Providence, RI - Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced the first statewide cyber security strategic plan to ensure that Rhode Island is prepared for and can take steps to prevent a loss of cyber connectivity. A heavy reliance of technology by citizens and a focused effort to move Rhode Island state government into the 21st century with modern capabilities demands a statewide, measured approach to protecting private information while maintaining government operations. The strategic plan, developed over the past few months by a team comprised of state government officials, outlines policies and procedures to respond to a cyber disruption that meets four goals: (i) sustainability of government operations; (ii) education of the public and business community; (iii) cyber defense; and (iv) economic and workforce development. The strategic plan will be further refined and implemented over the coming months with the help of key external stakeholders to ensure proper cyber security training and awareness, a clear communications plan in the event of a cyber disruption, improved cyber resiliency of state networks, and support for the growth of a cyber security industry in the state. Governor Chafee said, "I am very pleased to announce the very first cyber security strategic plan for the state of Rhode Island. With constantly evolving and ever more sophisticated technologies, it is imperative to make sure that the state can sustain government operations, educate the public on steps to protect their information, and defend itself against potential cyber threats. I am committed to finding ways to continuously improve and protect government so that we can best serve the people of Rhode Island." General Kevin McBride, Adjutant General of the Rhode Island National Guard, added, "I am pleased that Governor Chafee has made cyber security a priority for the state of Rhode Island. This strategic plan was developed with input from major stakeholders in state government to ensure we have a coordinated approach to minimizing cyber disruptions." Colonel Steven O'Donnell, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police, added, "This is a tremendous step forward by Governor Chafee to ensure Rhode Island is properly trained to respond to emergency incidents that may threaten the continuity of government operations." John "Jack" Landers, the State Chief Information Officer, said, "There are many challenges to securing information technology in state government, but under Governor Chafee's leadership, the state has a clear plan in place to maintain critical government operations in the event of a cyber security disruption."
