October 2, 2023 (Saint Paul, MN) - Governor Tim Walz /mnit/assets/Cybersecurity%20Awareness%20Month%20Proclamation%202023_tcm38-593837.pdfproclaimed October 2023 as “Cybersecurity Awareness Month” in the State of Minnesota. The proclamation, coordinated with the 20th Anniversary of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, reminds Minnesotans about the importance of cybersecurity education and awareness for everyone.

The State of Minnesota uses a /mnit/about-mnit/security/whole-of-state-cybersecurity-plan/index.jspwhole-of-state approach to protect the information of our citizens, residents, and visitors and keep critical systems running. Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) prevents, monitors, detects, and coordinates with federal and local governments to respond to cyber threats targeting state systems and services.

The need to identify, protect against, and respond to cyber threats continues to grow as critical infrastructure increasingly relies on the support of information systems and technology.  While it may seem overwhelming, every Minnesotan can take steps to ensure the safety of themselves, their families, and their businesses.

“By adopting some important best practices, Minnesotans can protect themselves against rising cyber threats. While it may seem complex, taking simple steps can make a difference. Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, keep your devices updated, and stay on the lookout for phishing attacks. The little things matter when it comes to personal protection online.”

Tarek Tomes, MNIT Commissioner and State of Minnesota Chief Information Officer

Throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month, MNIT will also share cybersecurity tips on social media to generate public awareness about protecting your personal digital information, securely using artificial intelligence tools, and staying safe online. Additionally, MNIT will educate state employees about cybersecurity best practices and reporting procedures through an internal messaging campaign.

###

About Minnesota IT Services

Minnesota IT Services, led by the state’s Chief Information Officer, is the Information Technology agency for Minnesota’s executive branch, providing enterprise and local IT services to over 70 agencies, boards, and commissions. MNIT employs more than 2,400 people. Together, we build, maintain, and secure the State’s IT infrastructure, applications, projects, and services. MNIT sets IT strategy, direction, policies, and standards for enterprise IT leadership and planning. We also serve Minnesotans by connecting all 87 counties, 300 cities, and 200 public higher education campuses across the state on the MNET network. Through public-private partnerships, our team proactively protects the state’s information systems and the private data of 5.7 million Minnesotans.