Missouri State Auditor Calls for Increased Cybersecurity Awareness and Training for State Employees

The report by Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick highlights the urgent need for increased cybersecurity awareness and training for state employees. With the ever-evolving technology landscape, the risk of data breaches and hacking attempts has significantly increased, posing a threat to essential state services.

Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of creating a security-conscious culture within the state government to address cyber threats effectively. The audit report revealed that a significant number of employees did not complete the mandatory security awareness training, indicating a gap in the current policies and procedures.

To address this issue, the report recommends updating the security awareness training policy to include oversight procedures and clarify exemptions for certain employees. By implementing these changes, the state can better protect its resources and ensure that employees are equipped to handle potential cybersecurity threats.

The findings of the report underscore the critical need for ongoing cybersecurity training and awareness initiatives to safeguard state systems and data. As technology continues to advance, it is essential for the state to prioritize cybersecurity education to mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats.