Vice Speaker calls for resources to build defense against cyber threats

Vice Speaker Tina Muna Barnes sent a letter and resolution to the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures, hoping to improve cybersecurity. 

Barnes raised the growing issue of cyberattacks in the region and the importance of Guam’s defense as the Tip of the Spear. 

Following a cyberattack report from the Micronesian Islands Forum, Barnes further emphasized the importance of our cyber defenses and why it needs to be addressed.

“Currently, despite efforts to plan and marshal resources, we lack the robust capacity in equipment, personnel, or services to adequately defend against state-sponsored cyber threats,” said Vice Speaker Barnes. 

She said it is necessary that Guam receives the highest level of protection as approximately 90% of all global internet traffic flows through the island. 

The resolution calls for the latest technological systems to improve efficiency, data protection software to be implemented, and a workgroup to safeguard unwanted intrusions.