Our entire life is under the threat of cyberattacks. The peculiarity of a cyberattack is that it becomes known post factum, making it challenging to predict. In connection with the proposed bill, we are trying to create not only a response system but also a secure cyberspace system to prevent attacks. This was stated by the head of the digitization department of the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia, Arshak Kerobyan, during a meeting with journalists on December 26.

He explained that all infrastructure using cyber solutions is vulnerable. Since attacks have a network character, the resistance should also be networked by creating a connection between the private sector and the government, using all available resources. "We want the law to apply not only to the state. However, until acceptable conditions are created for all players, the law will remain on paper. Discussions will be held with stakeholders before that.

Only the adoption of bylaws and the creation of the necessary infrastructure can effectively solve existing problems. We tried to create tools to address the issue by attracting specialists and preparing personnel," said the official. He noted that salaries of specialists in the public sector are much lower than in the private sector.

"Together with the Central Bank of Armenia, we created an agency that allows offering salaries commensurate with market ones. This led to the formation of a group of specialists, including from the diaspora. In addition to the personnel shortage, there are also problems with equipment, methodology, experience exchange, and the application of international experience. In all these areas, the EU and the US support us," Kerobyan added.

According to the assessment of cybersecurity expert Samvel Martirosyan, any system related to the internet is vulnerable. "In some cases, even systems not connected to the internet may be under threat and subject to attacks. Armenia is becoming more vulnerable to cyberattacks. This is due to the digitization process," he said.

Martirosyan reported that businesses often hide attacks on them, and they incur serious losses. The proposed law forces companies to hire specialists to combat cybersecurity, which is a positive change, according to the expert. "At the same time, it is essential to maintain balance and apply restraining mechanisms. In addition, attention should be paid not only to international mechanisms but also to the development of national standards," he added.

Martirosyan emphasized the importance of creating a hotline for children and adolescents who are subjected to cyberattacks or psychological pressure, as well as infrastructure to protect ordinary citizens from cyber threats. He also stressed the importance of creating a future authorized body that would deal with broader, hybrid threats.

Armenian authorities have initiated a bill that will create a legal basis for the development of a comprehensive state policy and action plan in the field of cybersecurity, strengthening cybersecurity in emergency and wartime conditions, developing additional action plans, informing the public, and implementing programs aimed at increasing cyber literacy.

Changes are being made to ensure the uninterrupted operation of information systems and critical information infrastructures used to provide vital services in Armenia, ensuring the confidentiality of processed information, notifying about cyber incidents, and preventing them.