June 20, 2024
Cyberattacks are evolving. In a world where digital vulnerabilities threaten the integrity of justice systems worldwide, cybersecurity measures are critical. Courts and judicial systems, entrusted with sensitive legal information, are prime targets for cyberattacks and therefore must prioritize the security of this critical information.
One effective way to reinforce cybersecurity defenses is through cybersecurity awareness training. Implementing mandatory training is beneficial to educate judges and court personnel about cybersecurity risks and best practices, phishing attacks, and the importance of strong passwords. Trends in State Courts’ Actionable Cybersecurity Risk Management emphasizes the importance of recognizing that cybersecurity is more than just information security. By prioritizing cybersecurity awareness and implementing targeted training programs, all employees can play a crucial role in protecting the integrity and security of judicial systems.
Start with the basics of why cybersecurity awareness training is important. Make it more engaging than “check-the-box” training by incorporating interactive elements like quizzes, simulations, and real-life scenarios, which facilitate better retention. Active exercises give employees the opportunity to practice identifying and responding to security threats in a controlled environment. To encourage ongoing learning and development in cybersecurity, provide technology tips, security awareness blogs, and subscriptions to technology platforms. Remind employees that they are the first line of defense against cyber threats and the training and lessons learned at work can help to protect them in their personal lives as well. Recognize employees who make good security decisions. A simple thank you can be enough.
Cybersecurity in the Courts takes a broad look at cybersecurity in the state courts and provides highlights from on-site assessments conducted to identify key areas where courts are vulnerable. Select courts were assessed using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) ratings and categories, which showed a lack of cybersecurity training. State courts are improving on this matter.
As awareness of cybersecurity grows, many states have enacted cybersecurity regulations. For example, Texas HB 1118 in 2021 mandated such training for local court and other officials. An Arizona court rule directs that all full-time judges and court personnel are to complete at least 16 credit hours of judicial education each year, including computer security/network security training. In the Maryland Judiciary’s Information Security Policy, they take responsibility to train users on security threats. The policy requires users to be trained at least once per year.
How often does your court provide cybersecurity awareness training for court personnel? For more information, see NCSC's cybersecurity page, contact Knowledge@ncsc.org, cyber@ncsc.org, or call 800-616-6164. Follow the National Center for State Courts on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Vimeo. For more Trending Topics posts, visit ncsc.org/trendingtopics and subscribe to the LinkedIn newsletter.