Canberra, Australia. 2010.6.7 - The Australian Government has launched National Cyber Security Awareness Week with a public initiative to encourage sensible behaviour and increased confidence in online practices and an icode for ISPs.
 

 
National Cyber Security Awareness Week (6–11 June 2010), is an annual initiative of the Australian Government, managed by the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. It is held in partnership with state & territory governments, industry (including all the major banks), and community and consumer groups. It is designed to raise awareness among Australians of cyber security risks and simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online.
 
Stay Smart Online - Six easy tips for better online security:

1. Install security software and update it regularly
2. Turn on automatic updates so that all your software receives the latest fixes
3. Get a stronger password and change it at least twice a year
4. Stop and think before you click on links or email attachments
5. Stop and think before you share any personal or financial information, about yourself or your friends and family
6. Know what your children are doing online. Make sure they know to stay safe and encourage them to report anything suspicious

icode
 
On 6 June, the Internet Industry Association (IIA) launched a voluntary code of practice for Australian Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to improve cybersecurity for all consumers.
 
In conjunction with the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy and the Attorney-General's Department, the IIA developed a new ISP cyber security code of practice known as the icode. The new code recognises that both ISPs and consumers can and must share responsibility for minimising the risks inherent in using the internet.
 
IIA chief executive, Peter Coroneos, stated "The icode promotes a culture of cybersecurity within Australian ISPs and their customers. The increasing threat of zombied computers (computers which have been essentially hijacked), presents a real risk to users. Identity theft, fraud, and increases in spam are all possible consequences of compromised computers."
 
The icode contains four main elements:

• a notification/management system for compromised computers
• a standardised information resource for end users
• a comprehensive resource for ISPs to access the latest threat information
• a reporting mechanism in cases of extreme threat back to CERT Australia to facilitate a national high level view of attack status

Download the icode PDF
 
Since its' inception in 1996, Digital Tsunami has made a priority of implementing safe practices, utilising secure and robust Data Centres, delivering secure solutions and consulting to clients and suppliers on secure data management.
 
Digital Tsunami's capabilities encompass all aspects of marketing communications solutions including: branding, digital, eStrategy, photography, print and video for global brands, MNCs and innovative SMEs through offices in Australia and China.