NTA Developing a Response Team ‘CERT’ Against Cyber-Attacks

NTA will soon develop CERT, a response team to nullify cyber-attacks in telecom and ICT companies of Nepal.

The Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) will protect Nepal’s ICT and telecom systems from various malicious attacks and threats. This will in turn “help and build trust and confidence of users towards using ICT technology and services.”

Seeking applications to develop the detailed report (DPR) for the Response team, telecom authority NTA has announced invitations for Expression of Interest (EoI) from the interested consultants/firms.

Consulting firms shall submit their EoI online through the e-GP system www.bolpatra.gov.np/egp EGP only on or before 31-01-2022.

NTA’s CERT is in compliance with its “Cyber Security Byelaw, 2020” that has gained its exercising power by Section 62 of the Telecommunication Act, 2053 (1997).

As usual, NTA will select the consultant on Qualification 50.0 %, Experience 40.0 %, and Capacity 10.0 %. The minimum score to pass the initial EoI assessment is 60. The firm will be selected as per the “Quality and Cost Based Selection” (QCBS) method.

The main objective of the firm will be to prepare a DPR for the “Establishment of Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) for Telecom/ICT/ICT industry”.

Related: NTA to Develop a Cyber Security System, Calls for a Bid

The Consultant’s Scope for NTA’s CERT Report:

Once chosen, the consultant will study the existing laws, bylaws, policies, and frameworks which are in place for telecom/ICT in Nepal. It shall report the status of cyber security, major cases of cyber-attacks to the regulator.

Likewise, the consultant will also run three types of research to CERT/CIRT for each of developing and developed countries. NTA demands that this study include the countries’ “vision, mission, objective & strategy” for the project. Besides, they should include human resources map, the primary scope of CERT, detailed overview of major hardware & software in use among others.

The company shall also engage in meetings with officials from ministries and stakeholders in coordination with NTA. It should also study the CERT’s impact on economic, and social areas and its contribution to the cyber security efficacy.

NTA demands the company shall also identify risks associated with running NTA-CERT and seek proper mitigation measures.

Also read: NTA to Study Radiation Effect from Cell Towers

Nepal’s Cyberspace Under Growing Attacks

Cyberspace is one of the most favorite areas for hackers around the world. Whether at the state level or by individuals or sinister groups, their attacks into cyberspace leave citizens’ user data and properties at risk. And recently, cases of system infiltration have increased in Nepal too.

Nepal’s ICT sector is booming. But it is also facing issues relating to cyber security. Government websites, banks/FIs, and telecom operators have fallen victim to them.  

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NTA’s CERT will work s a firewall against the incoming cyber-attacks and forfeit Nepal’s telecom/ICT sectors.

How safe do you think is Nepal’s cyberspace in the wake of recent news of hacks, and dubious scenarios in prominent companies? Do you think the government should do more to protect Nepali companies? Do provide your feedback in our comments below.