EXECUTIVE SUMMARY An increased dependence on ICTs has brought enormous benefits to society; and the internet has become a driving force for productivity and development for national economies. Currently, innovative transformations are happening in many organizations especially in the area of moving business operations and services online. By extension, the pervasive use of mobile applications, fintech solutions and automation have also impacted positively on businesses around the world. This goes to suggests that as long as our critical infrastructure continues to connect to computers and information networks, we will inevitably continue to rely on them to deliver services. In recent years, Cybersecurity is increasing its significance due to the overwhelming use of devices which require the use of internet. This development has implications for criminal exploitation of information systems. In an attempt to address the cybercrime challenge and continue to remain proactive in national response, the Gambia government has embarked on measures designed to facilitate ICT integration into all sectors of Gambian economy. For this to be realized, safety and security should be central in national development initiatives. The formulation of the draft Gambia Cyber Security Strategy and Action plan 2016 is a positive step and a long-term measure for protecting the country from cyber related security risks. The initiative ushered in a call for the development of a national cyber security policy and strategic Action plan. This will ultimately pave the way for full implementation of the objectives and goals set in the policy. Page 5 of 112 GAMBIA NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN 2020-2024

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