Government agencies across the country, including in Illinois, are facing the difficult challenge of dealing with an alarming rise in cyberattacks. Recent data from the Center for Internet Security reveals a drastic increase in malware and ransomware attacks, with a 148 percent surge in malware incidents and a 51 percent rise in ransomware attacks during the first eight months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.

Several government offices in Illinois have been targeted by these cyber threats. Earlier this year, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office experienced a data security breach, and both Henry and Tazewell counties dealt with ransomware attacks that disrupted their daily operations. The growing trend of cyberattacks against governmental entities is of great concern for state and local governments as they strive to protect sensitive information and maintain critical services.

To that end, government agencies throughout the state and nation are strengthening their defenses by upgrading equipment, enhancing security awareness training, and collaborating at both state and federal levels to block known cyber threats.

While these efforts are crucial, cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. They target not only data systems but also technologies like drones used by law enforcement.

Senate Republicans say all government entities must take the threat of cyberattacks seriously and continue implementing proactive measures to prevent future incidents as protecting digital infrastructures from bad actors must remain a top priority.