Bermuda House of Assembly to Debate Cybersecurity Act 2024 Following Major Cyberattack

The Bermuda House of Assembly is preparing to debate the Cybersecurity Act 2024, a critical piece of legislation designed to enhance protections for the island's national information infrastructure. This move comes in the wake of a significant cyberattack in September 2023 that severely disrupted government services.

The proposed Cybersecurity Act 2024 aims to establish several key entities and protocols to safeguard Bermuda's critical information assets. Among its provisions are the creation of a Cybersecurity Advisory Board and a National Cybersecurity Unit. Additionally, the Act will establish a National Cybersecurity Incident Response Team to coordinate responses to future cyber threats.

In a bid to ensure ongoing vigilance, the Act mandates an annual review of the island's cybersecurity measures, with the first review scheduled to be completed by June 30, 2025. This continuous evaluation is intended to keep Bermuda's cybersecurity defenses robust and adaptive to emerging threats.

The need for such comprehensive legislation became glaringly apparent following the cyberattack in September 2023, which crippled government services and necessitated the shutdown of Bermuda's IT network. In response to this incident, a joint select committee comprising legislators from both parties was established on May 3 to investigate the attack and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.

The proposed Cybersecurity Act 2024 has significant implications for the protection of critical national infrastructure and the continuity of vital government services. If passed, it could serve as a model for other countries seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses, and its implementation could have far-reaching consequences for the prevention and response to cyberattacks.

The debate over the Cybersecurity Act 2024 will take place alongside discussions on other pressing issues, including affordable housing, child welfare, and the Personal Information Protection Act regime. These topics reflect the broad range of challenges that Bermuda's legislators are addressing as they work to ensure the island's security and well-being.

The Cybersecurity Act 2024 is part of a larger legislative effort to bolster Bermuda's defenses against cyber threats. Recently, the Senate passed the Computer Misuse Act 2024, further underscoring the government's commitment to strengthening its cybersecurity framework.

As Bermuda approaches the 2024 hurricane season, the national security minister is also expected to brief the House of Assembly on preparedness measures. This highlights the government's multifaceted approach to safeguarding the island, addressing both natural and cyber threats.

The upcoming debate on the Cybersecurity Act 2024 is a vital step in fortifying Bermuda's defenses against future cyberattacks. By establishing dedicated cybersecurity entities and ensuring regular assessments, the Act aims to protect the island's critical information infrastructure and maintain the continuity of vital government services.

Key Takeaways

• Bermuda's House of Assembly to debate Cybersecurity Act 2024 to enhance national info infrastructure protection.
• Act establishes Cybersecurity Advisory Board, National Cybersecurity Unit, and Incident Response Team.
• Annual review of cybersecurity measures mandated, with first review due by June 30, 2025.
• Cybersecurity Act 2024 aims to protect critical national infrastructure and government services.
• Act part of broader legislative effort to strengthen Bermuda's defenses against cyber threats.