Cyber attackers focus on government and school organizations

TLDR:

In 2023, government organizations and schools across the nation experienced financial loss and disruption of services due to cyber attacks. Municipal services are high-value targets for cyber criminals, making it crucial for local government officials to understand the risks and protect vital services with limited resources.

Key Points:

• Government organizations and schools faced cyber attacks in 2023.
• Municipal services are high-value targets for cyber criminals.

Article Summary:

Government organizations and schools in small towns like Huber Heights, Ohio, Cullman, Ala., and Scotland, Conn. were victims of costly cyber attacks in 2023. Municipal services are essential parts of the nation’s critical infrastructure, making them prime targets for cyber criminals. To improve defenses, organizations can take steps such as monitoring accounts daily, implementing digital fraud controls, and ensuring adequate cyber insurance and crime policies.

Engaging with financial institution’s Information Security and Fraud Risk teams, leveraging free resources like those provided by CISA and NIST, and proactively assessing cyber risk are also recommended. With the increasing likelihood of cyber attacks, it is important for municipalities to have proper prevention tools in place to mitigate the impacts on residents.