ASK THE EXPERTS
Cybersecurity Best Practices for Local Agencies
By Jennifer Saha, CEO, Technology Industry Association of California
S
ummer is nearing, and the Golden State is continuing to relax COVID-19 restrictions. In time, Californians will begin an exodus out of their homes and into campgrounds and state parks, enjoying the state’s natural wonders with a renewed appreciation. But with such a transition period, there may be bad actors waiting to take advantage of unsuspecting Californians aiming to put 2020 behind them. Cybersecurity must become a greater priority to keep up with an influx of online transactions and exposure to new networks. 10
Agencies and constituents should take steps to learn more about threats, including finding resources to guide them toward safer cyber practices. These actions alone are no substitute for consulting a trained professional who can help you navigate a specific scenario. Here are three ways to mitigate cybersecurity risks this summer:
Be Wary of Pineapple Devices
As COVID-19 restrictions continue to lift this summer, campers, vacationers, and just about anyone on the move will be accessing new Wi-Fi networks for the first time. However, not all these Wi-Fi networks are what they claim to be. Enter the Wi-Fi pineapple. First released by tech company Hak5 in 2008, the Wi-Fi pineapple was designed to allow “penetration testers” to attack public Wi-Fi
California Special Districts • May-June 2021
