No single entity can secure the nation alone from cyber-attacks; it requires a unified effort.
At CISA, we are committed to empowering communities to take an active role in safeguarding our shared digital future. For this reason, we championed the “Cyber Clinics” model as a promising, scalable solution for enhancing the cyber resilience of small organizations at the local level through the expertise of students studying to be the next generation of cyber defenders. Like free legal clinics staffed by law students, these cyber clinics help provide cybersecurity students hands-on experience by supporting their local communities with cyber support and guidance. We published a new guide in February 2024 highlighting CISA support available to cybersecurity clinics and their clients. It provides information related to informational briefings and partnerships, tools and services, and available grants. Our goal is to ensure that our partners have the right tools and resources to better protect and secure their respective communities.
In addition to this work, as part of our High-Risk Communities Protection effort, we launched a resource webpage which includes a cyber volunteer portal that highlights several cybersecurity clinics across the country. The goal is to connect expert volunteers with organizations that would benefit from receiving these services. CISA also published a comprehensive cybersecurity toolkit to help high-risk organizations assess their cybersecurity posture and take actionable steps to enhance it.
Finally, we launched Project Upskill, a program designed to empower vulnerable populations with straightforward guidance to strengthen their cybersecurity. Over the past year, we’ve taken this initiative nationwide, supporting regional events across the country to provide tailored support and deliver this critical guidance directly to at-risk communities.
In a world increasingly reliant on technology, each of us plays a vital role in strengthening cyber resilience. By taking proactive steps—like the four simple steps of cyber hygiene; by encouraging universities to consider starting cyber clinics; or supporting high-risk communities—we can all Secure Our World.
Michael McCarthy, External Affairs, CISA Region 1.
