Security News > 2020 > February > States Press for Federal Resources to Fight Cyberthreats

State government officials from Michigan and Texas told a U.S. Senate committee on Tuesday that more federal resources are needed to help states combat cyberthreats, including ransomware.

During the hearing, Senator Gary Peters of Michigan, the ranking Democratic committee member, noted at the hearing that while local and state governments are responsible for safeguarding elections and sensitive personal information, they don't always have the tools to defend against cyberthreats.

"Financial constraints, workforce challenges, and outdated equipment are all significant challenges for states and cities," Peters said.

"If Texas and other states do not have greater awareness of the threats which could affect us, we cannot be effective in stopping them." She called for the FBI to review whether more information about cyberthreats could be released to the states.

"We see the intent every day of trying to get everywhere across the state, particularly in the run-up to the elections, and I think it's just a matter of they need more boots on the ground, and they need a specific state representative to get more familiar with that state," DeRusha added.

News URL

https://www.inforisktoday.com/states-press-for-federal-resources-to-fight-cyberthreats-a-13714