The development of information technology has helped to make government work technology-friendly. Transparency and convenience have increased when government services and records are conducted in digital medium. However, recent incidents of hacking on government websites of Nepal have exposed the weakness of the security arrangements in this area.
The hacking of the Meteorological Department's site is the latest example of this. According to experts, this is the main reason for easy access by hackers. On the hacked site, hacking groups have been seen trying to steal sensitive records (data) and trick people through unauthorized links. Suspects have arisen that not only the government website, but also the safety and privacy of ordinary citizens will be threatened by such incidents.
Such incidents have started raising questions about the efficiency of the investment and structure of the public bodies in information technology. Problems such as lack of regular security testing, software that is not updated or cannot be done, and dependence on manpower with limited knowledge of technology seem to increase such risks. On the other hand, although various policies have been made to promote information technology, their effective implementation is still challenging.
When there is a weakness in the security of the government website, there is a danger of having serious consequences in the country's digital infrastructure as well as the structure. There is also the risk that fraud and other financial crimes may increase through access to sensitive government information or records. There is a possibility that such incidents may have a negative impact on the international image of Nepal.
Information technology employees in government agencies should be provided with state-of-the-art cyber security training. It seems necessary to regularize the risk identification and weakness investigation test system for the process of detecting potential risks and weaknesses in the system, network or software of government websites, i.e. 'vulnerability scanning'. Not only that, a policy should be implemented to give severe punishment to those involved in cyber crimes. There should be no delay in forming a special cyber security unit to prevent the growing cyber attack on the government machinery as well as to minimize its impact.
If government structures are to be made more secure and reliable in the digital age, the government must now make cyber security a top priority. Correct utilization of government budget, policy clarity and firmness in implementation seem necessary to solve the growing challenge of cyber security.
If Nepal is to be transformed into the digital era, there is a need for adequate investment in this area to strengthen its foundations. Therefore, increasing the reliability and effectiveness of government websites by maintaining a balance between the convenience provided by technology and the challenges of increasing cyber security is a shared responsibility of the government, expert groups in this field and civil society.
– Tekendra Adhikari, Biratnagar
