Cyber defense Michigan to launch cyber command center and defense teams

To help boost the state’s economy and its role in securing the nation’s data networks, Michigan recently announced that it plans to launch a cyber command center and cyber defense response teams.

Under the Michigan Cyber Initiative, the state will open the Michigan Cyber Command Center. The center will be directed by the Michigan State Police and staffed by “a select group of skilled public and private professionals who are highly trained in emergency response to cyber-events,” according to a document outlining the proposal.

The command center’s primary responsibility is to restore computer systems and minimize damage. In addition, rapid-response teams will be deployed to help secure networks and develop training standards.

The cyber command will build upon the existing Michigan Intelligence Operations Center, which will continue to handle threat detection and monitoring.

The cyber initiative also aims to boost cyber security education at Michigan’s schools. Currently five of Michigan’s colleges and university have been designated by the NSA as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance.

“This initiative underscores Michigan’s commitment to cyber-security,” said David Behen, Michigan’s chief information officer. “It’s an action plan that offers clear approaches for safeguarding our families, protecting Michigan’s infrastructure and shielding our economy.”

The latest announcement comes as part of Michigan’s broader efforts to assist the U.S. government in cyber security and bolster its own cyber defense posture.

Two years ago, Michigan worked with federal IT experts to test the EINSTEIN traffic monitoring system. In its proof of concept trials, Michigan successfully helped resolved forty malware incidents affecting 590 state devices.

Furthermore, Michigan also recently created the nation’s first state chief security officer to oversee both physical and computer infrastructure security.