In the year 2021, the BtCIRT team observed the first edition of “National Cybersecurity Week” with the objective to cultivate a cyber safe culture among the Bhutanese while living with the pandemic. In 2022, the second edition of the “National Cybersecurity Week” was observed. However, in October 2023, the team took a step further by observing a month long “National Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023” and conducting various programmes to ensure that every citizen of Bhutan citizen is aware and have a basic understanding on the prevalent cyberthreats. Similarly, in 2024, we will be observing the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, with a month long activities aligning with the theme “Educate, Empower, Secure: Building a Cyber-safe Bhutan“.
October 1: Phishing Simulation
On October 1st, a phishing email was sent to all GovTech officials. The exercise aimed to test the resilience against phishing attacks and help remain vigilant in identifying potential threats. It highlights our vulnerability to phishing attacks, and we encourage everyone to learn more about staying safe online.
October 4: Cyber Hygiene Workshop for GovTech Officials
On October 4th, a Cyber Hygiene Workshop was conducted for GovTech Officials. The program had individuals interested in refreshing their cyber hygiene knowledge and skills to better protect their online presence. The goal of cyber hygiene is to ensure the security of sensitive data and enhance an organization’s ability to recover in the event of a successful cyberattack. The session is designed to equip participants with fundamental knowledge and skills to ensure a smooth transition into your role from day one. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the pivotal role everyone plays in safeguarding IT systems and Bhutan’s broader digital infrastructure by identifying and mitigating common cyber threats, securing digital presence and maintaining basic hygiene for administrators.
October 9-11: Cybersecurity Seminar
On October 9th, BtCIRT, in collaboration with the Czech Embassy in New Delhi, the National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NUKIB) of the Czech Republic, and the Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic in Thimphu, launched a three-day cybersecurity seminar in Thimphu, Bhutan. The event is a key component of our Cybersecurity Awareness Month initiatives, aiming to gain valuable insights into effective cybersecurity strategies and legal frameworks.
The seminar will delve into Czechia’s experience in developing its cybersecurity strategy and legislative framework, explore policy challenges, and discuss methods to attract and foster cybersecurity talent.
October 16: Cyber Hygiene Refresher Course
The BtCIRT team organized an online Cyber Hygiene refresher course for GovTech Officials. The self-paced course aims to enhance employee awareness about essential cyber hygiene practices for the workplace. The refresher course will provide valuable insights on identifying potential threats and implementing effective preventative measures.
October 22-24: Cybersecurity Workshop
BtCIRT, Cybersecurity Division has been observing the month of October as the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. As a part of this initiative, in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Network Information Center (APNIC), the division is conducting Cybersecurity Workshop with participants from various sectors.
The details on the workshop can be found at https://academy.apnic.net/en/events?id=a0BOc000000aEUHMA2 .
October 25: Cybersecurity Conference
BtCIRT will host a one-day conference at Hotel Migmar on 25 October 2024. The event will feature a diverse lineup of international and Bhutanese speakers who will address a broad spectrum of timely and relevant cybersecurity topics, making it suitable for not only ICT professionals but also a wider audience. The conference will also be broadcasted via Zoom to accommodate online participants from different parts of our country. Read more
October 29: Open Awareness
The BtCIRT team will organize an Open Awareness Program on cybersecurity hygiene, on the 29th of October in Thimphu.
It is recently observed that many people are falling victim to OTP sharing and losing money through scams. Therefore, the program is designed to educate the general public on cyber hygiene and prevalent threats such as phishing and scams. The program is targeted to be conducted at the following locations: Kaja Throm and Chang Yul Park in Thimphu as well as in the financial institutions.
October 30: Awareness to Local Government Officials
One of the key initiatives this year is engaging local government (LG) officials in our awareness program. To address the growing prevalence of cybercrime in rural areas, it is important to prioritize awareness sessions on cybersecurity best practices for officials from local governments. By equipping officials with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate cyber threats, they can better protect both themselves and their constituents/community.
The session will be conducted online and will conclude with an engaging quiz to assess participants’ understanding and reinforce key cybersecurity concepts.