Cybersecurity in Virginia has become a major point of discussion in recent years for the public sector and private businesses alike, as more and more organizations in the state strive to ensure the security of data belonging to their customers and of the information critical to their businesses. To adequately prepare for the risks associated with cybersecurity threats, Virginia public and private sector organizations are actively engaging with educational initiatives and conventions to foster awareness and knowledge.
Virginia is a leader in the field of cybersecurity, featuring six National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAEs) which specialize in cyber defense and information assurance research. The state is also home to a selection of noteworthy cyber-focused events and conferences. For example, Virginia’s annual cybersecurity conference, Digital Forensics and Incident Response Symposium (DFIRST), attracts thousands of thought leaders and experts from a variety of industries around the globe.
In a bid to maintain its prominence in the cybersecurity space, the Virginia Cybersecurity Commission was formed in 2017 to provide advice and counsel to the state concerning issues related to cybersecurity.
In addition, the Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA) provides centralized services in the areas of cyber security, infrastructure, and information technology to state agencies.
The Cyber Command at Joint Forces Headquarters in Hampton Roads provides operational support to the Virginia Defense Force and is responsible for executing security operations involving the defense of the Virginia information technology infrastructure.
The State of Virginia is also one of the few U.S. states to have PEN-certified cybersecurity professionals. This certification program allows students and job seekers to gain recognition and expertise in the field.
Virginia remains at the forefront of cyber defense and the safeguarding of critical data and infrastructure. Organizations in the state are presented with a wealth of resources and events to stay ahead of cybersecurity trends and developments and are actively engaging with the general public to raise awareness.