In New Hampshire, a groundbreaking collaboration is underway to bolster the cybersecurity defenses of community drinking water systems. Rather than waiting for federal mandates, the state's IT department has joined forces with the Department of Environmental Services and CISA to evaluate the cyber readiness of these vital systems.

According to cybersecurity experts familiar with the initiative, New Hampshire boasts numerous small-scale water systems that cater to fewer than 3,000 consumers. Proactive measures are being put in place to ensure that these systems are adequately protected against cyber threats. The focus is on assessing cyber maturity levels and implementing robust security measures that can safeguard these critical infrastructures in the face of potential cyber attacks.

By taking the lead in assessing and fortifying the cybersecurity posture of smaller water systems, New Hampshire is setting a commendable example for other states to follow. This proactive approach underscores the importance of preemptive cybersecurity measures in safeguarding essential services and upholding public safety. As threats in the digital landscape continue to evolve, initiatives like these play a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure across the country.

FAQ Section:

1. What is the groundbreaking collaboration happening in New Hampshire?Answer: In New Hampshire, a collaboration between the state's IT department, Department of Environmental Services, and CISA is underway to enhance the cybersecurity defenses of community drinking water systems.

2. Why are cybersecurity experts focusing on small-scale water systems in New Hampshire?Answer: New Hampshire has numerous small-scale water systems serving fewer than 3,000 consumers, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. Proactive measures are being implemented to protect these systems.

3. What is the goal of assessing cyber readiness levels in the water systems?Answer: The aim is to evaluate the cyber maturity levels of the systems and implement robust security measures to safeguard them against potential cyber attacks.

4. What example is New Hampshire setting for other states?Answer: By taking the lead in fortifying the cybersecurity posture of smaller water systems, New Hampshire is demonstrating the importance of preemptive cybersecurity measures in safeguarding essential services.

5. How do initiatives like the one in New Hampshire help enhance critical infrastructure resilience?Answer: Such initiatives are crucial in adapting to evolving cyber threats and strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure nationwide.

Key Definitions:

1. Cybersecurity: The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks.2. CISA: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, a federal agency responsible for enhancing cybersecurity resilience in the U.S.

Related Links:New Hampshire's Official Website