Kenya has issued an alert over a potential data breach into the systems in the registrar of companies in Nairobi.

Following notification by the Kenya Registration Services Bureau (BRS), the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy swiftly assembled a multi-agency team to investigate the incident and promptly prevent and safeguard any further data exfiltration.

Information and Digital Economy, Cabinet Secretary (CS), William Kabogo, in a press release, assured citizens that the multi-agency security team, in collaboration with international cyber-security agencies responsible for overseeing cyberspace governance, are handling the matter around the clock to mitigate the issue efficiently and effectively.

The company databank is hosted at the ministry headquarters and it one of the most protected and surveilled government offices.

The minister assured Kenyans and all other stakeholders that the security and integrity of all government and digital assets is a top priority concern for government.

 “The ministry is actively collaborating with international cyber-security agencies responsible for overseeing cyberspace governance to address and mitigate the issue effectively,” Kabogo pledged.

Noting that cyber-security is a shared responsibility by all stakeholders, the CS encouraged the public to adopt strict cyber-security measures that include ensuring their devices have the latest security updates and anti-virus software installed.

The CS advised Kenyans to regularly update passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where possible, adding that the public needs to be cautious when sharing sensitive personal information online. Kabogo, at the same time, urged Kenyans to verify the authenticity of websites and emails to avoid phishing attacks, adding that it is crucial to have regular backups of important data.

The CS said the Ministry, through its various agencies, will issue further guidance and advisories to assist the public in understanding best practices for data protection and privacy.

The public is advised to report suspicious activities through the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy links that includes: Email address: info@information.go.ke.

• A Tell / KNA  report / By Ian Chepkuto