Douglas County enhances cybersecurity with new protocols and training initiatives

In the heart of Douglas County, Kansas, the Board of County Commissioners convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss vital updates and initiatives that shape the county's technological landscape. As the meeting unfolded, the focus shifted to the county's IT infrastructure and cybersecurity measures, underscoring the importance of digital safety in an increasingly connected world.

The session began with a presentation highlighting recent advancements in the county's IT capabilities. A representative detailed the transition to a new hosting provider, which not only enhanced security but also improved engagement tracking on the county's website. This move aims to foster better collaboration among community members and partners, a crucial step in maintaining transparency and connectivity.

The discussion then turned to the county's robust network infrastructure, managed by a dedicated team responsible for telephony, printers, and all essential software installations. This team, often working behind the scenes, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that county operations run smoothly, from managing backups to overseeing cloud solutions.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to cybersecurity, a topic that has gained urgency in recent years. The county's cybersecurity manager presented alarming statistics from CrowdStrike, illustrating the rapid evolution of cyber threats. The average time to exploit a known vulnerability has dramatically decreased from 63 days in 2018 to just 5 days in 2024. This stark reduction emphasizes the need for swift action in patching vulnerabilities to safeguard county data.

Phishing attacks remain a prevalent threat, with the county's systems automatically quarantining around 30 suspicious emails daily. The IT team conducts regular phishing simulations to educate staff on recognizing potential threats, reinforcing a culture of vigilance among employees.

To further bolster security, the county employs a range of best practices and tools, including managed endpoint detection and response services. These measures ensure that any alerts are monitored and addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of breaches. Recent data revealed that approximately half of the traffic to the county's website was blocked for malicious intent, highlighting the ongoing battle against cyber threats.

The meeting also touched on the importance of incident response planning. A recent tabletop exercise with emergency management officials allowed department heads to discuss recovery strategies in the event of a cybersecurity incident. This proactive approach aims to prepare the county for potential crises, ensuring that all departments are aligned in their response efforts.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on cybersecurity training stood out as a key takeaway. Yearly training sessions for all staff, along with specialized training for those with privileged access, are integral to maintaining a secure environment. The county's commitment to continuous improvement in its IT infrastructure and cybersecurity measures reflects a broader understanding of the challenges posed by the digital age.

In a world where technology is ever-evolving, Douglas County is taking significant strides to protect its digital assets and ensure the safety of its community. The discussions held during this work session serve as a reminder of the critical role that cybersecurity plays in local governance and public trust.