National cyber intel partnership formed

Major Australian corporations, including Westpac, Telstra, and Woolworths, have joined the National Cyber Intel Partnership to enhance collective cyber defense efforts.

“No single entity can face these threats alone,” said Lieutenant General Michelle McGuinness (pictured above left), national cyber security coordinator.

Collaboration critical for cyber protection

The partnership emphasises collaboration, with companies sharing intelligence and techniques to block cyber threats.

“Effective collaboration has a multiplicative effect,” Westpac’s Simon Brown (pictured above centre) said.

“Working together helps the community respond quicker to threats,” Woolworths’ Pieter van der Merwe (pictured above right) said.

Blocking phishing and malware threats

One key initiative is sharing phishing site information to protect customers.

“We’ve developed a system to connect our processes so Telstra can block phishing sites,” Brown said.

Telstra’s Narelle Devine said that scam blocking is just the beginning, with plans to tackle malware next.

Automation and scalability in focus

The partnership aims to automate and scale its threat-blocking systems.

“We’re looking at how to involve more organisations and ensure information is shared widely,” Devine said.

The goal is to quickly transfer intelligence and take protective action.

Next steps for cyber collaboration

The pilot program is a foundation for broader collaboration, involving banks, telcos, and critical infrastructure providers.

“We’re keen to make a difference one step at a time,” Devine said, adding, “It’s a wonderful discussion to be having about making Australia a safer place.”

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