Cybersecurity Certification and Licensing Deadline September 2023 – Is Your Industry on the List
Cybersecurity Certification and Licensing Deadline September 2023 – Is Your Industry on the List ; Ghana is on course to become the first country in Africa, and one of the few in the world to introduce a licensing regime for Cybersecurity Service Providers and Accreditation for Cybersecurity Establishments and Cybersecurity Professionals.
With the new regime, an institution or individual must apply for a practising licence from the GCA and be granted after meeting the necessary requirements in order to be recognised as a cybersecurity service provider.
The mandatory licensing, which is backed by the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), will ensure that there is sanity within the industry in terms of capabilities and acceptable ways of conducting sensitive services in the country.
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has been established by the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to regulate cybersecurity activities in the country. Pursuant to sections 4(k), 49, 50, 51, 57 and 59 of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020, the Authority hereby announces the commencement of the process of licensing Cybersecurity Service Providers (CSPs), and accreditation of Cybersecurity Establishments (CEs) and Cybersecurity Professionals (CPs).
The Licensing of CSPs and the accreditation of CEs and CPs is to ensure
Regulatory compliance with the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038)
CSPs, CEs, and CPs offer their services in accordance with approved standards and procedures in line with domestic requirements and industry best practices.
Industry and People who needs the Accreditation and certification
Information Technology (IT) Professionals:
IT professionals, including network administrators, system administrators, and IT managers, often need cybersecurity certifications to demonstrate their expertise in securing digital systems and networks. Certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are commonly sought after.
Cybersecurity Analysts and Specialists:
Professionals working specifically in cybersecurity roles, such as cybersecurity analysts, penetration testers, security consultants, and incident responders, may require certifications that showcase their specialized skills. Examples include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Incident Handler (GCIH).
Government and Defense Sector:
Professionals working in government agencies, military, and defense often need specialized cybersecurity certifications due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle. These certifications might include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
Healthcare Industry:
Given the sensitive nature of patient data and the increasing reliance on digital healthcare systems, cybersecurity certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Healthcare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner (HCISPP) are relevant for professionals working in this industry.
Financial Services Industry:
Professionals in the financial sector who handle sensitive financial information and transactions may require certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) to ensure the security of financial systems and data.
Legal and Compliance Professionals:
Professionals working in legal and compliance roles within various industries often need to understand cybersecurity regulations and standards. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) can be beneficial.
IoT (Internet of Things) and Embedded Systems Developers:
With the proliferation of IoT devices, professionals involved in developing and securing IoT devices may benefit from certifications that focus on IoT security, such as CompTIA IoT+ and Certified IoT Security Practitioner (CIoTSP).
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Critical Infrastructure:
Professionals working with industrial control systems, SCADA systems, and critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, transportation, and utilities may require specialized certifications like Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA).
Deadline
Cybersecurity Service Providers, Cybersecurity Establishments, and Cybersecurity Professionals have up until September 30, 2023, to take advantage of the ongoing regulatory exercise to obtain a license or accreditation to stay in business. The commencement date for the enforcement of the regime is October 1, 2023
To register,
Visit the CSA main website www.csa.gov.gh
Click on the Category you wish to register and do so.
You can also visit the office or Contact them for Assistance
3d Floor, NCA Tower
KIA, 6 Aiport By-pass Rd, Accra | Digital Address: GL-126-7029 | Tel: 0303 972530, 0303 972531
E-mail: info @csa.gov.gh | Website: www.csa.gov.gh
Cybersecurity Certification and Licensing Deadline September 2023 – Is Your Industry on the List?
