AUBURN, Ala. (WSFA) – More than a third of local government agencies across the country were hit by ransomware last year — and cybersecurity leaders say many small towns are especially vulnerable.
Nick Sellers with Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security says the rise of artificial intelligence is making attacks more frequent and more sophisticated.
“When a cyberattack hits a small community, the consequences can go far beyond a frozen computer screen,” Sellers said. Critical services like water systems could be disrupted, utility billing could be shut down, and public safety systems could be impacted.
IBM reports the average cost of a data breach topped $10 million last year.
To help local governments prepare, Auburn University is offering a free resource: the Alabama Cybersecurity Intelligence Center.
Sellers says the center provides communities with real-time support and guidance — “not if, but when” a cyberattack happens.
Cybersecurity engineers and Auburn students monitor the networks of more than 140 Alabama cities and counties 24/7 at no cost to those communities. Sellers says that around-the-clock monitoring is one of the most important tools the program can provide.
The services are funded through a $19 million federal grant, meaning local governments do not have to pay to participate.
Sellers says working together also strengthens defenses statewide.
“Attackers attack across a campaign — and defenders are usually defending one city in isolation,” Sellers said. “But together, if they join us, we can make each other safer.”
If your city is interested in these free services, you can find more information at: slcgp.alabama.gov.
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