A cyber defense unit has been created in Turkey

A special unit has been created in Turkey for cyber and information security, combating cybercrimes, and raising public awareness on these issues.

As reported by Ukrinform, the relevant decree signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was published today in the “Official Gazette”.

“The Presidential Decree (of Turkey – ed.) established the Cybersecurity Directorate, which is associated with the Turkish Presidential Administration, will be a separate legal entity and will have a special budget”, the decree states.

It is also noted that the newly established directorate will determine policies, strategies and goals, prepare action plans, conduct legislative studies, ensure coordination of relevant activities, conduct awareness-raising, training and knowledge-raising activities on cybersecurity.

It will also implement projects that support cybersecurity and information security, as well as public awareness in this area, and promote increased cooperation between the private sector and universities on this issue.

The directorate will include departments for cyber defense, cyber countermeasures, ecosystem development, as well as departments for external relations, management services, legal advice, press relations and public.

The directorate will have 135 employees, will have a separate budget, and will be located in Ankara. The directorate will cooperate with ministries, state institutions and organizations, professional associations, non-governmental organizations, representatives of the private sector, and experts on issues within its scope of responsibility.

As Ukrinform reported, security measures were strengthened at Turkish airports last year, in particular, more thorough screening of passengers at airport entrances was introduced. If a physical search is required and the passenger refuses, admission to the plane will be prohibited.