Quad Launches Public Campaign To Improve Cyber Security: White House

The Quad, a plurilateral framework made up of India, Australia, Japan and the United States, has announced the launch of a public campaign to improve cyber security in these four countries.

The White House announced the “Quad Cyber Challenge,” in which Internet users from the Indo-Pacific and beyond are invited to participate and pledge to practise safe and responsible cyber habits.

According to a press release, the initiative reflects the Quad's ongoing efforts to raise cyber security awareness and action among people, as well as to foster a more secure and resilient cyber ecosystem that benefits economies and users worldwide.

“We collaborated with our Quad partners to launch the cyber challenge in order to advance cyber security across our nations. We are asking people and businesses to join us in taking simple steps to protect themselves and their customers,” according to US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.

Cybercrime and other malicious cyber threats can cost trillions of dollars each year and compromise sensitive and personal data, according to the release.

Many cyberattacks can be avoided with simple preventive measures, according to the report, which adds that Internet users and providers can work together to significantly improve cybersecurity and cyber safety.

These steps include installing security updates on a regular basis, enabling enhanced identity checks through multi-factor authentication, employing stronger and frequently changing passwords, and understanding how to identify common online scams such as phishing.

“The Challenge provides resources, such as basic cybersecurity information and training, for all users, from corporations to educational institutions, small businesses, and individuals ranging from grade school students to the elderly,” the White House said.

“The Quad partners are working to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to make informed decisions while using smart devices and going online. Discover what you and your organisation can do to promote a more safe, secure and resilient cyberspace so that we can all be better protected from cyber threats,” the statement said.