Ransomware attacks are one of the most popular ways hackers have recently targeted numerous local governments, and as a result, they must strengthen their cybersecurity landscape.
Fremont, CA: While many local governments are making digital transformation headways, those lagging behind risk major consequences. For years, local governments have been plagued by ransomware attacks and other cyber intrusions due to their continuous reliance on old technological systems that are insecure and easy to hack. Local governments must take proactive measures to protect their networks and data against hackers and ransomware assaults.
Here's how governments can improve their cybersecurity:
By using cloud-based technology
On-premise servers are expensive to operate, but they are also among the easiest for hackers to compromise. Thousands of towns, meanwhile, continue to rely on them to keep critical data. Using federal dollars to transition away from this obsolete technology and toward cloud-based government management software will save money and considerably increase the difficulty of a hacker breaking in. Cloud-based software eliminates the need for on-premise servers, which means that once information such as a permit is entered, it is immediately saved and made accessible to only those allowed access.
Encrypt sensitive information
Data encryption is the process of converting data to code, limiting access to valuable text, documents, or records to those with an access code or password. Data encryption is a method of protection that ensures that even if a government laptop, mobile phone, or USB drive is stolen, the thief will be unable to access the data contained within.
Encourage employees to use safe and secure passwords
Regrettably, some users continue to use weak passwords. It is important to inform the government employees that in order to protect their valuable data and network, they must use complex and difficult-to-guess passwords. Additionally, authorities should encourage employees to update their passwords at least once a month, and ensure that they do not write down or keep login information or passwords accessible anywhere.
