Ransomware attacks on counties can suspend government services, create taxpayer costs, and jeopardize data security, sometimes with immediate public safety implications.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that allows hackers to deny a government access to its own information, or threaten publishing sensitive information, until a ransom is paid to the hacker.

Governing  is offering a free webinar to help confront this threat, which has already manifested in one Maryland jurisdiction.

Governing states,

The U.S. Department of Justice estimates more than 4,000 ransomware attacks have occurred every day since the beginning of 2016, and government is a prime target. Given such risks, a robust disaster recovery and data protection plan is critical for any state or local government organization.

Webinar details:

• May 24
• 2:00 p.m. ET

Register online or Contact Brittany Roberts of Governing with any questions.

MACo’s Summer Conference will also feature a session on cybersecurity, including presentations on free resources available to county governments through federal partners.

The session will be part of the MACo Summer Conference, August 15-18, 2018. For more information, and to register click here.

Registration is not required to attend the Maryland County Information Technology Officers Meeting. Registration is required to attend the Tech Expo. A separate Wednesday registration may be purchased.