Network Optimization for Data Flow Control in a Security-Challenged Country: The Case of Burkina Faso
- ICT Analysis and Applications. Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, Springer , 1563 (6) : 270-279
Résumé
The Internet plays a crucial role in everything these days—economic development, education, and civic engagement—but it is also exploited by cybercriminals and terrorists, particularly via propaganda on social networks. In Burkina, where the terrorist threat has been present since 2016, cyber-activists sometimes relay unverified information, which contributes enormously to misinforming the population.
With this in mind, this article proposes an improved architecture for the Burkinabe Internet network to better control data flows and limit the spread of false information. The study first analyzes the state of the Internet network in Burkina Faso, marked by heavy dependence on foreign platforms and a low rate of local hosting.
Among the solutions envisaged, firstly, awareness-raising among cyber-activists appears essential to promote the sharing of verified information.
Secondly, the improvement of local network architecture, notably through IXPs, which would enable better control of data circulating in the country.
Thirdly, training users to verify information and use social networks properly would also help limit the spread of false news.
Fourthly, the filtering of publications using firewalls, under the control of the Information Systems Security Agency, would strengthen national cybersecurity.
Finally, the development of local content, as well as encouraging the hosting of content caches (CDN), will help reduce dependence on foreign infrastructures and improve Burkina’s digital sovereignty.
Mots-clés
Internet, IXP, Cyber-terrorism, Social network, Architecture.