The Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) co-organised the third Inter-departmental Cyber Security Drill with the Government Computer Emergency Response Team Hong Kong (GovCERT.HK) at Police Headquarters on January 11. The drill aimed to strengthen the capability of government bureaux/departments (B/Ds) against emerging cyber attacks, and foster cyber security collaboration between the Force and other B/Ds.

With the ever-changing cyber threat landscape, both the CSTCB and GovCERT.HK stressed that it is imperative to enhance the competencies of B/Ds in mitigating cyber threats.

A total of 87 officers from 42 B/Ds participated in the drill, which included a tabletop exercise and a hands-on exercise. The tabletop exercise simulated a malicious attack on a government website, and the participants discussed how to respond to the incident and handle media enquiries. Meanwhile, a representative from GovCERT.HK analysed trends of cyber attacks, and recommended prevention and response measures.

The hands-on exercise, which was held at the Police Force Cyber Range, simulated a ransomware attack on a government computer. Under the guidance of CSTCB representatives, the participants conducted incident response and investigation and applied their cyber security skills in a controlled and simulated environment.

The drill offered a platform for B/Ds to assess their cyber security preparedness and develop solutions to cyber threats. It also showed the Force's commitment to sharing its expertise in dealing with cyber security incidents.