SLCERT holds cyber safety awareness programme for MPs

Colombo, March 27 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) has conducted a Cyber Safety Awareness Programme for Members of Parliament, aimed at promoting the secure and responsible use of digital technologies in national governance.

The programme was organised in response to the growing reliance on digital platforms in policymaking, governance and public communication, highlighting the need for stronger cybersecurity awareness among lawmakers.

As key decision-makers with access to sensitive information and national systems, parliamentarians face increasing risks from cyber threats such as phishing, data breaches and misinformation campaigns. Officials stressed that improving awareness and preparedness is vital to safeguarding national security and maintaining public trust.

The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih and Deputy Chairperson of Committees Hemali Weerasekere, along with several government and opposition MPs.

The programme covered key areas including cyber hygiene, secure online communication and best practices required to operate safely in an increasingly interconnected digital environment.

Addressing the gathering, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy Waruna Sri Dhanapala emphasised the importance of strengthening cybersecurity awareness at all levels of governance. Chairman of Sri Lanka CERT Tilak Pathirage and Acting Chief Executive Officer Kanishka Karunasena also spoke, responding to queries raised by MPs.

Technical sessions were conducted by Chief Information Security Officer Nirosh Ananda, Lead Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola and Programme Manager – Capacity Building Thilina Dissanayake. They provided practical guidance on identifying cyber threats, protecting digital communications and adopting safe online practices.

Members of Parliament actively engaged with the experts throughout the sessions, reflecting growing recognition of cybersecurity as a critical component of effective governance and public service.

SLCERT said it will continue to strengthen national cybersecurity resilience through targeted training and awareness programmes for both public and private sector stakeholders.