Guernsey to get its own Cyber Security Centre

The operation will be run by its Jersey counterpart but with a base in Guernsey.

The States say that a new Cyber Security Centre will improve the Bailiwick's resilience to cyber-attacks.

Businesses, islanders, and the general economy are vulnerable to cyberattacks, online fraud, and ransomware; therefore, additional services will be able to provide protections that are currently lacking in Guernsey.

Work is being done in close collaboration with the government to create a range of services to prepare, protect, and defend the Bailiwick.

Jersey Cyber Security Centre (JCSC) was awarded the contract for the project, following a tender process.

It means the two Bailiwicks will be working together, with a team based in Guernsey, following the direction from the JCSC.

Jersey Cyber Security Centre, St Helier

The main priorities for the cyber security centre are to:

• Provide local cybersecurity guidance for individuals, businesses and organisations,
• Monitor vulnerabilities in Guernsey public networks,
• Support organisations to address security gaps,
• Give advice and coordination support in the event of a cyber incident,
• Provide education, training and awareness to help islanders improve their cybersecurity,
• Run incident response exercises.

Matt Palmer, Director, Jersey Cyber Security Centre, says we are pleased to be working closely with the States of Guernsey and the Island community to better protect the Bailiwick.

"We know that cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent and more severe, and this partnership will minimise the effect of these attacks on Islanders."

A statement from the Committee for Home Affairs says the Committee is pleased to be contracting with the Jersey Cyber Security Centre to create a dedicated cyber security centre here in Guernsey.

"This will enable the Bailiwick to benefit from the experience of the JCSC, which was set up in 2021. This has 2 been a significant piece of work, and we are pleased to see it start to come to fruition.

"This will provide a focus for cyber security advice and guidance, help to build and improve resilience and is good news for the people of Guernsey.

"This is especially important given how cyber-attacks can impact individuals, as has become evident following the recent spate of attacks on UK High Street retailers, which has had a local impact on deliveries to our stores."