Icode has now been in operation for over one year. The IIA is currently conducting a review of the iCode. We will also be providing input as part of this work to the DBCDE, in connection with their current work on cybersecurity matters.

Over 30 ISP’s covering 90% of Australian Internet users are currently participating in icode.

Background:

The Internet Industry Association (www.iia.net.au) in conjunction with the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy and the Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, launched a new voluntary code of practice on 6 June 2010 for Australian Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to improve cybersecurity for all consumers.

Known as the icode, the code recognises both (ISPs) and consumers can and must share responsibility for minimising the risks inherent in using the internet.
The code provides a consistent approach for Australian ISPs to help inform, educate and protect their customers in relation to cybersecurity.

By following the code ISPs  contribute to reducing the number of compromised computers in Australia and enhance the overall security of the Australian and international internet.
The code will deliver a standard set of best practices for ISPs to follow to preserve the integrity of their networks.

The icode contains four main elements:

• A notification/management system for compromised computers
• A standardised information resource for end users
• A comprehensive resource for ISPs to access the latest threat information
• A reporting mechanism in cases of extreme threat back to CERT Australia to facilitate a national high level view of attack status.

The icode builds on the ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) Australian Internet Security Initiative (AISI) as well as other sources of security intelligence which showed that malware-infested computers were a growing risk that required coordinated industry, consumer and government responses.

The icode is available for download here.