Bismarck, N.D. | Chief Information Security Officer Kevin Ford announced today the State of North Dakota Information Technology Department is providing a free online cybersecurity risk and vulnerability assessment to help citizens increase their ability to protect themselves and their personal devices from cyber-attacks.
The Personal Security Risk and Vulnerability Assessment online tool is available now at Defend.nd.gov. The assessment tool is designed to help individuals and families determine their home and personal security risks, both technological and physical, to enhance protection for all individuals. It provides a report with recommendations to decrease any risks that may be detected.
“We’re providing a smart tool as part of our cybersecurity initiative to ensure we can help mitigate 21st-century security threats,” Ford said. “We can empower people, improve lives and inspire success by delivering citizen-focused solutions to keep North Dakotans secure.”
Cybersecurity Education and Public Awareness Manager Tony Aukland ushered in the program. Aukland said he supports the assessment based on data that changing user behavior through awareness training reduces security risks.
“We’re providing solutions to the people of North Dakota that educate and equip them to defend themselves against potential cyber-attacks,” Aukland said. “This assessment will provide an easy guide to strengthen personal devices and provide the know-how to prevent cyber-attacks.”
The tool is available at Defend.nd.gov under the “Personal Assessment” tab.
Topics addressed, but not limited to, include:
- Household Desktop and Laptop Use
- Safe Practices for Internet Usage
- Securing Mobile Devices
- Securing Wi-Fi
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C O N T A C T :
Jecca Geffre | 701-955-0304