Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
Local government leaders in Indiana express skepticism towards cybersecurity initiatives, but Indiana CIO Tracy Barnes emphasizes the importance of getting over this skepticism to strengthen cybersecurity in local government. Barnes believes that resistance often stems from fear of a surveillance state, but reassures skeptics that the technology department is there to provide support and resources. By addressing skepticism and providing support, Indiana is working towards improving cybersecurity in local government.
Indiana Chief Information Officer Tracy Barnes highlighted the skepticism expressed by local government leaders towards cybersecurity initiatives.
Barnes emphasized the importance of overcoming this skepticism to strengthen cybersecurity in local government.
Indiana Chief Information Officer Tracy Barnes spoke at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers midyear conference in National Harbor, Maryland, discussing the skepticism that local government leaders often express towards cybersecurity initiatives. Barnes noted that while some leaders may feel excitement or mundane interest in cybersecurity training initiatives, skepticism remains a prevalent emotion.
Barnes acknowledged that the momentum of cybersecurity efforts in local government is often hindered by pushback from leaders who fear a surveillance state. However, he reassured skeptics that Indiana’s technology department is available to provide support and resources. Barnes emphasized that the department’s goal is not to police or manage local government footprints, but rather to offer expertise and facilitate access to quality products and resources.
By addressing skepticism and providing support, Indiana is working towards improving cybersecurity in local government and ensuring that leaders are equipped with the necessary tools to protect their systems and data.
