Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, speaking at the “Synthetic Media and Information Security Workshop” organized by the Directorate of Communications, shared key updates on Turkey’s cyber security and digital information strategy.
Key Highlights from Minister Yerlikaya’s Speech:
- Cybersecurity and National Interests: “We are protecting our nation’s high-level interests in cyberspace,” the Minister stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of digital security in today’s world.
- Blocked Content and Accounts: 21,214 URLs have been blocked. 112,814 social media accounts have been restricted from access.
- Response to Digital Threats: The Ministry is carefully evaluating reports made on digital platforms, especially those that aim to disturb public order or incite unrest, and taking swift action against such content.
- Digital Literacy Warning: Yerlikaya warned the public not to accept everything they see online as true: “Always question and research the source. Digital literacy is one of the most important civic responsibilities of our time.”
- Information Security as a Strategic Priority: He highlighted following:
Information security is not merely a technical issue—it has direct implications for social stability and national security.
The spread of misinformation undermines society’s ability to make informed decisions.
Combating disinformation is seen as an integral part of Turkey’s broader cybersecurity efforts. - Countering Perception Operations: “We are not only tracking digital crimes but also strengthening society’s resilience against perception operations.”
- Vision for Cybersecurity: President Erdoğan’s vision of making Turkey a “brand name in cybersecurity” was reiterated as a guiding principle for the Ministry’s ongoing efforts.