Security issues in relation to public communications networks provided by eircom and other service providers are matters in the first instance for the service providers who are regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
A function of ComReg is the investigation of complaints from consumers in relation to the supply of, and access to, electronic communications networks, electronic communications services and associated facilities.
ComReg also has an objective to promote the interests of users of these services within the European Community.ComReg are required to take all reasonable measures which are aimed at achieving this objective including, inter alia, ensuring that the integrity and security of public communications networks are maintained.
My Department has been working with industry to launch a public awareness campaign in relation to Information Communications Technology (ICT) in the next few months. This will be an all Ireland campaign advising end users how to mitigate security risks when using computers and the Internet.