CyberSafety

The information contained in this article is not intended as legal advice and may no longer be accurate due to changes in the law. Consult NHMA's legal services or your municipal attorney. 

From Access to Impact:  How small cyber incidents lead to big community impacts

When we think of "data hygiene," we often think of annoying password resets or software updates. But what is missing from these reminders is the context that a single, "small" security oversight can spiral into a major public safety event. Cyber hygiene is the first line of defense for our critical infrastructure.  By securing the "initial access" points—like using MFA and spotting malicious documents—we aren't just protecting data; we're protecting hospitals, water treatment plants, personal identities, and financial stability. In collaboration with The ATOM Group, The Overwatch Foundation created the below graphic to better illustrate this. The path from a simple phishing email to the interruption of critical public services is shorter than you think. 

It is this sobering reality that motivated the design of all Overwatch Foundation turnkey cybersecurity “in a box” programs. Each “box” is designed to not only contain all the core technologies and training your community may need to reach a safer baseline, but we also offer every layer of support your community may need to complete the full rollout of these measures. No community’s risks or needs are the same, but our efforts and program offerings are the same so that we can reach a Statewide baseline. 

At present, we have free, grant-funded cybersecurity programs for K-12, drinking and wastewater, and local government sectors that are available to every state and local New Hampshire municipality. Reach out to us at www.overwatch.org/apply to learn more about how we can help you protect your community.