#USA #Chicago #water security #Tarah Wheeler #Cyber Policy

Introduction

In a groundbreaking move, the Harris Cyber Policy Initiative (CPI) has appointed renowned cybersecurity expert Tarah Wheeler as a Senior Fellow and Board Member. This partnership marks a significant step towards establishing a managed security model specifically tailored for rural water utilities across the United States.

The Need for Enhanced Security

The launch of this initiative comes in response to alarming cybersecurity vulnerabilities within water systems in the U.S. According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 70% of the inspected water utilities fell short of basic cybersecurity standards in a 2024 evaluation. These shortcomings pose serious threats to public health, safety, and economic stability as cyberattacks on critical infrastructure grow more sophisticated and frequent.

About the Initiative - DEF CON Franklin

Wheeler's appointment aligns with CPI's flagship project, DEF CON Franklin, which is a volunteer-driven initiative designed to bolster the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure that often goes unnoticed and under-protected. The DEF CON Franklin project is a collaborative effort involving the National Rural Water Association, the University of Chicago, and the DEF CON community, which is one of the world's largest hacker conventions. Since its inception, DEF CON Franklin has mobilized numerous cybersecurity professionals to assist rural water utilities—often providing them with much-needed support for the first time.

Tarah Wheeler's Vision

Wheeler, who also serves as the Chief Security Officer at TPO Group, brings a wealth of knowledge in cybersecurity, AI research, and data science. Her blend of technical acumen and practical governance experience uniquely positions her to lead CPI in designing a sustainable Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) model. “I am a big fan of water. Unfortunately, rural American water utilities are drowning in outdated cybersecurity practices and are easy targets for cybercriminals,” Wheeler stated, reflecting her commitment to protect these vital resources.

Expanding Impact

Under Wheeler's guidance, CPI aims to move beyond temporary volunteer efforts. The proposed MSSP framework is designed to be scalable and affordable, ensuring long-term cybersecurity for small and rural utilities that often lack the resources for adequate protection. The initiative seeks to create a model that resonates with the realities faced by these utilities, allowing for continuous and effective cybersecurity measures.

The Path Ahead

Jake Braun, a former White House cybersecurity director and co-founder of DEF CON Franklin, emphasized the need for sustainability in cybersecurity initiatives. “Tarah Wheeler’s leadership is crucial for building a managed security model that truly addresses the needs of water operators,” Braun noted. With Wheeler at the helm, CPI is looking to spearhead a new wave of community-centered cybersecurity solutions to safeguard the essential systems on which Americans depend daily.

Conclusion

As cyber threats increasingly target essential infrastructure, Wheeler's appointment to the Harris Cyber Policy Initiative heralds a new era of proactive cybersecurity for rural water systems. By leveraging the collective expertise of the cybersecurity community, this effort aims to forge a secure and resilient framework that protects one of the nation's most vital resources: water.

Engagement from experts like Wheeler may bridge the significant gaps identified in cybersecurity standards within the water sector, illustrating a crucial intersection of technology and public utility management. The initiative not only seeks to defend against immediate threats but also fosters a sustainable model for ongoing protective measures—ensuring both public safety and trust in the systems responsible for providing clean water to rural communities.