Strength in Numbers: The Case for Whole-of-State Cybersecurity

The commentary argues that cyberattacks on government agencies have surged and that fragmented, resource-constrained public entities should adopt a Whole-of-State (WoS) cybersecurity model to centralize capabilities, share intelligence, and improve response. It recommends incremental steps such as security training, phishing awareness, and centralizing web traffic, leveraging DHS SLCGP funding, and highlights state examples (Oregon, Minnesota, Ohio, Massachusetts) to illustrate how WoS can unify defenses and strengthen resilience across municipalities.