Cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure are growing more sophisticated, and a new initiative gives local systems practical tools to strengthen operational technology defenses.

Local water and wastewater utilities have a new opportunity to strengthen their operational technology defenses through a free cybersecurity webinar and year-long support program. The initiative aims to help utilities navigate growing cyber threats, build internal capacity, and access practical tools tailored to the water sector.

On December 4, Dragos will host a virtual session highlighting no-cost industrial cybersecurity resources available to local governments and utilities. Water sector experts from Colorado and Alaska will share their experiences using these tools, offering insights into how smaller systems can improve resilience with limited resources.

A key highlight of the webinar is the launch of the Maryland State OT-CERT Cohort, a new program providing bi-monthly, one-hour virtual sessions over the course of a year. Through this cohort, specialists will guide participating utilities step-by-step in developing a foundational operational technology cybersecurity program, an area of increasing importance for water systems of all sizes.

Additional programs featured include:

• Dragos Community Defense Program: Utilities with annual revenue under $100 million can access free Dragos technology, threat hunting support, and monthly training sessions.

• Dragos OT-CERT: All utilities gain free access to cybersecurity best practices, training modules, tabletop exercises, templates, and demonstration videos that can be used to strengthen internal protocols.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, these resources provide a timely and practical pathway for local governments to bolster their security posture at no cost.