Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
150. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to outline the efforts to progress plans to deal with the issue of sophisticated spyware (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37135/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications has no role in relation to the investigation or prosecution of offences relating to the use of spyware technology, or in relation to the manufacture, distribution or export licensing of such technologies by companies registered in Ireland.
It is important to highlight that responsibility for securing data and networks rests with the owners of networks. The role of the National Cyber Security Centre is to provide advice and guidance to public sector bodies, operators of critical national infrastructure and other constituents to support them to identify and mitigate risks to their networks and devices. Earlier this year the NCSC distributed advice to public service bodies on Mobile Device Management which considered the risk of spyware and outlined ways for organisations to mitigate this risk. The NCSC partners with the Garda Cyber Crime Bureau to prepare and distribute advice to the general public, including an annual campaign as part European Cyber Security Month in October, which includes advice on security for mobile devices.
In addition, Part 2 of the Communications Regulation and Digital Hub Development Agency (Amendment) Act 2023 makes further specific provision for the security of telecommunications networks, including stronger obligations on network operators under Section 6, and the provision for the Minister to issue specific guidelines under Section 7. Consultation on these guidelines has taken place and further engagement with industry will take place shortly.
