Digital transformation unlocks immense opportunities but introduces risks ranging from cyber threats to data misuse. The World Bank advances safe and inclusive digitalization by integrating digital safeguards, particularly in cybersecurity and data governance, to protect individuals, businesses and critical systems.
The Bank strengthens cyber resilience in developing countries by enabling robust prevention, detection, response, and recovery from digital threats. Key interventions include establishing of Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) to manage cyber incidents, building technical and institutional capacity through cyber skills and advanced frameworks (such as zero-trust architectures), and securing critical sectors like energy, finance, healthcare by aligning infrastructure and systems with international security standards. The World Bank also provides analytics and guidance on cloud cybersecurity, incident response strategies, and critical infrastructure protection, among others.
To foster trust in data-driven economies, the Bank supports the development of enforceable legal and regulatory frameworks aligned with global standards. A key focus has been on advancing data protection laws and strengthening capacity for data protection authorities, as well as integrating privacy principles into sectoral applications to safeguard user rights. Additionally, the Bank is promoting trust frameworks for e-signatures and e-transactions to secure online interactions, and engaging in policy dialogues to address risks like harmful online content and ensure safer digital environments.