Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Internet providers on board for e-security
Representatives from Australian Internet Service Providers (ISPs) met today in Sydney to begin developing an e-security Code of Practice.
"Our growing reliance on broadband infrastructure and online services means we have a shared responsibility to ensure their security," the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, said today.
"I welcome the industry’s move to develop a Code of Practice which will help provide a more secure online environment for the whole of the Australian community."
"Internet Service Providers (ISPs) sit at the gateway to the internet. They are uniquely placed to help create a security culture among Australian internet users by ensuring their customers are aware of the simple things they can do to protect themselves online."
"Today marks an important first step for ISPs, meeting to start a wide consultative process to develop the ISP E-security Code of Practice."
Senator Conroy announced the consultation today as part of National E-security Awareness Week, which aims to increase awareness about the simple things people can do to improve their online security.
"Increasingly sophisticated internet-based attacks can leave small businesses and individuals vulnerable to financial theft or loss of personal information," Senator Conroy said.
"Being more secure online can be as simple as getting a better, stronger password and updating it twice a year. People should look out for e-security events this week and visit www.staysmartonline.gov.au for more tips and information."
An ISP Code of Practice was recommended by the 2008 National E-security Review and aims for a consistent approach for ISPs to inform, educate and protect customers. The Code will be developed in partnership with industry by the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
Participating ISPs will be required to provide generic plain language information to clients on e-security risks and simple steps they can take to help protect themselves online. ISPs will also be required to seek data from sources such as ACMA’s Australian Internet Security Initiative to identify compromised computers and help computer owners to address problems.
More information on e-security and National E-security Awareness Week is available at www.staysmartonline.gov.au.
Date: 10 June 2009
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457
