ICASA publishes a Discussion Document for public comment

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa has published a Discussion Document to solicit written submissions in respect of its role and responsibilities in the regulation of cybersecurity.

This is perpetuated by the proliferation of internet interconnections and increased data services have led to a significant growth of cyber attack incidents often with disastrous consequences.

This does not only affect the economic front but an adverse effect can be seen in government and its people.

"The evolution of technology is not taking place in an unregulated environment however, telecommunication regulators have been existing to regulate the technical, economic and social uses of Internet services. In this respect, the technology evolution in the telecommunication sector pushes for a need to determine the role of the regulators," says ICASA Councillor, Palesa Kadi.

The Discussion Document examines the role of various ICT regulators in the governance of cybersecurity in their respective countries. The purpose of this process is to benchmark or compare the role of these regulators to ICASA's role and to consult on whether it is necessary for ICASA to adopt similar responsibilities taking into account its mandate.

With the role that ICASA plays in the ICT environment, it has found itself well positioned in terms of its mandate, resources and experience to deal with current and emerging cybersecurity challenges. Therefore, ICASA intends to adopt a flexible and adaptive approach to its cybersecurity efforts as threats to cybersecurity are constantly evolving.

"With the many players in the ICT environment, the development of a coherent mechanism has been regarded as an urgent requirement in the cybersecurity space", concludes Kadi.

Interested stakeholders have until 30 November 2018 to make their written submissions on the Discussion Document, subsequent to which ICASA may hold public hearings.