BY SA’AH SIONA IKEI
The recent Capacity Building Workshop on Understanding Cybercrime for Effective Reporting, co-organized by Cameroon's National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (ANTIC), brought into sharp focus the pressing issues surrounding cybercrime that journalists must contend with. Speakers at the opening ceremony underscored the media's critical role in shaping public awareness and opinion on this growing threat, emphasizing the urgency for journalists to be equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to report on cybercrime effectively.
Representative of ANTIC GM, Ngwainbi Percy Afuhmbom and the President of Dawn Association, Tricia Oben, speaking to the press
Representing the Director General of ANTIC, Mr. Ngwainbi Afuh Percy emphasized the transformative impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on modern life. "ICT has become an integral part of our lives, transforming how we communicate, conduct business and interact with the world around us," he stated. However, this digital revolution has also given rise to a new breed of criminal activity.
"Nowadays, cybercrime has emerged as one of the newest and most challenging forms of delinquency due to its complexity and ability to mutate coupled with the supposed anonymity offered by the cyberspace," Mr. Ngwainbi warned. He cited various cybercrime trends plaguing Cameroon, including scamming, phishing, identity theft, web defacement, and skimming - collectively causing billions in losses.
Mr. Ngwainbi further emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Cybercrime has become a growing concern in Cameroon, with perpetrators exploiting the anonymity of the digital realm to carry out a wide range of illicit activities. The impact on individuals, businesses, and the overall economy has been severe, underscoring the critical need for proactive measures to combat this threat."
As he put it, "by training journalists to recognize, report, and safeguard against cyber threats, we are building a stronger, more resilient media landscape that can effectively inform and educate the public".
Group photo of participants
"This is just the beginning of a long-term, collaborative effort to create a more secure digital ecosystem for all Cameroonians" said Mr. Ngwainbi
Tricia Oben, President of The Dawn Journalist Association, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the unique challenges journalists face in the digital age. "In our profession, we are entrusted with the responsibility of uncovering the truth and holding the powerful accountable. But as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology, we must also prioritize our own security and that of our sources. This workshop is a crucial step in empowering us to do our jobs effectively and with integrity."
She urged her peers to embrace cyber security as a top priority. "As journalists, we are the guardians of truth and the narrators of reality. Our ability to protect our sources, our data, and ourselves in the digital realm is crucial to maintaining the integrity of our profession," she emphasized.
Oben acknowledged the daunting nature of cyber security, but encouraged a lighthearted approach. "Cyber security might sound daunting, but it doesn't have to be dry. I dare you all to come up with the most creative, yet secure, password by the end of this workshop," she challenged the attendees.
The two-day workshop aimed to equip journalists with the latest tools and knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of cyber threats. Experts shared insights on protecting devices, data, and sources, as well as understanding the broader dynamics of digital threats.
"This workshop is all about giving us the tools and knowledge to do just that," Oben said. "Let's make the most of this opportunity to learn, to engage, and to strengthen our capabilities as journalists."
Sa'ah Siona Ikei,
Creative Storyteller.
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