Albany, NY (WRGB) — According to a release, Governor Hochul has announced the availability of $13.9 million in cybersecurity grants for local governments in New York State. The funding, part of the federal State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP), aims to bolster cyber defenses by providing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) tokens to eligible entities.

Hochul said,

From our bank accounts and social media to the critical infrastructure we rely on as a state, every facet of everyday life depends on a robust network of cybersecurity systems, I’m investing in modern cyber infrastructure and tools so New York stays ahead of emerging threats and to ensure that every New Yorker feels secure in the systems they count on.

The grants, stemming from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, will enable New York to procure and distribute MFA tokens to enhance cybersecurity across state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. New York State Chief Cyber Officer Colin Ahern emphasized the importance of MFA, stating,

Multi-factor authentication is one of the strongest defenses we have against online threats. Government services are delivered increasingly by, with, and through computers and protecting them from damaging cyber attacks has never been more important. With these investments, New York State is helping to reduce cyber risks and protecting New Yorkers from dangerous cyber attacks.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to protect critical infrastructure and government services from increasing cyber threats. New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray highlighted the urgency, noting,

The safe and secure functioning of our economy, critical infrastructure, and government services depends on our ability to protect digital infrastructure and sensitive information. However, as global cyberattacks increase in both frequency and sophistication, fueled in part by the professionalization of the global cybercrime industry, we must raise the bar for what is necessary to successfully defend systems and networks. Cybersecurity attacks remain one of the most critical threats to our residents, businesses and infrastructure. New York State remains committed to mitigating these threats through policy, educational resources, and financial resources aimed at protecting our communities. 

The program also extends to schools, with State Sen. Shelley B. Mayer expressing relief that educational institutions are now eligible for the grants, saying,

I’m pleased that our schools are now eligible for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant. This is a critical step toward easing the burden of purchasing cybersecurity tools for our education system. As schools become more digital and reliant on internetbased platforms, it is essential they have the tools to protect students, staff, and educators, and to keep their personal information secure from growing cyber threats. I thank the Governor for releasing this funding for both our local governments and schools to ensure every community has the opportunity to strengthen and maintain their cyber systems.