Cybersecurity Panels Shares a Network of Resources

In a General Session at MACo’s Summer Conference, experts in cybersecurity from the Department of Homeland Security and the Maryland Department of Information Technology joined the Technology Services Director of Calvert County and private sector representatives to give insights into how counties can make progress toward better cyber protection.

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Congressman Ruppersberger spoke about the vulnerability of the nation’s grid systems in his introduction to a MACo session on cybersecurity.

The Honorable C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, U.S. House of Representatives gave introductory remarks and moderated the panel.

The panelists focused on free and cost-effective ways to improve security at the local level including employee training and use of state and federal services.

Kevin Moran of the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center, National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center Partner Liaison spoke about the free services available to county governments that join MS-ISAC. To join, contact Kevin.

Charles Ames, Director, Statewide Security Services, Maryland Department of Information Technology spoke about how the State can help county governments assess their system and develop a strategy.

Sandy Vandebult, Chief Information Officer of KnowBe4, Inc. shared how his business gives users the experience of recognizing a real phishing email through training.

Joe Klausner, Technology Services Director, Calvert County Government spoke about the value of having a champion of cybersecurity among your county IT staff to lead the charge on cybersecurity. Klausner emphasized the need for integration of cybersecurity into the county’s work, stating,

Cybersecurity should not be bolted on; it should be built-in.

Brian Hubbard, Founder, Evolved Cyber, Member, Cybersecurity Association of Maryland Inc., described how to make employees stakeholders in a cybersecurity program, counseling that cybersecurity is a cultural issue within one’s organization.