CYBERSECURITY is no longer just an IT issue, it’s a business imperative.
These were the comments of ANZ’s Head of Information Security Eli Hirschauge who was in Suva last week to discuss the growing importance of cybersecurity across the Pacific region.
He emphasised the increasing frequency and complexity of cyber threats targeting financial institutions and critical infrastructure in the region.
“In the Pacific, where digital transformation is accelerating, we must ensure that security keeps pace with innovation,” Mr Hirschauge said in a statement from the ANZ Group.
He noted that phishing, ransomware and supply chain attacks were among the most pressing threats facing organisations today.
He also stressed the importance of proactive risk management, employee training and regional collaboration.
“Building cyber resilience requires a shared effort between governments, businesses, and communities.
“By investing in awareness and preparedness, we can better protect the Pacific’s digital future.”
Mr Hirschauge also shared insights into ANZ’s approach to cybersecurity, including its use of advanced threat detection, real-time monitoring and strong governance frameworks to safeguard customer data and financial systems.
To help businesses and retail customers stay safe in an increasingly digital world, Mry Hirschauge advised that:
For retail customers:
– Pause before you share – never disclose passwords and sensitive information without verifying the request,
– Call it out – if something doesn’t seem right or goes wrong, speak immediately. Banks can assist more effectively when alerted early, and
– Enable automatic updates – keeping your devices and apps up to date is one of the simplest ways to stay protected.
For businesses:
– Awareness – phishing remains the most common cyber threat, and regular campaigns are essential,
– Tidiness – maintain strong password policies, ensure timely patching of systems, and back up data regularly, and
– Readiness – have a response plan in place. Even a basic walk-through with key stakeholders can make a big difference in the event of an incident.
As part of his visit, he met ANZ clients, hosted cybersecurity awareness sessions for customers and bank staff, and attended a bilateral cyber working group meeting with the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) and the Association of Banks in Fiji (ABIF).
ANZ Fiji Country Head Rabih Yazbek said hosting Mr Hirschauge in Suva reflected the bank’s commitment to supporting digital resilience in the Pacific.
“As cyber threats become more sophisticated, it’s vital that we work together to strengthen our collective defenses,” Mr Yazbek said.
