Enhancing national cybersecurity through Oxford University Innovation’s Consulting Services 

16th October 2024

The Cybersecurity Capacity Maturity Model for Nations (CMM) is a pioneering framework developed to assess and enhance the cybersecurity capabilities of countries.

Background

This model, created by the Global Cyber Security Capacity Centre (GCSCC) based at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Oxford, provides a comprehensive evaluation of a country’s cybersecurity maturity and offers actionable recommendations for improvement.

Challenge

Many nations face significant challenges in developing cyber resilience. These challenges include limited funding, lack of expertise, and the need for greater collaboration within government and with international partners. The CMM aims to address these issues by providing a structured approach to evaluating and improving cybersecurity capacity.

Solution

Oxford University Innovation’s (OUI) Consulting Services team has played a crucial role in the dissemination of CMM expertise internationally. By leveraging its consulting services, OUI has facilitated the adoption of the CMM by Switzerland, Cyprus, Bahamas, Cambodia, Haiti, Brazil and Libya, helping them to enhance their cybersecurity posture.

Implementation 
CMM reviews include:

Capacity building: Facilitating focus group discussions between key stakeholders from various sectors that enable new networks and partnerships in the country.

Assessment and Evaluation: Conducting thorough evaluations of a nation’s cybersecurity capabilities using the CMM.

Recommendations: Providing detailed, actionable recommendations to help nations improve their cybersecurity maturity.

Collaboration: Facilitating partnerships with international organisations which fund cybersecurity capacity building such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, World Bank, and International Telecommunication Union to support the implementation of recommendations.

Impact

The impact of the CMM has been significant. Countries that have done a CMM review have reported increased cybersecurity awareness, enhanced internal credibility of cybersecurity agendas, and improved collaboration within government and with external partners. For example, Brazil’s cybersecurity posture improved markedly following a CMM assessment.

By supporting the implementation of the CMM, OUI helps nations build stronger, more resilient cybersecurity infrastructures, ultimately contributing to a safer digital world.

For more information on CMM, visit their website.

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