The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) held a Transportation Technology Committee meeting on September 27, 2023, focusing on cybersecurity measures and inter-agency collaboration. The meeting highlighted the importance of sharing information among various governmental entities to enhance transportation security.

A key discussion point was the role of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in providing free cybersecurity services, including vulnerability scanning for internet-accessible systems. Participants were informed about the weekly reports generated from these scans, which outline vulnerabilities and offer mitigation recommendations. CISA also emphasized the availability of various training programs related to cybersecurity, some of which are free, aimed at improving the preparedness of organizations against cyber threats.

The meeting also addressed the challenges of data sharing among different governmental bodies. Participants noted that while each jurisdiction operates independently, effective transportation technology relies on interconnected systems. CISA representatives suggested that external dependency management could facilitate better collaboration among agencies, allowing them to share cybersecurity information without compromising operational security.

CISA's ongoing efforts to build relationships with various agencies were acknowledged, with a focus on fostering a culture of collaboration rather than competition. The agency aims to provide guidance and options for consideration to enhance cybersecurity practices across jurisdictions.

In conclusion, the NVTA meeting underscored the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and inter-agency cooperation to protect transportation systems in Northern Virginia. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations and initiatives aimed at improving the region's cybersecurity posture.