Singapore Launches First-Ever Phishing Exercise Under Exercise SG Ready

The Singapore government has initiated a groundbreaking phishing exercise that will see more than 200 organizations, spanning large companies to small and medium enterprises, test their cyber security measures for two weeks beginning February 15. This effort marks the first cooperation of its kind between the Ministry of Defence and the Singapore Business Federation, and it forms an integral part of the annual Exercise SG Ready campaign. The exercise is designed to bolster the ability of businesses to fend off cyber threats and to reassess their business continuity plans in an increasingly digital world.

The phishing drill targets industries that include manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and construction. It is implemented as part of a broader strategy to enhance the overall resilience of Singapore's cyber infrastructure. As the nation continues to prepare for both digital and physical disruptions, this exercise reinforces the need for robust contingency planning across various sectors.

Exercise SG Ready, commemorating the 40th anniversary of Singapore's national defence concept, underscores the total defence framework that covers military, civil, economic, social, psychological, and digital defence initiatives. Launched last year and expanded this year, the exercise involves over 1,000 organizations such as schools, community groups, businesses, and government agencies, all conducting readiness activities simultaneously over a two-week period. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong emphasized the importance of being vigilant against both physical and digital threats, urging continuous efforts to secure data, devices, and systems online, as well as fostering cross-cultural ties among Singapore’s diverse communities.