Public reminded to keep a watchful eye on security of Internet-connected devices (with photos)

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     At the Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017 seminar today (September 20), the Deputy Government Chief Information Officer (Infrastructure and Operations), Mr Victor Lam, reminded the public to keep a watchful eye on cyber security, especially on Internet-connected smart home devices, to avoid falling prey to hackers in view of numerous cyber security attacks in recent years.

     Jointly organised by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO), the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) and the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre (HKCERT), the seminar, which was themed "Smart Home, Safe Living", is one of the highlight events of the Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017 campaign.

     "The proper protection of Internet-connected devices poses a challenge to cyber security nowadays. We strive to promote cyber security awareness across the community through different activities, equipping the businesses and the public at large with skills to tackle threats to their Internet-connected devices. These include changing system default passwords, keeping systems and software up-to-date, employing sophisticated encryption technology for wireless network communication and ensuring the removal of all personal data on devices before disposal," said Mr Lam.

     The Police, experts and representatives from the information security industry briefed the audience on topics covering threats to Internet-connected devices by botnets and relevant mitigation measures, tips on securing smart home, strategies to guard against phishing and ransomware attacks, and security measures in using mobile payment and social media.

     The award presentation ceremony for the "Smart Home, Safe Living" One-Page Comic Drawing Contest was also held today. Some 1 200 entries were received under the primary school, secondary school and open categories. Mr Lam applauded the creativity of the contestants for presenting cyber security risks and threats associated with Internet-connected devices, as well as various preventive measures, through vivid and entertaining comics. The winning entries are available for viewing at www.cybersecurity.hk/en/contest-2017.php.

     The Build a Secure Cyberspace campaign is an annual event co-organised by the OGCIO, the HKPF and the HKCERT. It aims at promoting public awareness of cyber security through publicity events like seminars, creativity contest, radio programmes and school talks. For details on this year's events, please visit www.cybersecurity.hk/en/build-a-secure-cyberspace.php.

Ends/Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Issued at HKT 17:30

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At the Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017 seminar today (September 20), the Deputy Government Chief Information Officer (Infrastructure and Operations), Mr Victor Lam, called on the public to pay attention to cyber security, especially on Internet-connected smart home devices, to avoid falling prey to hackers.

The Deputy Government Chief Information Officer (Infrastructure and Operations), Mr Victor Lam (back row, third left), is pictured with guests and winners at the award presentation ceremony of the "Smart Home, Safe Living" One-Page Comic Drawing Contest today (September 20).

Attachment

Annex 1: Champion entry of Open Group of "Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017" - “Smart Home, Safe Living” One-Page Comic Drawing Contest (Chinese only)

Annex 2: Champion entry of Secondary School Group of "Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017" - “Smart Home, Safe Living” One-Page Comic Drawing Contest (Chinese only)

Annex 3: Champion entry of Primary School Group of "Build a Secure Cyberspace 2017" - “Smart Home, Safe Living” One-Page Comic Drawing Contest (Chinese only)