South Dakota launches $7M cybersecurity program to protect local governments

Program will make state a leader in cybersecurity

South Dakota is taking action to help local governments protect themselves from cyber attacks. The Municipal Cybersecurity Grant Program is supported by $7 million from Senate Bill 187, which passed last winter.

The program provides local governments with tools like secure email systems, technical support, risk assessments, and training to strengthen their defenses. The South Dakota Attorney General’s Office will oversee the program. Dakota State University (DSU), a leader in cybersecurity, will help carry it out.

Leadership announced

Attorney General Marty Jackley and DSU recently introduced Mike Waldner as the program’s director. Waldner, a longtime state employee, has led major projects like South Dakota’s first internet connection and the ConnectSD broadband initiative.

“Cybersecurity is vital for the safety and security of our communities,” Jackley said. “We look forward to working with DSU and Mike Waldner to ensure every municipality in our state has the resources it needs to defend against cyber threats.”

Waldner began his new role on November 18 and expressed his dedication to the program. “It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative that will have a real impact on the security of South Dakota’s communities,” he said.

Uniform cybersecurity standards

Larger cities often have cybersecurity protocols in place. Smaller towns may lack the resources to create their own systems. The grant program aims to fix this by setting up consistent cybersecurity standards for all local governments.

One big change will be the switch to a centralized email system. Commercial email accounts will no longer be used for official government business. This system will be similar to the one already used by South Dakota’s K-12 schools.

Building on past programs

South Dakota cities and counties already have access to Project Boundary Fence, a free cybersecurity assessment program also run by the Attorney General’s Office and DSU. The new grant program will take things further by focusing on implementing solutions, not just identifying risks.

The funds will be used to improve cybersecurity infrastructure and technology that protect local governments’ information. This effort is especially important as cyberattacks on municipalities are on the rise. In 2023, the Center for Internet Security reported a 51% increase in ransomware attacks targeting state and local governments.

Looking ahead

The program has an advisory council made up of experts from state agencies, DSU, law enforcement, counties, and federal cybersecurity industries. District 8 Senator and Heartland Director of Economic Development Casey Crabtree sponsored Senate Bill 187. He said the program is a “significant advancement for South Dakota’s cybersecurity.”

“This program will provide essential resources and support to protect our communities from evolving cyber threats,” Crabtree said.

With strong leadership and a clear mission, the Municipal Cybersecurity Grant Program will help make South Dakota a leader in protecting its local governments from cyberattacks.