Bermuda’s inaugural National Cybersecurity Risk Assessment is to begin this week, the Ministry of National Security has advised.

The National Cybersecurity Unit is distributing the assessment via e-mail to businesses and other stakeholders, which are encouraged to complete it by June 30.

The information collected will help to guide the next phase of Bermuda’s cybersecurity planning and update the National Cybersecurity Strategy.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said: “This National Cybersecurity Risk Assessment is an important national exercise. It will help government gather current information from across the public and private sectors, and guide the next phase of Bermuda’s cybersecurity planning.

“Cybersecurity affects Government, businesses, public services, personal information and the wider community.”

The Government said that e-mails should not be shared outside of the organisation.

If an individual receives an e-mail but is not the correct person from their organisation, they are asked to contact cybersecurity@gov.bm so the e-mail can be redirected.

If an organisation has not received an e-mail by May 7 and wishes to contribute, it should send a request to the same e-mail address.

Mr Weeks added: “Government is acting now because the country cannot afford delay. Cybersecurity requires structure, urgency and informed action, and this assessment is part of that work.

“The more complete the participation, the clearer the picture Bermuda will have as we prepare the next phase of our national cybersecurity planning.

“I thank all participating organisations in advance for taking the time to assist with this important work.”