A bill introduced Monday by state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D-Philadelphia) aims to protect the state’s cyber infrastructure from cyberattacks.
The bill would create a Cybersecurity Innovation Commission that would analyze security and privacy standards protocols, improve security and privacy standards, and conduct cybersecurity audits. The commission would also work with businesses to make sure they are equipped with the latest technology.
“From email and phone scams to personal data breaches, it is unconscionable the number of attempted cyberattacks occurring in Pennsylvania,” Kenyatta said. “With everyone constantly connected on their phones, computers and other electronic devices, the amount of potential attacks will only increase. We have to protect Pennsylvanians’ personal information and the creation of the Cybersecurity Innovation Commission would do just that.”
Pennsylvania ranks 18th in the United States for identity-theft cases, according to the Insurance Information Institute. In 2018, there were 18 billion cyberattacks in the state.
Officials with the Governor’s Office of Administration recently testified before the House Appropriations Committee that the office is following national federal guidelines and best practices to defend against cyberattacks.
In January, a panel of elected officials recommended implementing stronger cybersecurity procedures and replacing touchscreen voting machines to protect the state’s voter registration database.