QATAR NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY STRATEGY 2. THE IMPORTANCE OF CYBER SECURITY TO QATAR ICT systems provide government, businesses, institutions, and individuals with access to the information and knowledge needed to transform Qatar into a more advanced country by 2030.2 Critical sectors in Qatar include but are not limited to finance, energy, electricity and water, government, and healthcare, and they are increasingly adopting the most modern digital applications. Doing so enables the delivery of high-quality, efficient, and effective services to customers in Qatar and around the world. These technologies will allow Qatar to sustain economic growth and development, provide a higher standard of living for future generations, create significant employment opportunities, and drive innovation and entrepreneurship. Qatar’s significant investment in technology has positioned the country as a regional leader. Qatar is ranked 23rd among 148 countries in the 2014 World Economic Forum’s Networked Readiness Index.3 Internet penetration is also well above the world average at 88 percent.4 Assuring the safety and security of broadband services is essential to increasing broadband penetration and usage, and subsequently, increasing confidence in online activities.5 In addition, Cyber Safety and Security is one of three key programs in the National ICT Plan KEY INDICATORS OF 2015: Advancing the Digital Agenda. This plan ICT USE IN QATAR6 is essential to: (1) improve connectivity; and (2) create an economy based on advanced technol§§In 2012, 92% of households in the ogy solutions and services that will enrich society mainstream population had a computer, and distinguish Qatar as a regional leader in while 87% of mainstream individuals had a Arab-originated digital content. computer. Qatar has invested billions to improve the country’s physical infrastructure. Enhancements include expanding and modernizing Doha’s International Airport, building a new seaport, upgrading road infrastructure, and installing a new high-speed rail and metro system. In addition, Qatar is making sizeable infrastructure investments to host the 2022 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup, including technology investments to provide new digital services for visitors and international viewers. These infrastructure enhancements will rely heavily on innovative and sophisticated ICT, presenting not only great opportunities for continued economic growth and expansion, but also opportunities to address cyber security throughout the project lifecycle. §§In 2012, Internet penetration for mainstream individuals was approximately 88%. §§In 2012, Qatar’s mobile penetration was approximately 100%—one of the highest penetration rates in the world. §§In 2012, 74% of companies in Qatar used computers, including desktops, laptops, and newer tablet technologies; an increase from 64% in 2008. §§In 2012, 66% of businesses in Qatar used the Internet; an increase from 51% in 2008. §§The number of businesses with an ICT security policy increased from 37% in 2010 to 61% in 2012. §§In 2012, skilled ICT professionals represented approximately 2% of Qatar’s total workforce. 2.1 Threats Increased ICT use and broadband connectivity bring enormous benefits to government, businesses, institutions, and individuals. However, vulnerabilities often accompany these benefits. As a key provider of clean fuel, a home to global companies, an early adopter of digital technologies, and a leader in regional affairs, Qatar is an attractive target for malicious actors who seek to cause disruption and destruction. 3