As a Pacific Island nation, Tuvalu recognizes the growing importance of cyber security in an increasingly digital world. Despite being one of the smallest and most remote countries, we are not immune to the dangers posed by cyber threats, which continue to evolve and target vulnerable systems globally. The Government of Tuvalu is committed to enhancing our cyber resilience, ensuring the protection of our critical infrastructure, and safeguarding the privacy of our citizens.
The Cyber Security Landscape in Tuvalu
Tuvalu’s reliance on digital technologies has been accelerating, particularly as we modernize our public services, communication networks, and educational systems. However, our geographical isolation, coupled with limited technical expertise and infrastructure, makes us particularly susceptible to cyber risks. The Tuvalu Cyber Risks Analysis reveals several key areas where urgent action is needed:
- Limited Cyber Infrastructure: Tuvalu’s cyber infrastructure is underdeveloped, with insufficient security measures in place to protect against malicious activities such as hacking, data breaches, and cyber espionage.
- Vulnerable Public Sector Systems: Government institutions, which store and process sensitive information, lack robust cyber defenses, making them prime targets for cyber attacks.
- Low Cyber Security Awareness: There is a significant gap in understanding cyber risks at both the governmental and community levels. This lack of awareness exacerbates the potential impact of cyber incidents.
- Dependence on External Support: Tuvalu relies heavily on international partners and regional organizations for cyber security expertise and technical support. This dependence highlights the need for building local capacity to manage and mitigate cyber threats effectively.
Strategic Collaborations
Tuvalu is committed to addressing cyber risks through international and regional partnerships that provide access to expertise, best practices, and resources. Notable collaborations include:
- Pacific Cyber Security Operators Network (PaCSON): As a member of PaCSON, Tuvalu benefits from shared threat intelligence, regional collaboration, and capacity-building efforts that enhance our ability to detect, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats. PaCSON serves as an essential platform for Pacific Island nations to work together and improve collective cyber resilience.
- Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC): In partnership with ACSC, Tuvalu has received vital technical assistance and support in improving cyber security defenses. ACSC’s guidance has been instrumental in strengthening our national cyber security framework and response capabilities.
- Oceania Cyber Security Centre (OCSC) – CMM Assessment: The Cybersecurity Capacity Maturity Model for Nations (CMM) assessment conducted by OCSC has provided Tuvalu with key recommendations to enhance its cyber security posture. The assessment identified priority areas for improvement, including governance frameworks, incident response capabilities, and public-private sector collaboration. Tuvalu is in the process of implementing these recommendations to bolster our cyber maturity.
Let’s all Cyber Up
for a Cyber Smart Pacific.
Just like in the ocean, you can encounter unknowns in the online environment. So let’s reduce the risk – cyber up with these six simple steps to help be secure online.
Upsize Password
Upgrade 2FA
Update Software
Uphold Privacy
Upscale Data
Uplift Data
Upsize your passwords so they’re long, strong and hard to crack.
Long, strong and unique passwords are much harder for attackers to crack.Try creating a passphrase that’s a string of four or more words, this is much stronger than a random mix of letters, numbers and symbols.
Upgrade to two-factor authentication so your online accounts have double protection.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online accounts by turning it on in privacy settings. When you next log in you’ll use a second step such as your thumbprint, facial ID or one time code from an app to verify it’s really you.
Update your apps and software to keep bugs and viruses out.
As well as providing new features, updates also fix security risks that attackers can use to gain access to your personal information. Ensure automatic updates are enabled on all your devices to keep yourself secure.
Uphold your privacy to keep your personal information secure.
Before you share any personal information online, check your social media settings to ensure they are switched to ‘Friends only’ and that any
requests for personal information are legitimate.
Upscale your data and systems backup and testing.
Implementing and testing backups helps to minimise downtime and data loss and ensure business continuity in the event of a security breach or data loss.
Uplift your data security to protect against unauthorised access
Security measures like firewalls and encryption protect your business from cyber threats and unauthorised access. Make sure you regularly review and update your security measures and educate your staff about cyber awareness
Welcome to Get Safe Online Tuvalu
Get Safe Online in Tuvalu: A Comprehensive Resource for Online Safety
Get Safe Online in Tuvalu is a trusted resource designed to help individuals, businesses, and communities protect themselves from the growing risks of online threats. Offering free, impartial, and expert guidance, this platform provides practical advice to safeguard your personal and financial information, devices, and online interactions.
Whether you are looking to protect your family from cyber dangers, secure your business against fraud and data breaches, or ensure the safety of your workplace’s digital environment, Get Safe Online delivers accessible, easy-to-understand resources tailored to the unique challenges of Tuvalu. From tips on securing passwords and devices to advice on managing online scams, the service empowers you to take control of your online security with confidence.
By leveraging expert insights and practical strategies, Get Safe Online in Tuvalu helps you create a safer digital experience for yourself, your loved ones, and your business.
Who we are
Get Safe Online: Leading the Way in Online Safety Advice
Get Safe Online is a UK-based organisation and the premier source of unbiased, reliable, and easy-to-understand information on online safety. We offer authoritative, practical advice designed to help individuals and businesses navigate the digital world securely.
Our expert team, comprising online safety and security professionals, provides clear, actionable guidance on a wide range of topics, from protecting personal information and securing devices to preventing cybercrime and safeguarding business operations. All our resources are free to use, empowering you to make informed decisions and protect yourself, your family, your finances, and your workplace from the increasing risks of online threats.
Whether you’re looking to stay safe from scams, strengthen your privacy settings, or ensure your business is protected from cyberattacks, Get Safe Online is your trusted partner for navigating the complexities of online security with confidence.