State Of Maryland To Assess The Reliability And Security Of Its 911 Network Infrastructure
Project will help the state understand its PSAPs' cyber risks and prepare for NG911 transition
STATE COLLEGE, Pa., March 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Mission Critical Partners (MCP), a leading provider of consulting and co-managed services for mission-critical infrastructure, along with partner SecuLore Solutions, a Maryland-based cyber security company focused on public safety, has been selected to complete a dynamic 911 network discovery for all public safety answering points (PSAPs) in the state of Maryland. A second component of the project is to complete an in-depth cyber security evaluation of its PSAPs with the goal of protecting them against external and internal threats.
The project will generate greater visibility into Maryland's 911 infrastructure, applications and databases, which are growing in complexity and sophistication as the state transitions to Next Generation 911 (NG911), a broadband, internet-protocol (IP)-based system that enables the transmission of real-time text, images, video and voice calls. While this transition brings tremendous benefits, such as the potential for faster and more efficient emergency response, it also creates increased risks that PSAPs must understand and actively manage to protect against intentional and unintentional threats. For example, in the last 24 months alone, 145 cyber incidents have affected public safety agencies in 43 states.
MCP and SecuLore Solutions will provide the following tasks on behalf of the Maryland Emergency Number Systems Board (ENSB):
- Complete a dynamic network and asset discovery to create an up-to-date infrastructure and asset database that reveals single points of failure, vulnerabilities and security risks
- Analyze the future need for PSAPs to proactively protect their networks while migrating to NG911 technology
- Execute an in-depth cyber security evaluation called CyberBenchmark™ to determine the PSAPs level of risk
"We support Maryland's vision to be confident in the security, information and documentation surrounding its 911 infrastructure," said Kevin Murray, MCP's chief executive officer and cofounder. "Taking this proactive approach will help them be better prepared for their upcoming transition to NG911, and safeguard against threats that could disable them or interrupt their ability to serve the citizens of Maryland."
"As evidenced by the cyber-attacks we've seen across the country, we know legacy systems are at risk, and in moving to an all IP NG911 system, there are new and different vulnerabilities for which public safety will need to be prepared," said Tim Lorello, SecuLore Solution's chief executive officer and president. "We are proud to support our state's effort to take this important step in getting PSAPs and their IT teams the cybersecurity resources they need."
The PSAPs supported by the Maryland ENSB serve more than 6 million residents and visitors and process more than 5 million emergency calls annually.
About Mission Critical Partners (MCP)
Mission Critical Partners (MCP) is a professional and co-managed services firm that helps clients enhance and evolve their public safety systems and operations through our extensive experience, knowledge and resources. By providing insight and support every step of the way, our clients are able to transform their mission critical operations, maximizing the value of their investments and ensuring optimal performance and success. Additional information and career opportunities are available at www.MissionCriticalPartners.com.
About SecuLore Solutions
SecuLore Solutions is a cyber security company focused on public safety. Combining public safety knowledge with deep cyber security expertise, SecuLore's technology is inspired by an understanding of how hackers operate, which provides unique perspectives to better thwart cyber attackers. Based upon FCC, DHS & NIST best practices, SecuLore provides cybersecurity services including Paladin™, CyberBenchmark™, cybersecurity training, and free webinars – all focused on empowering public safety agencies and their IT teams to better safeguard our 911 network and resources. To learn more, visit www.SecuLore.com.
SOURCE Mission Critical Partners
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