By Leake Ileka
What if your company became the next headline due to a devastating cyberattack?
In Namibia, this is not just a hypothetical scenario; it’s a growing reality.
This year, the nation experienced an alarming rise in cyberattacks targeting multiple corporations, sparking a critical debate on social media about the safety of our personal data in the hands of the institutions we are meant to trust.
Recent high-profile incidents, such as the cyberattacks on Standard Bank Namibia and Telecom Namibia, have highlighted the vulnerabilities that both public and private organizations face. These data breaches not only compromise sensitive data but also lead to significant financial losses and reputational damage.
Current Challenges and the Need for a Stronger Response
There is much work to be done to address the rapid rise of cybercrime on a national level. The Computer and Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) plays a vital role in promoting compliance with international cybersecurity standards. However, while Namibia is in the process of developing comprehensive data protection guidelines, progress has been frustratingly slow, leaving businesses and individuals without clear frameworks or strategies to navigate an increasingly digital world.
This lack of robust legal infrastructure and precedent worsens the problem, making it challenging to hold cybercriminals accountable and leaving citizens vulnerable to significant risks.
The current national cybersecurity strategy, initiated in 2022, outlines plans for a secure cyberspace for Namibians and proposes measures to strengthen critical infrastructure amid rising cyberattacks. Despite the establishment of the Cyber Security Council (CSC) and the formation of the National Security and Cyber Incident Response Team (CSIRT) as part of a national cybersecurity plan, public information about the task force’s operations and effectiveness is limited.
Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to establish a legal framework include the Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) and Cybercrime Bill and Data Protection Bill drafts, which aim to enhance investigative powers and align with international standards.
However, until comprehensive laws are enacted, companies will remain vulnerable in an evolving digital economy where cyber threats are on the rise.
Finding Strategy Through Expertise and Proactive Measures: Altus ICT
There is a silver lining. Namibia boasts a growing pool of IT risk experts, legal compliance professionals, and tech advisors ready to guide corporations through this uncharted virtual landscape.
As an example, Altus ICT is a tech Namibian company dedicated to helping businesses tackle complex digital challenges with tailored solutions that mitigate risks and strengthen data protection. Cyber threat assessments are a foundational service, allowing organizations to identify data vulnerabilities within their systems before they can be exploited. By conducting thorough evaluations, Altus ICT helps clients understand their risk exposure and develop strategies to fortify their digital data defences.
Preventative cybersecurity strategies are essential not only for compliance with evolving global regulations but also for safeguarding business continuity and maintaining customer trust. This is particularly relevant for Namibian corporations, which are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks in an environment where comprehensive legal protections are still being developed.
What Namibian Businesses Can Learn from Target’s Recovery
A notable example of a company that successfully navigated the aftermath of a cyberattack is Target Corporation. In 2013, Target suffered a massive data breach that compromised the credit card information of approximately 40 million customers and personal information of another 70 million. The breach was attributed to malware installed on point-of-sale systems, highlighting vulnerabilities in their security protocols.
In response, Target took decisive action by overhauling its cybersecurity measures. The company invested U$200 million in enhanced security systems and technology, including advanced encryption and real-time monitoring capabilities. Additionally, Target implemented a new Chief Information Security Officer position to oversee cybersecurity initiatives and ensure compliance with industry standards.
The recovery process involved not only technical upgrades but also a commitment to transparency and customer communication. Target publicly acknowledged the breach, provided affected customers with credit monitoring services, and launched an extensive public relations campaign to rebuild trust. As a result of these efforts, Target was able to restore its reputation and regain customer confidence within a relatively short period.
Namibian corporations can learn from Target’s experience by recognising that investing in robust cybersecurity is a strategic necessity to protect data and maintain customer loyalty, while adopting transparent crisis communication strategies to foster trust and demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding client information.
As Namibia develops its cybersecurity framework, businesses must proactively align with international best practices, invest further in IT and partner with experienced digital solutions providers like Altus ICT for tailored solutions.
As a nation, we value the confidentiality and respect of our data. Namibian corporations, the call is clear: innovate your digital operations, build unshakable customer trust, and lead the charge in securing our data in an ever-evolving digital world.
*Leake Ileka is a Legal Compliance Officer at Altus ICT and a Chevening Alumnus.
For more information, connect with him and Altus ICT on LinkedIn.
