The state launched a new cybersecurity defense plan Thursday that calls for extensive security in state government agencies, the General Assembly, and the judicial branch, while also establishing municipal cyber defenses, the governor announced.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said his administration developed the 41-page Cybersecurity Action Plan to enhance cyber security defenses to combat an increasing array of cyber threats facing Connecticut.
“Cyber intrusion threatens state and municipal government, every person, every business, and every organization in Connecticut,” Malloy said.
The enhancements follow a February cybersecurity attack that infected 160 computers across 12 state agencies that officials managed to contain.
“Recent events have underscored nationwide vulnerability to cyber penetration,” the governor said. “While no one can guarantee security, we can take basic steps to protect government functions and give Connecticut business a competitive edge.”
The plan urges the state Judicial Department and the General Assembly to establish annual review and assessment processes, and asks the General Assembly to prioritize strengthening cybersecurity and approving a joint resolution “affirming” the state is “vulnerable” to cyber attacks.
Other key cybersecurity initiatives include engaging the business community to encourage risk assessment and security, and increasing attention on cyber-crime investigation and academic awareness regarding the detriments of cyber attacks.
Malloy said the action plans prepares and helps protect Connecticut agencies to respond and recover from cyber compromise.
