MS-ISAC Cyber Security Operations Center for State, Local, Territorial and Tribal Governments Launched
The Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) today announced the launch of its new state-of-the-art cyber security operations center. The MS-ISAC, a division of the Center for Internet Security, is the focal point for cyber threat prevention, protection, response and recovery for the nation’s state, local, territorial and tribal (SLTT) governments.
East Greenbush, NY (PRWEB) November 18, 2010
The Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) today announced the launch of its new state-of-the-art cyber security operations center. The MS-ISAC, a division of the Center for Internet Security, is the focal point for cyber threat prevention, protection, response and recovery for the nation’s state, local, territorial and tribal (SLTT) governments.
The 24-hour watch and warning center provides real-time network monitoring, dissemination of early cyber threat warnings, vulnerability identification and mitigation, along with education and outreach aimed at reducing risk to the nation’s SLTT government cyber domain.
The MS-ISAC coordinates closely with the U. S. Department of Homeland Security through its National Cyber Security Division and U. S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team, providing a vital link between and among the SLTT governments and with the federal government.
Howard A. Schmidt, Cybersecurity Coordinator for the White House, provided remarks and was joined by Rear Admiral Michael A. Brown, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Cyber Security and Communications, National Protection and Programs Directorate, U. S. Department of Homeland Security, in cutting the ribbon for the official launch of the cyber security operations center. Other federal, state and local officials were also on hand to mark the occasion.
“The cybersecurity of our nation depends on collaboration across all levels of government and the private sector and the launch of the new MS-ISAC cyber security operations center is a significant step forward towards enhancing the cybersecurity of our state, local, territorial and tribal partners,” said Mr. Schmidt.
Through the new cyber security operations center, the MS-ISAC will be able to provide direct managed and monitored security services to a greater number of SLTT governments. This expanded infrastructure will provide a representative sample of system and network activity for enhancing situational awareness of SLTT government networks across the country. It will also enable more timely cyber incident identification and response while providing more resources for developing and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies tailored specifically to SLTT government cyber resources.
"The ever-changing cyber threat landscape underscores the need for an efficient and flexible organization to help our state and local governments detect, prevent, respond to and recover from cyber attacks," said Governor David A. Paterson. "The MS-ISAC cyber security operations center, headquartered in New York State, provides a central resource for information-sharing and incident response and is improving the cyber security posture not only of New York, but for state and local governments across the nation."
“The dangers in cyberspace continue to increase in volume, complexity and severity for SLTT governments,” said William Pelgrin, President and CEO of the Center for Internet Security (CIS). “The services provided through the new MS-ISAC cyber security operations center are helping to provide a more comprehensive picture of the cyber threat landscape, enabling more effective and timely identification, prevention and mitigation of cyber incidents impacting SLTT governments. Our partnership with the US Department of Homeland Security has been invaluable in the overall strategy to improve the SLTT government cyber posture.”
“CIS is fulfilling the vital need for enhanced collaboration between the public and private sectors and its new cyber security operations center will facilitate even greater ability to provide real-time cyber security threat analysis and response to improve our nation’s collective cyber security posture,” said John Gilligan, Chairman, CIS Board of Directors.
Senator Charles E. Schumer said: “The threat of cyber terrorism against American computer systems is growing day by day. This new center in East Greenbush will make significant strides toward enhancing our country’s cybersecurity and will solidify the Capital Region as a center of cyber security development, laying the groundwork for good-paying, high-tech job growth.”
Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey said: “What began as an informal effort among a few states in 2003 has become a critical link between the US Department of Homeland Security and state and local officials on the front lines in sharing cyber security information. To Will Pelgrin and the entire MS-ISAC, your work is invaluable in keeping our country safe. I look forward to continuing to work with the MS-ISAC to ensure that this effort gets the resources it needs to continue to improve the nation’s cyber security posture.”
Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke said: “Congratulations on the opening of the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) Cyber Security Operations Center. This center will be a great tool in protecting our nation against cyber attacks and play a critical role in educating the public on the importance of securing our cyber infrastructure. I applaud William Pelgrin, Chair of the MS-ISAC for his outstanding leadership, determination and hard work in opening this center. I look forward to seeing this great center run in its full capacity as this nation improves its ability to protect ourselves from cyber threats.”
Congressman Paul D. Tonko said: “The new Cyber Security Operations Center will help provide state and local governments with the resources to greatly improve their cyber security and response to attacks. This public-private partnership is a critical piece that will enhance our national security outcome.”
Senator Eric L. Adams said: “As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, I want to congratulate the Center for Internet Security and its division, the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), on the inauguration of this new state-of-the-art cyber security operations center. I have had the great pleasure of working with Will Pelgrin and other members of the Center for Internet Security during their tenure at the New York State Cyber Security and Critical Infrastructure Center; I am delighted that they will bring their professionalism and expertise to the new MS-ISAC. It is critical that our state have an effective monitor for cyber threat prevention, protection, response, and recovery, and the MS-ISAC will be an invaluable partner in assisting state, local, territorial, and tribal governments. Every New Yorker will gain from the security services managed by the new center, benefit from the close operational relationship it has with federal, local, and other state cyber security agencies, and profit from improved collaboration between the public and private sectors. I look forward to continuing our productive relationship and wish the new center well."
Assembly Majority Leader Ronald Canestrari said: "As cutting-edge technology continues to advance in today's ever-emerging information age, cyber security is more critical than ever. I am excited to welcome the MS-ISAC headquarters and the jobs the center will create to the Capital District and the heart of Tech Valley."
Assemblywoman RoAnn M. Destito said: “As Chair of the Assembly Standing Committee on Governmental Operations, I am looking forward to the work being done at the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) Cyber Security Operations Center which will protect critical organizations from cyber threats and attacks. This public-private collaboration will demonstrate to the nation and the world that New York State is a leader in cyber security excellence, and this endeavor will provide new jobs and economic development opportunities for future generations throughout our state.”
Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino said: "As our reliance on technology grows, so too does the threat created by those looking to use that technology in a malicious manner. We have all heard the horror stories from those who have fallen victim to identity theft, as well as the economic losses suffered when a businesses computer system is compromised or disabled by a virus making the work this cyber security center does vital to us all. I thank the leadership of this organization for recognizing the benefits of opening this facility right here in Rensselaer County and I feel strongly that this grand opening is testament to our region’s bright economic future."
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