DHS Toss In $1 Billion Investment In Cybersecurity For State And Local Governments
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Friday a $1 billion investment that will help fund its first-ever cyber grant program tailored specifically for the state, local and territorial governments across the U.S.
The funds will help these governments address cybersecurity risks, including identifying key vulnerabilities, mitigating threats, and strengthening critical infrastructure.
DHS $1 Billion Allotment Spread Over Four Years
The total sum will last over four years. Of the entire fund, the DHS will make $185 million available for 2022. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said the cyberattacks are a huge threat to the nation.
He added that to combat this risk, it is important to reinforce the nation’s cybersecurity, which includes resourcing nations and nearby groups to construct and enhance their cyber defenses.
Eligible candidates have 60 days to apply for the grant, which they use to fund new or current cybersecurity programs. The program appears to be on track as the U.S. has experienced several cyberattacks already this year.
Educational Sectors Hit Frequently By CyberAttack
Hackers target crucial sectors and nearby groups, including schools. An example of this was the Los Angeles school district, which said it was hit by a ransomware attack. The district said the attack disrupted its email system and other technological services.
Following the attack on the L.A. school district, the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a joint advisory warning that cyberattacks against schools may increase as the academic year begins.
The agency said a criminal syndicate known as the Vice Society is disproportionately targeting the education sector with ransomware attacks. School districts with limited cybersecurity capabilities and constrained resources are often the most vulnerable.
However, opportunistic targeting often seen by cybercriminals can still put school districts with robust cybersecurity programs at risk, which is why the grant is necessary.
President Biden signed the grant into the bill in accordance with the State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act.
