Alor Setar:Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has announced its readiness to provide cybersecurity expertise and consultancy services to assist various parties in combating the increasing threat of cyberattacks.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed highlighted that the university possesses specialists in cybersecurity through its School of Computing and UUM Information Technology (UUMIT). Additionally, UUM has introduced a Master's in Cybersecurity programme to cultivate more experts in the field.

Prof Dr Ahmad Martadha emphasized that any organization needing help or advice on cybersecurity issues can reach out to UUM, as the university has qualified lecturers ready to assist in addressing these threats. This statement was made in response to inquiries about UUM's capacity to aid the country in tackling cyberattacks affecting several nations, including Malaysia.

In terms of UUM's internal cybersecurity measures, the Vice-Chancellor noted that UUMIT has been instructed to evaluate and enhance the protection of the university's websites and databases against intrusions. This includes implementing high-quality firewall systems to bolster defenses.

He further revealed that UUM has restricted access from overseas to certain websites and systems following a recent cyberattack detected at the university. However, he acknowledged that these restrictions must consider the needs of international students, offering them support if they encounter difficulties accessing online services.