Catawba County News
Catawba County 101
Published: June 01, 2026
MAKING. LIVING. BETTER: Information Technology: Security
Briefly describe the area you are spotlighting.
The IT Security function is responsible for protecting the County’s digital systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Our mission is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of government information systems while enabling secure and reliable delivery of public services.
How do you achieve your mission – what services are offered?
IT Security monitors county systems for malicious and suspicious activity, respond to cyber events, support secure configuration of systems and applications, identify and help remediate vulnerabilities that attackers could leverage to gain access to systems, provide security awareness, conduct risk assessments on vendors and new software and create policies to maintain an overall secure environment.
Who does this department/service area/program serve?
This function serves all County departments, employees, and indirectly all citizens who rely on County services. This includes residents interacting with systems such as public records, tax services, permitting, emergency services, social services and other digital or in person government functions that depend on secure IT systems. IT security works to ensure secure connections and protects the Private Identifiable Information (PII) and Private Health Information (PHI).
How and where are services delivered?
IT security delivers services through maintaining secure connections to the County network, providing cybersecurity awareness through trainings and phishing tests, and reviewing phishing reports from users.
How many staff members are involved in delivering services?
The Information Security team consists of 4 personnel with one full time IT Security Analyst.
How does our community and/or organization benefit from these services?
Cybersecurity services protect the County from cyberattacks, data breaches, and service disruptions. Benefits include:
- Keeping sensitive resident data (tax, health, legal records) secure
- Ensuring continuity of essential services like emergency response systems
- Preventing ransomware attacks that could shut down county operations
- Reducing financial and legal risks from cyber incidents
- Maintaining public trust in digital government services
Please share anything unique or interesting about this program you would want people to know.
County cybersecurity operates as a “behind-the-scenes” function that quietly protects nearly every digital interaction between citizens and government. While most work is invisible when things are functioning properly, it becomes critical during cyber incidents, where rapid response can prevent widespread service disruption.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility across all departments. While the security team provides tools, monitoring, and guidance, the strongest protection comes from county wide awareness, safe internet practices, and collaboration between staff. Continuous improvement and user education are key to maintaining a strong security posture in an evolving threat landscape.