Replies and Critical analysis needed

This brief is to discuss the state’s plan for improving cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructures. Cybersecurity is the protection and proper management of cyber data; the information maintained and transferred through internet technology (I.T.) (UMUC, 2016). Such protection is implemented through protection software, business rules and processes and best practices by data handlers. A simple explanation, Critical Infrastructure represents the physical ad virtual entities that are most critical in the fluent operation of a community; these structures are essentially the life line of a state. Critical Infrastructure provide the essential personnel services as well as functionality a state needs to operate. A few examples of Critical Infrastructure are medical facilities, utility companies, financial institutions, water sources and emergency services (Carmen Ferro, 2010). We are working aggressively to protect these infrastructures against all threats.

A threat is any occurrence, meek or severe, that will hinder the wellness of our Critical Infrastructures. Threats can come in the form of contamination (to water sources), electrical blackouts, bank system or the breach of a bank system.

We will guard against these attacks by identifying the Critical Infrastructures in our state. After they have been identified we will conduct assessment to pinpoint weaknesses. We will then develop methods and processes to protect infrastructure vulnerabilities. Considering a large percentage of critical infrastructure are owned by private business, we will partner with owners in an effort to consolidate security efforts. Our government will ensure that we are fully aware of our role in the protection processes and ensure key personnel are trained to perform their assigned task  (Carmen Ferro, 2010).         

In the past the government has taken, what has proven to be, valuable steps towards develop sound systems to develop and protect infrastructure. In 2015 the National Governors Association published a policy letter governing transportation and infrastructure. The policy letter spelled out the nation’s vision to provide efficient transportation of various modes to assist citizens in moving freely throughout country. The letter discussed strategy for partnership, infrastructure, funding and more (National Governer's Association, 2015).      

 

References

Carmen Ferro, D. H. (2010, November). The Governer's Guide to Homeland Security. Retrieved from National Governer's Association: http://www.nga.org/files/live/sites/NGA/files/pdf/1011GOVGUIDEHS.PDF

National Governer's Association. (2015, February 23). Transportaton & Infrastructure . Retrieved from National Governer's Association: http://www.nga.org/cms/home/federal-relations/nga-policy-positions/page-edc-policies/col2-content/main-content-list/transportation-and-infrastructur.html

UMUC. (2016). Cybersecurity. Retrieved from UMUC: http://www.umuc.edu/cybersecurity/about/cybersecurity-basics.cfm