CSA consults public on proposed amendments to Cybersecurity Bill

THE Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) is seeking public feedback on the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill as part of its review of the Cybersecurity Act.

A month-long public consultation was launched on Dec 15 and will end on Jan 15, 2024.

The scope of the consultation will include updating existing laws related to protecting critical information infrastructure, and to maintain a high standard of protection for these systems so that Singapore’s essential systems are not disrupted by cyberthreats.

CSA also proposed that regulatory oversight by the commissioner of Cybersecurity be extended to nationally important computer systems that face heightened risks during crucial periods, as well as entities of special cybersecurity interest.

This is because breaches of such organisations would have “detrimental implications” for the defence, foreign relations, economy, public health, public safety, or public order of Singapore, said CSA.

Regulations should also be updated to provide the commissioner with “greater situational awareness” for early and timely information on cybersecurity vulnerabilities, threats and incidents affecting critical information infrastructures along with other systems and infrastructures.

Finally, CSA proposes requiring entities regulated under the Cybersecurity Act to adhere to cybersecurity standards of practice, report cybersecurity incidents to CSA, and comply with directions issued by the Commissioner.

This is to ensure the cybersecurity of specific computer systems under the charge of such entities.

The Cybersecurity Act 2018 sets out the legal framework for the oversight and maintenance of national cybersecurity in Singapore.

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Highlighting cybersecurity as “more critical than ever”, CSA said the amendment bill would “ensure that Singapore’s cybersecurity laws remain fit for purpose, and can address the emerging challenges in cyberspace”.

David Koh, commissioner of cybersecurity and chief executive of CSA, said the update is “important to ensure that the necessary safeguards are put in place for the digital infrastructure and services” used in Singapore.

“This way, Singaporeans and businesses can embrace digitalisation with confidence, knowing that they are safe and secure in the digital domain,” he added.