ANNVILLE, PA — Pennsylvania organizations are receiving expanded cybersecurity support as the Pennsylvania National Guard reports delivering 1,170 hours of free training in 2025, saving an estimated $600,000 in costs.
What This Means for You
- Free Cybersecurity Support: Schools, governments, and organizations can access no-cost training and assessments.
- Stronger Digital Defenses: Training helps prevent cyberattacks like phishing, malware, and data breaches.
- More Services Ahead: Proposed funding would expand support to additional communities statewide.
The Pennsylvania National Guard’s Cyber Protection Team provides services including vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and network monitoring—tools used to identify weaknesses in computer systems, simulate cyberattacks to test defenses, and monitor networks for suspicious activity.
State officials say the program is designed to help organizations detect and respond to cyber threats before they disrupt operations or compromise sensitive data.
Growing Demand for Cyber Protection
Pennsylvania is considered a high-value target for cyberattacks due to its extensive infrastructure, health care systems, and financial institutions.
“Increased funding will help meet rising cybersecurity demands while safeguarding our communities and the critical systems they rely on,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
The Cyber Protection Team works with local governments, schools, and infrastructure partners to strengthen defenses against threats such as phishing attempts, malware infections, and data breaches.
“Protecting our communities today means strengthening our defenses in cyberspace,” said Lt. Col. Christine Pierce, director of cyber operations. “The Pennsylvania National Guard Cyber Protection Team is providing critical training to local governments, schools, and infrastructure partners so they can recognize, prevent, and respond to evolving cyber threats.”
Local Impact and Use Cases
Organizations that have participated in the program report improvements in their cybersecurity readiness.
“Working with the Pennsylvania National Guard Cyber Protection Team has provided us with valuable insights and guidance to strengthen our cybersecurity posture,” said Brian Paulhamus, director of technology for the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit. “Their penetration testing and assessments deliver actionable findings that help us identify gaps, improve our defenses, and better safeguard the sensitive information entrusted to us.”
Officials said the program’s assessments help organizations identify vulnerabilities and implement stronger protections for sensitive data and critical systems.
Proposed Funding Increase
Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes increased funding for the Cyber Protection Team to meet growing demand and expand services to additional state and county agencies.
Officials said the additional funding would support more cyber operations and improve coordination between state and local partners.
How to Access Services
Organizations interested in receiving cybersecurity assessments or training can contact the Pennsylvania National Guard at 717-712-6474 or 717-861-3416 to check eligibility and availability.
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