The Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI) has received $5.9 million from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to bolster information infrastructure protection.
The effort would expand the Distributed Environment for Critical Infrastructure Decision-Making Exercises (DECIDE) cyber-training platform, which was originally developed in tandem with and transitioned to the financial services sector.
The new initiative would build similar simulation-based scenarios and exercises specific to the energy sector.
“DHS S&T is committed to investing in the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure, and that includes ensuring that organizations are properly trained to recognize and respond to potential cyber threats,” William N. Bryan, senior official performing the duties of the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, said. “We are excited to soon make this proven platform available to even more of our private sector partners.”
S&T officials said the agency’s cybersecurity mission is to enhance the security and resilience of the nation’s critical information infrastructure and the internet by developing and delivering new technologies, tools and techniques to defend against cyberattacks.
“Bringing players together in a safe, immersive environment where they can run through existing response tactics allows them to identify vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies prior to a real-life crisis,” Greg Wigton, S&T program manager, said. “DECIDE offers organizations seeking to bolster their cyber strategies a low-risk. High-value tool, and we look forward to working with NUARI and our energy stakeholders to customize the technology to their unique needs.”