Strengthening cybersecurity in local government: A tech-powered approach
Those who serve in local government cannot escape the significance of cybersecurity, as threats multiply and the average cost of a ransomware attack now reaching millions.
Board management software can play a key role as a valuable ally for organizations in local government. It helps bolster defenses by offering secure communication, strengthening governance, and enabling better decision-making.
Taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity is the only way to prepare for inevitable cyberattacks.
How board management software enhances cybersecurity
Board solutions can play a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of your educational institution as you work within an increasingly complex environment. Here are some of the ways it enhances cybersecurity:
1. Secure communication
Board management platforms offer encrypted communication channels, ensuring that sensitive discussions related to cybersecurity, data breaches, or security incidents remain confidential and protected from eavesdropping.
2. Secure document storage
These platforms also provide secure document storage, reducing the risk of sensitive cybersecurity-related documents being mishandled or accessed by unauthorized individuals.
3. Controlled access
Access to board documents and discussions can be restricted to authorized personnel only, ensuring that sensitive information is accessible only to individuals who need it.
4. Real-time updates and meeting alerts
Council members and administrators can receive real-time updates on cybersecurity threats, incidents and mitigation strategies, allowing for immediate action and response.
Board management software can send meeting alerts and notifications, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are informed and can participate in discussions or decision-making processes.
5. Policy adoption and management
You can use your board management software to facilitate the review and approval of cyber policies and procedures, making it easier to keep these documents up-to-date and in compliance with evolving threats and regulations.
6. Supporting cybersecurity enforcement
By using board management software, you also enforce cyber-safe behavior by maintaining cybersecurity standards and helping to ensure that compliance measures are in place and followed.
7. Incident response planning
Board management software provides a centralized platform for documenting incidents, discussing response strategies, and tracking progress in addressing security breaches or vulnerabilities, which can all aid in incident response planning.
8. Training and education
Council members and administrators can use the platform to access cybersecurity training materials, guidelines and best practices to enhance their knowledge and awareness of cybersecurity threats and defenses.
9. Audit trails
A board management platform can maintain audit trails of cybersecurity-related discussions and decisions, providing transparency and accountability for governance and compliance purposes.
Benefits of using board management software to enhance cybersecurity practices
Using board management software can yield a range of a benefits for local government, when it comes to cybersecurity, including:
Data protection and risk mitigation
You can safeguard sensitive data, preventing unauthorized access and breaches, thereby preserving privacy and maintaining compliance with data protection regulations like FERPA or GDPR.
By providing a centralized platform for cybersecurity discussions and incident response planning, board management software helps identify, assess and mitigate risks effectively, reducing the potential impact of security incidents.
Improved decision-making and incident response
Real-time updates and secure communication facilitate informed decision-making on cybersecurity matters, allowing organizations to allocate resources more efficiently and make timely adjustments to policies and procedures.
A well-structured incident response plan supported by board management software can reduce downtime and minimize damage during security incidents, ensuring a faster return to normalcy.
Enhanced compliance and increased trust
Local government can uphold compliance with cybersecurity regulations and standards more efficiently, minimizing the risk of legal penalties and reputation damage.
Demonstrating a commitment to strong cybersecurity practices can enhance public trust in educational institutions, reassuring community stakeholders that their data is secure.
Operational continuity
Effective cybersecurity practices supported by board management software contribute to the uninterrupted operation of local government institutions, minimizing disruptions due to security incidents.
Improved awareness through training
Training and education information made accessible through board management software can raise cybersecurity awareness among council members, administration and staff, reducing the likelihood of human error in security practices.
Strategic alignment and long-term sustainability
By aligning cybersecurity initiatives with the overall strategic goals of the organization, institutions can maximize the impact of cybersecurity efforts on their mission and vision.
Board management software helps local government entities plan for the long-term sustainability of their cybersecurity practices, ensuring that systems are continuously updated and improved.
Final thoughts
By providing a secure and organized platform for communication, collaboration and governance, board management software contributes to a more robust cybersecurity posture.
Organizations can better protect their data, systems and sensitive information while fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and accountability among local council members and administrators.
We at Diligent understand the needs local government organizations face during times of rapid technological change. That is why Diligent Community is a cloud-based board management software that offers secure servers, the strongest level of encryption currently available and regular updates to ensure it remains the right choice for enhanced cybersecurity practices for the modern municipality.
