Idaho Updates Website, Creates InfoSec Role

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Idaho Governor Butch Otter has officially revamped the state website and is also setting new policies based on the recommendations of the state’s cybersecurity task force.

In a statement, the governor said that the website updates were designed to make information easier to find, while also highlighting the vast landscapes that are iconic to Wyoming. The website will also be responsive for use on mobile phones. The updates mark the 5th version of the official state website in the 20 years since the state first set up it’s online presence.

In addition, Otter has signed a new Executive Order that will create a new Director of Information Security position. The appointee to this role will lead efforts to detect, identify and thwart hacks on the State of Idaho’s computer networks. The Order further calls on state agencies to immediately adopt the most recent NIST Cybersecurity framework.

All executive branch agencies will also have to implement the first five Center for Internet Security Critical Controls (CIS Controls) and evaluate all state systems by June 30, 2018.

Under the Order, the State Department of Administration will begin annual penetration tests and vulnerability scans on state technology systems in order to craft response plans. The State Division of Human Resources is also tasked with creating a mandatory cybersecurity training program for all state employees.

“We learned this past year, firsthand, just how real the threat of cyberattacks is when the Department of Fish and Game’s licensing vendor was hacked. Having a comprehensive plan to protect the personal information of our citizens must be a top priority,” Governor Otter said.