On this page you will find the latest press releases and statements from the Office of Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
This proclamation encourages awareness around the ever-evolving issue of identifying, protecting, and responding to cyber threats
10/1/2019 12:56:34 PM
St. Paul, MN – On October 1, 2019, Governor Tim Walz proclaimed October 2019 “Cybersecurity Awareness Month” in the State of Minnesota. The proclamation, in conjunction with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, draws attention to the need for public education and action around this critical issue.
“Secure technology is critical to ensure that everything from our bank accounts to our elections are safe and protected,” said Governor Walz. “We’re making sure Minnesota is evolving by educating folks about emerging cybersecurity threats and making sure Minnesotans’ personal data is protected.”
“Minnesotans spend a significant amount of time on internet-based devices, whether they are helping children with homework, updating family through social media, or using their computers for work,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “It’s crucial that we understand how the devices we use every day can be at risk, and how to best protect ourselves and our families from these challenges.”
Minnesota IT Services will be sharing cybersecurity tips with the public on social media and educating state employees about best practices and the most recent threats to their valued information throughout the month. Some of MNIT’s efforts include visiting state agency offices to distribute materials that contain safety tips and reporting procedures, encouraging employees to better protect their accounts, and coordinating an internal messaging campaign to help state employees recognize suspicious emails and report them right away.
“Every Minnesotan is capable of becoming better about protecting their information,” said Commissioner Tarek Tomes . “Whether it is looking at the privacy settings of your social media accounts, understanding how a ransomware attack can impact critical services, or utilizing more secure password technology such as multifactor authentication, we all have a part to play in ensuring that information is secure.”
While Minnesota IT Services will continue to protect citizen data and state systems, you can do your partner by learning about cybersecurity tips you can use at home. Check out advice from MNIT’s Chief Information Security Officer, Aaron Call, on:
