Security News > 2023 > December > Tech upgrades for first responders are a necessity, not a luxury

Public safety professionals want technology upgrades and adoption of federal standards for first responder IT security, reporting and efficiency, according to Mark43.

"We heard a resounding response from first responders across the country: They are concerned about their public safety agency's ability to withstand cyberattacks and natural disasters, given the ever-increasing number and severity of bad actors attacking public infrastructure as well as the uptick in extreme weather incidents," said Matthew Polega, President, Mark43.

92% of first responders also are somewhat or very concerned about how their agencies would handle a tactical response to cyberattacks or physical attacks at large-scale events like sports games, concerts and conventions.

The vast majority of first responders are also very concerned about the impact of natural disasters and power grid failures on their agencies, with 84% reporting that such events can overwhelm public safety agencies and impact the service they deliver to their community.

"As we approach 2024, first responders expect public safety agencies to use modern technology solutions that are resilient and reliable so they can focus on keeping their communities safe," Polega said.

As a result, the ability of first responders to use handheld devices is becoming less of an added benefit for agencies and rather a necessity.

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/12/29/first-responders-cyberattacks-concerns/