NEW legislation designed to help Jersey defend against cyber attacks has been put out for consultation over the next two weeks.
Interested Islanders, organisations and stakeholders are being asked to give their feedback on a draft law outlining several changes relating to Jersey’s Cyber Security Centre, which was established by the Council of Ministers in 2021 and currently operates within the Economy Department.
Under the new law, the JCSC would be established as an independent advisory and emergency response body operating at arm’s length from regulators, law enforcement officers and government.
It would also become a grant-funded body and be required to produce an annual report and strategic plan, available to the public.
Additionally, the law would require Operators of Essential Services to take appropriate steps to improve and secure their cyber security, and notify their customers and JCSC if they experience a significant cyber incident.
An OES is defined as “any service which is essential for the infrastructure of Jersey or the maintenance of critical societal or economic activities in Jersey”.
JCSC director Matt Palmer said: “Over the last year, we have worked with the Legislative Drafting Office to develop a law that provides the appropriate balance of autonomy and accountability.”
He continued: “I would welcome any organisations or individuals who work – or are interested – in this area to respond to the consultation before Tuesday 19 March.”
The consultation can be found on the gov.je website.
