For 911 centers and Emergency Communications Centers (ECCs), maintaining a robust cybersecurity posture is essential. In these critical environments, any vulnerability can pose a direct risk to public safety. One of the most effective ways to secure your systems is through regular software updates and patches.
Security Flaws and Emergency Safety Systems
A 2023 study found nearly 60% of public safety organizations do not patch systems regularly.
In 2023, there was a significant increase in zero-day exploits, with 97 observed vulnerabilities, over 50% more than in 2022. Public safety organizations, including 911 centers and Emergency Communications Centers (ECCs), were particularly affected due to the growing complexity of their systems and the rise in targeted cyberattacks against critical infrastructure. Cybercriminals have increasingly focused on enterprise technologies, exploiting vulnerabilities in platforms that support these essential services.
SecuLore reported over 55 cyberattacks on public safety agencies within the last two years.
As part of CISA’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s important to emphasize that staying current with updates helps to close security gaps and protect sensitive data, including the critical information managed by public safety organizations.
CISA’s 2023 report found that regular patches are one of the most effective measures to protect against cyber threats.
Software updates and patches are essential for fixing vulnerabilities that cybercriminals often exploit.
By regularly updating systems, including those used for call logging and recording, public safety organizations can significantly reduce the risk of a breach. This is especially important for 911 centers and ECCs, which handle vast amounts of sensitive, time-critical data. The ripple effect of a cyberattack could be devastating, potentially interrupting critical services or exposing sensitive information.
A 911 center experienced a ransomware attack in 2023 due to unpatched software, causing the center significant disruptions and manually operating for hours.
Software Updates and Your Logging Recorder
Logging recorders play a crucial role in the daily operations of 911 centers, making it vital to ensure they are secure. Exacom understands the importance of cybersecurity, taking a proactive and comprehensive approach to protect these systems.
By incorporating cloud-native technology, Exacom ensures that their logging solutions are not only flexible but also built with security in mind, making sure they are equipped to handle the ever-evolving cyber threats facing public safety organizations.
Cloud-native technology brings several cybersecurity benefits to public safety organizations.
It allows for more rapid deployment of security patches and updates across all systems, providing enhanced protection against vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, cloud-native solutions offer scalability and resilience, which are essential for supporting the dynamic needs of public safety communication systems. With Exacom’s cloud-native logging recorder solutions, 911 centers and ECCs can be confident that their data is secure, accessible, and protected from emerging threats.
Applying software updates and patches is a critical aspect of public safety cybersecurity. By keeping systems up to date, 911 centers can safeguard their operations against evolving threats.
Tips for Software Patching
- Establish policies for applying patches and software updates
- Watch for notifications
- Test any patches or updates BEFORE deploying in controlled environment
- Install updates as soon as possible
- Make sure you understand your vendors patching and update policies before making them part of your systems
Exacom’s cybersecurity-focused, cloud-native logging solutions offer public safety organizations the tools they need to stay secure and ensure uninterrupted service.
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, remember that cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous commitment to protecting what matters most.