The Core Centre of State Communications carried out a continuity of activity test at the Secure Data Transfer Network (Secure Network) under simulated conditions of disrupted international web connections earlier this week.
“Such tests are not table-top exercises, the international internet connection is really unplugged, which is very important for the assessment of state information resource resilience, cybersecurity and autonomous capacity under such stress in order to get a realistic view of the possibility of communication between key state institutions in digital space. The data collected from the institutions as a result of the test will allow us to assume the level of readiness of the state institutions to counter cyber-attacks or an outright physical disruption of the internet connection,” says Vice Minister of National Defence Margiris Abukevičius.
The trial assessed the ability of state and municipal institutions responsible for critical functions of the state who are connected to the Secure Network to reach information resources and communicate between the Secure Network users in case of crisis.
During the exercise, the participants were tasked with assessing availability of communications, websites and critical electronic service portals, interaction of state registries and information systems in a real-life situation of shut down access to the international internet connection.
The test encompassed approx. 300 state and municipal agencies.
The Secure Network is one of the critical components of Lithuania’s strategy on ensuring national security in cyber space. It is independent from public communications networks and is built to be operational during crises or war to ensure the continuity of activity of critical institutions. The list of Secure Network Users is approved by the Government. It includes institutions that have role in case of contingencies, natural disasters, mobilization, war or other emergencies.
