Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York State has announced the start of a new $30 million cybersecurity program that aims at helping local governments across the state.
The program is a shared services program that will assist counties with cybersecurity threats such as ransomware attacks that have been growing in recent years.
“My administration is laser focused on providing cybersecurity resources for local governments,” Governor Hochul said. “By launching this new $30 million program, we are bolstering the state’s capabilities to respond to the evolving threat of cyberattacks and strengthening our ability to protect New York’s institutions, infrastructure, citizens, and public safety.”
The program is part of the Joint Security Operations Center (JSOC), which will provide endpoint detection and response services that will allow New York cyber experts to detect sophisticated attacks.
“As ransomware attacks become more frequent, it is essential for us to protect sensitive information at local governments across the state,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. “The shared services program will provide counties with the assistance and support they need to enhance their cyber defenses.”
JSOC will be an effective means by which local governments will be able to deter cyber criminals from attacking because of the centralized approach. Additionally, JSOC partners will have access to cyber experts without costing anything to local governments, according to the press release.
