TT-CSIRT/ FIRST A4 Initiative -Cyber Threat Intelligence and Crisis Communication Workshop
The Trinidad and Tobago Cyber Security Incident Response Team (TT-CSIRT), in collaboration with the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST) A4 Initiative hosted a week-long series of workshops from March 17th to 21st, 2025. This initiative served as a pivotal moment in fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer among key stakeholders, aiming to cultivate a more resilient and secure digital environment for the nation.
The workshops were strategically structured, beginning with three-day discussions between the core CSIRT and FIRST experts. These sessions were aimed at refining internal plans and processes to enhance the CSIRT’s operational efficiency. They served as crucial platforms for dialogue, enabling the TT-CSIRT to articulate its functions, services, and its critical role within the national cyber security ecosystem. Members of the FIRST team provided support on the improvement of good practice guides and advisories through playbook sharing as well as localized information on incident response and mitigations. Additionally, one-on-one meetings were conducted with vital stakeholders, including the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT), CARICOM IMPACS, and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service – Cyber Crime and Social Media Unit (TTPS- CSMU).
The subsequent two days, held at the Brix Hotel in Port of Spain, marked a transition to a broader, more practical focus on cyber threat intelligence and crisis communication. This collaborative effort, facilitated by FIRST, brought together professionals from cyber security, defense, and intelligence.
Participants engaged in practical exercises, designed to enhance their understanding of the evolving cyber threat landscape, develop proficiency in collecting and analyzing cyber threat intelligence, and master the art of crafting robust crisis communication plans. The emphasis on effective communication strategies, both internal and external, underscored the importance of maintaining stakeholder trust and mitigating reputational damage during a crisis.
The culmination of the week-long initiative was a practical exploration by way of a Crisis Drill to simulate a major security incident and allowed participants to brainstorm ideas on how they would handle such an event. This exercise provided attendees with invaluable tips for effectively communicating and navigating during a cyber incident. Additionally, it allowed them to apply their knowledge in a realistic scenario, fostering collaborative problem-solving and strategic thinking skills. This exercise highlighted the importance of preparedness and the need for robust crisis management and communications plans.
The workshop series served as a catalyst for strengthening national cyber security capabilities. By fostering collaboration, disseminating knowledge, and providing practical training, the initiative empowered key stakeholders to effectively address the challenges posed by the evolving cyber threat landscape. The successful execution of this week-long program stands as a testament to the commitment of the TT-CSIRT and its partners in building a more secure and resilient digital future for Trinidad and Tobago.
