Bernard Acquah, Chief Information Officer of MTN Ghana, has issued a compelling call for companies to fortify their cybersecurity frameworks, insisting that robust digital security must be integrated into the very culture of organisations.
Speaking during the MTN Bright Conversation webinar titled “Navigating the Digital World Safely: Awareness, Action, Assurance,” Acquah emphasised the critical need for businesses to adapt to the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
“Cybersecurity is a fundamental aspect of living in the digital age,” he asserted. “At MTN, we are dedicated to empowering our community with the knowledge and tools for online safety. Our theme, ‘Living with Security,’ reflects this commitment.”
Acquah outlined essential cybersecurity practices, advocating for the use of external tools and services as well as regular vulnerability testing to identify potential weaknesses within company networks.
He stressed that maintaining a secure digital environment is not just a technical issue but a collective responsibility that requires involvement from all employees.
“Cybersecurity should be integrated into daily routines,” he advised, urging employees to view it as a shared corporate responsibility rather than an isolated task. He highlighted the importance of employee training, strict access controls, and continuous monitoring of network endpoints as foundational elements of an effective cybersecurity defence.
Bernard Acquah also warned against the risks posed by external devices like USB drives, which can introduce malware and compromise network security. To mitigate these risks, he recommended adopting two-factor authentication and using strong, unique passwords.
As part of ongoing efforts to combat evolving cyber threats, Acquah encouraged participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities, reiterating MTN Ghana’s commitment to educating the public about safe online practices. “Awareness and periodic testing keep everyone alert and help prevent security breaches,” he noted.
This year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month initiatives reflect MTN Ghana’s dedication to fostering proactive digital security measures as essential components for sustainable growth in an increasingly digital world. The conversation was moderated by Koby Spiky Nkrumah, Group Head at ElB Digital.