Our finance sector is trusted with huge amounts of personal data: home and email addresses; phone numbers; government issued ID details; employment details; and of course banking and financial information. The high value of this data makes this sector an attractive target for cybercriminals. 

Additionally, in recent years there has been a huge increase in the number and value of non-cash (electronic) transfers and payments, driven in many parts of the world by increasing internet access and mobile phone usage. However, this technological shift with the advances in internet banking and mobile payment apps has increased the sector’s vulnerability to cybercrime. Therefore the sector needs to be at the forefront of cybersecurity awareness, upskilling and communication with their customers, employees and wider society.

Like all sectors of the economy, the financial services industry needs more qualified cybersecurity professionals. The new National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) 2021 names Banking / Finance and Insurance as one of the identified sectors for Critical National Information Infrastructure protection. The NCPS is clear that Government commits to working closely with the private sector organisations to improve coordination and security, but that responsibility also lies directly with those organisations.

The NCPS also recognises the importance of a safe and trusted online environment and commits to working with stakeholders to work towards this in order to benefit the national economy. Government will work with sector representatives, communities and regulatory bodies to develop policies and processes to this effect.

Government will also lead the way in national cybersecurity human resources development and skills acquisition to ensure there are increased numbers of suitably qualified cybersecurity professionals seeking employment.

Click the buttons below to download tools and guidance that haVE been developed specifically for the FINANCE AND CAPITAL MARKETS SECTOR. Use this information to keep you organisation, staff AND CUSTOMERS safe from cybercrime.

WE WILL CONTINUE TO UPDATE THIS guidance so keep checking this page to ensure you are always up to date.