Learn to secure your local government’s networks with this one-of-a-kind resource
In Cybersecurity and Local Government, a distinguished team of researchers delivers an insightful exploration of cybersecurity at the level of local government. The book makes a compelling argument that every local government official, elected or otherwise, must be reasonably knowledgeable about cybersecurity concepts and provide appropriate support for it within their governments. It also lays out a straightforward roadmap to achieving those objectives, from an overview of cybersecurity definitions to descriptions of the most common security challenges faced by local governments.
The accomplished authors specifically address the recent surge in ransomware attacks and how they might affect local governments, along with advice as to how to avoid and respond to these threats. They also discuss the cybersecurity law, cybersecurity policies that local government should adopt, the future of cybersecurity, challenges posed by Internet of Things, and much more.
Throughout, the authors provide relevant field examples, case studies of actual local governments, and examples of policies to guide readers in their own application of the concepts discussed within.
Cybersecurity and Local Government also offers: - A thorough introduction to cybersecurity generally, including definitions of key cybersecurity terms and a high-level overview of the subject for non-technologists. - A comprehensive exploration of critical information for local elected and top appointed officials, including the typical frequencies and types of cyberattacks. - Practical discussions of the current state of local government cybersecurity, with a review of relevant literature from 2000 to 2021. - In-depth examinations of operational cybersecurity policies, procedures and practices, with recommended best practices.
Perfect for local elected and top appointed officials and staff as well as local citizens, Cybersecurity and Local Government will also earn a place in the libraries of those studying or working in local government with an interest in cybersecurity.
Table of Contents
Preface ix
About the Authors xi
1 Why Local Government Cybersecurity? 1
2 What is Cybersecurity? 17
3 Cybersecurity 101 for Local Governments 27
4 What the Literature Says About Local Government Cybersecurity 47
5 Cyberattacks: Targetting Local Government 67
6 Managing Local Government Cybersecurity 85
7 Cybersecurity Policies for Local Government 113
8 People: The Root of The Problem 143
9 The NIST Cybersecurity Framework Demystified 151
10 Cybersecurity Law and Regulation for Local Government 167
11 Important Questions to Ask 187
12 The Future of Local Government Cybersecurity 201
13 Summary and Recommendations 227
Index 235