Assessing cybersecurity in the courts
Meeting the challenge of court cybersecurity
This in-depth report uses surveys and on-site assessments to examine the growing need for data protection in the justice system, the cybersecurity challenges many courts face today, and potential paths for safeguarding crucial information.
Who should read this?
- IT leaders & policymakers: See how cyber threats are evolving, understand the top concerns of many courts, and explore techniques to boost cyber resilience
- Courthouse architects & planners: Examine the infrastructure issues courts face when trying to improve cybersecurity
- Court administrators & judges: Learn why robust data protection strategies are key to improving public trust
Why this report matters
Courts gather and store reams of sensitive information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Our report, funded by a grant from the State Justice Institute, offers insights to help courts prioritize cybersecurity strategies, improve existing plans, and address emerging threats.
Estimated report reading time: 20 minutes
Key takeaways
Our detailed survey and on-site court assessments highlighted the complex cybersecurity issues being faced by today's justice system.
Top 3 threats
Our survey showed that court administrators believed the biggest cyber threats were posed by ransomware attacks, phishing, and data leaks.
Obstacles to improvement
Beyond funding and staffing issues, cybersecurity can also be complicated when communication services are provided by another agency or outside vendor.
Shared solutions
We're working with courts to enhance cybersecurity by conducting IT assessments, identifying issues, and offering cyber defense guidance.
New perspectives on data protection
Solid cybersecurity requires the right blend of resources, planning, and preparation. Our report examines how courts across the country are coping with cyber threats and details the critical challenges at hand. Working together, we can help your court develop solutions that protect data and preserve public trust.
Explore more
Cybersecurity basics for courts
The Joint Technology Committee has produced a guide to help court administrators, IT leaders, judges, legal teams and staff to establish cybersecurity measures including incident response teams, regular risk assessments, clear communication strategies and maintenance of public trust, in order to guard against a growing threat of cybercrimes such as ransomware, malware, phishing and insider threats.