- Cyber response operation to curb online threats underway
BY NED GAGAHE
The Solomon Islands Computer Emergency Response Team (SI-CERT), a national initiative backed by Australia, United Kingdom and New Zealand says it will crack down on fake social media accounts.
In a statement over the weekend, SI-CERT urged the public to be vigilant and report suspicious profiles directly to its official Facebook page.
SI-CERT, through a statement via the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, said it is monitoring growing cases of fake accounts and online abuse, especially on Facebook.
The action comes in response to increased swearing, impersonation, and inflammatory contents and posts seen during the Solomon Cup.
“SI-CERT will assess all reports and coordinate with the relevant authorities to take appropriate action, including the removal of fraudulent accounts,” the statement said.
“Your vigilance helps protect our digital community. Stay safe. Stay cyber aware,” SI-CERT added.
SI-CERT project was officially launched on April 2, 2025, an initiative spearheaded by the Solomon Islands Government in partnership with the Governments of Australia, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.
The establishment of SI-CERT marks a new era in the country’s digital transformation.
SI-CERT is the first national response mechanism to tackle cybercrime, targeting fake accounts, data breaches, scams, and other digital threats affecting both public and private sectors.
Speaking at the launch of the project in April, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea, emphasised at the launch that cybersecurity is now a national priority.
“Cybersecurity is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s a critical obligation.
“Our growing dependence on digital technologies has exposed us to new and evolving threats. SI-CERT will ensure our digital ecosystem remains resilient and secure,” he said.
In light of recent reports, Deputy Prime Minister Frederick Kologeto, ministers Jimson Tanangada and Daniel Waneoroa have issued separate calls for responsible online behaviour to prevent conflict and maintain national harmony.
Deputy Prime Minister Frederick Kologeto condemned the rise of offensive social media posts, warning it could disrupt community harmony.
“Such behaviour is unacceptable and has the potential to undermine peace and unity,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Minister for Police, Jimson Tanangada urges Facebook users across the Solomon Islands to stop posting offensive and vulgar comments, warning such actions threaten national unity.
“This is a time for celebration and togetherness, not hostility. Online hate speech fuels division. Let’s be responsible and respectful,” he said.
The minister also calls on community leaders, churches, and both provincial and national officials to join forces in encouraging respectful online behaviour among citizens.
He emphasised that parents and schools must take an active role in fostering peace and mutual respect, especially among youth.
The minister said that any post inciting hatred or violence will be treated seriously and could result in prosecution under the nation’s cybercrime and security laws.
The SI-CERT team is tasked with a wide range of cyber defense operations, including:
- Monitoring and responding to cyber incidents
- Supporting law enforcement in digital forensic investigations
- Promoting public cybersecurity awareness
- Auditing and advising critical infrastructure providers
- Coordinating with regional and global cybersecurity networks
- Running a call center for reporting cyber incidents
The SI-CERT will work closely with stakeholders across government, private sector, law enforcement, and academic institutions, fostering collaboration and information sharing to strengthen national cyber resilience.
The project also delivers on Objective 2 of the National Cybersecurity Policy, launched in August 2024, which focuses on strengthening institutional frameworks for cybersecurity in the Solomon Islands.
The success of the SI-CERT project is backed by continued support from Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, who have committed to helping Solomon Islands build a stronger and more secure cybersecurity infrastructure.
The public is encouraged to be alert, report suspicious activity, and be part of a collective effort to make the internet a safer space for all.
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