Election Security Planner

Helping election officials identify, understand, and prioritize cybersecurity solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EDR?

Regular antivirus is like a basic alarm system — it looks for known threats and tries to stop them. EDR is more advanced. It watches everything happening on your computers and can spot unusual behavior, even if it’s a new kind of attack. Think of EDR as a security team that investigates problems, not just a simple alarm.

What are Encrypted Offline Data Backups?

Offline backups are electronic copies of important files that are saved somewhere completely separate from your regular computer systems. These backups are typically stored on things you can physically hold, like an external hard drive or a tape, and they’re not plugged into your computer or connected to the internet.

They’re also locked with a password so no one else can read them if they’re lost or stolen. This kind of backup helps protect your data from hackers, viruses, or ransomware attacks. If something goes wrong, you still have a clean copy of your files that’s safe and untouched.

What is Malware?

Malware is any software designed to harm your computer or steal information. It can come from bad websites, email attachments, or infected files. Common types include viruses, spyware, and ransomware.

What is Network Segmentation?

Your network is the system that connects all your computers, printers, and other devices so they can talk to each other. Network segmentation means breaking that system into smaller parts. If one part gets infected with a virus, it won’t spread to the whole network. It’s like having fire doors in a building to stop flames from spreading.

What are Phishing Assessments?

Phishing assessments are fake email tests sent to staff to see if they click on suspicious links or share sensitive info. These tests help train people to spot real scams and avoid falling for them. It’s like a fire drill, but for email safety.

What is Protective DNS?

Protective DNS works like a smart phonebook for the internet. When you try to visit a website, your computer checks that phonebook first and prevents you from going to any websites that are known to be dangerous, e.g. spreading viruses or trying to trick you into giving away personal info.

It’s like having a security guard who checks every number before you call, making sure you don’t accidentally connect to someone trying to scam you.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files and demands money to unlock them. It’s like someone breaking into your office, locking your filing cabinets, and asking for payment before giving you the key. It can shut down your operations and cause serious problems.