Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly costly priority for state and local governments, requiring employee training and software purchases, according to a report released Tuesday by the Public Technology Institute, a group that supports IT professionals. More funds are being dedicated to strengthening security posture through technology improvements. Local government.
This new report, which surveyed 200 city and county government IT leaders, finds positive trends regarding local government cybersecurity budgets. 72% of IT professionals claimed their budgets are sufficient to address current cybersecurity threats, including: This is to pay for risk assessments, malware detection, and mitigation strategies. This number is up from 64% reported in the previous year’s survey.
The Institute’s findings are a step in the right direction for IT leaders, especially in light of recent findings from other reports showing that some cybersecurity costs are rising. In August, IT security company Sophos released a report showing the average cost of recovering from a ransomware attack will rise to $2.83 million in 2024, more than double the $1.21 million in 2023. did.
Meanwhile, a survey released in September by the National Association of State Chief Information Officers found that 40% of IT leaders believe cybersecurity measures are not keeping government and citizens’ data safe. The Department responded that it lacked sufficient funds.
Another positive trend, according to the PTI report, is the rise in dedicated cybersecurity leadership positions within local governments. In 2024, 67% reported having a role dedicated to managing day-to-day operations and developing long-term security plans. In the previous year, only 52% reported having a specialized cybersecurity role.
“The importance of having a CISO is growing to balance and manage the cyber risk factors that impact every organization. This role focuses on innovating and protecting critical data and systems. ” states the report.
Author: Sophia Fox-Sowell Sophia Fox-Sowell reports on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and government regulation for StateScoop. She previously served as a multimedia producer at CNET, focusing on private sector innovation in food production, climate change, and space through podcasts and video content. She earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Wagner College and a master’s degree in media innovation from Northeastern University.
