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Gov. Kathy Hochul appoints new role to advance New York's cyber security efforts

WAER file photo
The New York State Capitol located in Albany.

New York State now has a chief cyber officer. Colin Ahern will serve in the first-ever position. Ahern has a background as an Army veteran and an international cybersecurity expert. He’ll be in charge of coordinating cross-agency efforts to prevent cyber threats and attacks. He’ll also lead the Joint Security Operations Center, which serves as a hub for cyber threat detection and incident response.

The appointment builds on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s efforts to bolster the state’s cybersecurity defense infrastructure. The 2023 New York State Budget allocated nearly 62 million dollars for cybersecurity, which is double the prior investment.

Hochul said in a statement, "In an era of increasingly advanced cyber threats, Colin's proven expertise and experience in the military, the private sector, and government will be critical to identifying cyber risks, enhancing our defense systems, preventing attacks, and ensuring that New Yorkers and our institutions remain protected."

Katie Zilcosky is WAER’s All Things Considered host and features reporter. She also co-hosts WAER’s public affairs show Syracuse Speaks. As a reporter, she focuses on technology, economy, and identity.