Ghana: FirstBank Joins Global Cybersecurity Awareness Month Initiative

FirstBank Ghana has announced its active participation in the 2024 Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a global initiative emphasizing the safeguarding of digital ecosystems. The Bank hosted a webinar to launch this year’s theme, “Secure Our World,” which highlights the shared responsibility in protecting the financial sector’s digital infrastructure and promoting proactive measures against cyber threats.

With the rise of digital transactions and increasing reliance on online systems, cybersecurity has become a critical concern for financial institutions globally. As a leader in the banking sector, FirstBank Ghana recognizes the importance of building a secure and resilient digital environment for both the organization and its clients.

Throughout the month-long Cybersecurity Awareness Month, FirstBank Ghana is implementing a series of initiatives aimed at raising awareness among its staff, customers, and partners. These efforts include interactive training sessions, real-world simulations, and practical tips on strengthening defenses against cyberattacks. The campaign also emphasizes best practices for cyber hygiene, such as strong password policies, multifactor authentication (MFA), phishing email identification and reporting, and regular updates through patch management.

Speaking at the webinar on “Secure Our World: Misinformation and Disinformation,” Victor Yaw Asante, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Ghana, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity, “At FirstBank, the safety of our financial systems and the security of our customers’ assets are paramount. Cyber threats pose a significant risk to these foundations, with the potential to disrupt operations, cause financial losses, and lead to reputational damage. Our participation in the ‘Secure Our World’ campaign highlights the vital role each of us plays in protecting the bank’s digital infrastructure. By adopting strong cybersecurity practices, we are safeguarding our organization’s financial future and that of our clients.”

Mrs. Audrey Mnisi Mireku, Banking Operations, Risk & Cyber Security Executive at the Ghana Association of Banks, echoed this sentiment,  “Cybersecurity is a collective responsibility, especially within the financial sector. The Ghanaian banking industry must remain vigilant and proactive, continuously adapting to evolving threats. FirstBank’s commitment to education and practical cybersecurity measures is a crucial step in fortifying the sector against potential breaches.”

Dr. Harrison Nnaji, Group Chief Information Security Officer at FirstBank, highlighted the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, “The financial sector is one of the most targeted industries by cybercriminals. To stay ahead, we must constantly innovate and evolve our security strategies. FirstBank’s participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a testament to our dedication to protecting our digital assets and ensuring the safety of our customers’ financial information.”

Mr. Prince Adu, Consultant at Innovare, emphasized the importance of continuous education, “Cybersecurity is not a one-time event; it is an ongoing process of learning, adapting, and applying best practices. Initiatives like this play a vital role in ensuring that every member of the organisation, from leadership to entry-level employees, is equipped with the knowledge to mitigate potential risks.”

Mr. Asante further stressed that cybersecurity is a shared commitment, not solely the responsibility of the IT and information security departments. Throughout October, FirstBank Ghana will engage its staff with hands-on training and real-time scenarios to equip them with the skills to identify and mitigate cyber risks.

The “Secure Our World” initiative is a reminder that in today’s digital age, every individual within an organisation plays a role in cybersecurity. By working together, FirstBank Ghana is confident it can protect its financial systems and provide a safe, reliable banking experience for its customers.

Ikemefula Nwagwu, Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer at FirstBank Ghana, concluded, “Data fuels our digital age, and information can either set us apart or bring us down. As new threats emerge daily, it’s our duty to think critically, stay informed, and be cyber smart to outsmart the threats and secure our world.”