Modern societies have a growing dependency on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) that are globally networked. However, this growing dependency comes with major emerging potential threats to network and information security and mainly to the society and its members. The growing abuse of electronic networks for criminal purposes, adversely affect the integrity of critical national information infrastructures as well as private personal information and children safety.

Cybersecurity is now considered a major part of any national security policy, and it is well-known that decision makers in the US, the EU, Russia, China, India and other nations, are identifying cyberdefense / cybersecurity matters as having number one priority in their national defense strategies. In addition, more than 130 countries worldwide have declared dedicated cyberwar divisions and scenarios within their national security teams. All these efforts are being added to the traditional security efforts to combat cybercrimes, cyber frauds and other faces of Cyber threats.

In other words, cybersecurity consists in a collection of legal and regulatory frameworks, organizational structures, work procedures, as well as technical and technological means, representing public – private, local and international joint efforts that focus on the purpose of securing the nation’s cyber space. The emphasis on ensuring the availability of the information systems and strengthening the confidentiality and protect privacy of personal data, and taking all necessary measures to protect Citizens and Consumers against risks in Cyberspace.

The ITU recommendations and international best practices show that cybersecurity rely on a complex mix of technological, political, social, and cultural challenges.

More specifically, a valid national cybersecurity strategy should be built on the following 5 pillars:

1. Developing a national strategy for cybersecurity and Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP)
2. Establishing national Government–Industry Collaboration
3. Deterring cybercrime
4. Creating National Incident Management Capabilities
5. Promoting a national culture of cybersecurity

The starting point of a national cybersecurity is the development of national policy to raise awareness about cybersecurity issues and the need for national actions and international cooperation. The second step represents the development of a national plan to enhance cybersecurity in order to reduce the risks and effects of both cyber and physical disruptions and involves the participation in international and regional efforts to promote national prevention of, preparation for, response to, and recovery from, cyber incidents.