BCAT News

The Town of Burlington’s Informational Systems Security Advisory Committee (ISSAC) is currently seeking candidates for membership.

The ISSAC Committee was created in 2020 and it made up of four town IT experts and five town residents with backgrounds in cybersecurity. 

Municipalities are often the subject of cybersecurity attacks, according to ISSAC Chair David Hughes. “In today’s environment, the operative question is not will my town be attacked, but when will the attack occur, and how severe will the consequences be,” Hughes said. “Burlington is a wonderful town, and our committee members find it rewarding to help the town improve its defenses and plan for an effective cyber incident response.”

Hughes went on to explain the goal of the committee is “to help the town reduce its vulnerability. Part of the challenge is technical, but there is also a human element, which is often the more challenging dimension. In this regard, our committee has focused on strengthening the cybersecurity awareness of all employees.”

Hughes said that since its inception, the committee has drafted a policy that has been adopted by both the town and the Burlington school system, and has supported the development of incidence response plans. The committee has also submitted a formal letter to Governor Maura Healey and other legislative leaders recommending mandatory online safety training for all public employees. 

Those with cybersecurity expertise looking to join the committee should contact Kim Pigott at the Town Administrator’s office either by phone at 781-273-7600, or email at selectboardstaff@burlington.org. Register now and help protect the town from cyber attacks.