New Zealand to Fold CERT NZ into NCSC

CERT NZ into NCSC
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July 30, 2023

New Zealand to Fold CERT NZ into NCSC – The New Zealand government has announced that it will be folding CERT NZ into the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This is a significant move that will see the NCSC become the country’s lead operational agency to defend against cyberattacks.

CERT NZ is currently responsible for providing incident response and advice to businesses and individuals in New Zealand. The NCSC is responsible for developing and implementing the government’s cybersecurity strategy. By folding CERT NZ into the NCSC, the government hopes to create a more streamlined and effective approach to cybersecurity.

..some experts have welcomed the move, arguing that it will make New Zealand’s cybersecurity posture stronger..

The decision to fold CERT NZ into the NCSC has been met with mixed reactions. Some experts have welcomed the move, arguing that it will make New Zealand’s cybersecurity posture stronger. Others have expressed concerns that the move will lead to a loss of expertise and resources.

Only time will tell whether the decision to fold CERT NZ into the NCSC will be a success. However, the move is a clear signal that the New Zealand government is committed to strengthening the country’s cybersecurity.

Benefits of Folding CERT NZ into the NCSC

There are a number of potential benefits to folding CERT NZ into the NCSC. These include:

  • Increased efficiency and effectiveness: By combining the resources and expertise of CERT NZ and the NCSC, the government can create a more streamlined and effective approach to cybersecurity.
  • Improved coordination: The NCSC will be able to better coordinate its efforts with other government agencies, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Ministry of Police.
  • Increased visibility: The NCSC will have a greater public profile, which will help to raise awareness of cybersecurity threats and best practices.

Challenges of Folding CERT NZ into the NCSC

There are also a number of potential challenges to folding CERT NZ into the NCSC. These include:

  • Loss of expertise: CERT NZ has a wealth of expertise in incident response and advice. If this expertise is not properly transferred to the NCSC, the government’s cybersecurity posture could be weakened.
  • Resource constraints: The NCSC is already facing resource constraints. If the government does not provide additional resources, the NCSC may not be able to effectively fulfill its new responsibilities.
  • Cultural challenges: CERT NZ and the NCSC have different cultures. If these cultures are not properly aligned, the merger could be difficult to implement.

the move is a clear signal that the New Zealand government is committed to strengthening the country’s cybersecurity.

The decision to fold CERT NZ into the NCSC is a significant one. There are both potential benefits and challenges to the move. Only time will tell whether the decision will be a success. However, the move is a clear signal that the New Zealand government is committed to strengthening the country’s cybersecurity.

What is CERT NZ? 

CERT NZ, or Computer Emergency Response Team New Zealand, is a government agency responsible for responding to cyber security incidents in New Zealand. They provide advice and assistance to businesses, organisations, and individuals who have been affected by a cyber security incident. They also work to raise awareness of cyber security threats and best practices.

CERT NZ was established in 2000 and is funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. They have a team of experienced cyber security professionals who are available 24/7 to help with any cyber security incident.

What is the NCSC?

The NCSC, or National Cyber Security Centre, is a government agency responsible for protecting New Zealand’s cyber security. They are part of the Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) and were established in 2017.

The NCSC’s mission is to protect Aotearoa New Zealand’s wellbeing and prosperity through trusted cyber security services. They do this by:

  • Detecting, disrupting, and deterring high-impact cyber threats
  • Delivering preventative advice and support to nationally significant organisations
  • Responding to national-level harm and advanced threats
  • Supporting regulatory regimes by providing risk assessments and advice to identify and manage risks to New Zealand’s security
  • Raising awareness of cyber security threats and best practices

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