Computer emergency response team- CERT

The National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) is the primary body responsible for coordinating and regulating Information Technology services for all government entities in Uganda. Among its roles, NITA-U has established the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) service, specifically known as CERT-UG/CC, to enhance cybersecurity across the nation's critical information infrastructures.

Key Functions of CERT-UG/CC:

• Incident Response: CERT-UG/CC facilitates communication with experts both locally and internationally to assist in resolving security incidents. Their primary focus is on mitigating cyber threats, conducting incident response, and providing technical guidance to manage and respond to cybersecurity incidents.

• Cybersecurity Awareness and Education: NITA-U through CERT-UG/CC works to improve awareness and understanding of information security concerns among Ugandans. This includes capacity building, information collaboration, and public education on major cybersecurity issues.

• Artifact Handling: The service includes the analysis of files or objects involved in malicious activities, such as viruses, worms, scripts, and trojans. The information derived from these analyses is shared with relevant parties to prevent further spread of malware.

• Security and Quality Management: CERT-UG/CC also engages in long-term security and quality management services, which include consultancy and educational measures to enhance cybersecurity practices across government sectors.

• Incident Reporting: The National CERT provides a platform for reporting cybersecurity incidents, helping to coordinate responses and share knowledge to strengthen national cybersecurity posture.

Support and Services:

• Email and Hotline Support: Offers direct communication channels for reporting and getting assistance with cybersecurity incidents.

• Technical Guidance: Provides expert advice and guidance on how to handle, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents.

• Policy and Procedure Development: CERT-UG/CC is involved in setting up policies, procedures, and the overall administration of cybersecurity measures within government operations.

Strategic Importance: CERT-UG/CC, managed by NITA-U, plays a crucial role in safeguarding Uganda's digital landscape, particularly in protecting government systems from cyber threats. By fostering a national culture of cybersecurity, it not only helps in incident management but also in strategic planning against future cyber risks, supporting the broader aim of a secure and digitally competent Uganda.

This service underscores NITA-U's commitment to ensuring that all government IT systems operate securely, thereby safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of information across governmental operations.