Cybersecurity in the public sector: protecting critical data

Public sector organizations face mounting cyber threats. Sensitive data and essential services are at risk, with outdated systems and limited budgets compounding the problem. NordLayer delivers flexible, robust network security solutions tailored for public sector needs. Learn how we help secure data and streamline compliance efforts.

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Cybersecurity in the public sector

STATISTICS

The numbers behind public sector cyber risks

2.5B

Major cyber incidents could cause extreme losses reaching $2.5 billion every decade.

4.88M

The average global cost of a data breach reached $4.88 million in 2023, reflecting a growing financial impact.

74%

In 2023, 74% of data breaches involved human error or compromised credentials, emphasizing the need for better security measures.

KEY CHALLENGES

Cyber risks facing the public sector

Public sector organizations handle sensitive personal information and critical infrastructure data. These entities are prime targets for threat actors seeking financial gain, political disruption, or sensitive data. Below are key challenges impacting the sector.

Legacy systems

Legacy systems

Public sector organizations often rely on older technology systems that may not be adequately patched or updated. These legacy systems are easier targets for attackers because they lack modern security features.

Budget limitations

Budget limitations

Public sector organizations typically operate under strict budget limitations, which can lead to insufficient investment in cybersecurity tools, personnel, and training.

Sensitive data storage

Sensitive data storage

The public sector, including government agencies, collects and stores sensitive data like personal, financial, and classified information. Managing this data securely is essential to avoid breaches and data theft.

Political & ideological attacks

Political & ideological attacks

Public sector organizations face attacks motivated by political agendas or ideological beliefs. Hacktivism and cyber-espionage are significant risks that can cause service disruptions and data leaks.

Procurement delays

Procurement delays

Government bureaucracies often have slower procurement and decision-making processes compared to the private sector. This delay can prevent the timely adoption of crucial cybersecurity measures.

DDoS attacks

DDoS attacks

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are a growing concern for public sector organizations. These attacks overwhelm systems and disrupt services, making essential resources unavailable to the public.

Ransomware threats

Ransomware threats

Ransomware attacks are on the rise, with threat actors encrypting critical data and demanding ransom payments. These attacks can cripple public sector services, affecting millions of citizens.

Third-party risks

Third-party risks

Public sector organizations often rely on external vendors for IT support and services. If these vendors lack robust cybersecurity measures, they can become entry points for attackers.

Fighting budget cuts & cyber threats? Stop reacting, start defending.

Outdated systems? Budget constraints? Endless threats? Public sector cybersecurity doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. NordLayer delivers real protection—fast, affordable, and easy for any team to manage. No more excuses. Just smarter security.

Fighting cyber threats

USE CASES

What can NordLayer do for your organization?

Public sector organizations handle sensitive personal information and critical infrastructure data. These entities are prime targets for threat actors seeking financial gain, political disruption, or sensitive data. Below are key challenges impacting the sector.

Streamline network & data access control effectively

Streamline network & data access control effectively

  • Public sector organizations must ensure that only authorized individuals access critical systems and data. Unauthorized access can lead to data leaks or service disruptions.
  • NordLayer’s Network Access Control (NAC) solution, including Cloud Firewall and Device Posture Security, authenticates users and devices before granting access. With real-time visibility into who connects to your network, organizations can prevent unauthorized access and reduce many risks.
Maintain compliance & security in cloud environments

Maintain compliance & security in cloud environments

  • Public sector organizations are increasingly adopting cloud solutions for efficiency. However, managing compliance and security in these environments can be challenging.
  • NordLayer helps public sector organizations secure their cloud environments with encrypted connections and advanced monitoring. We provide tools to help meet compliance requirements and protect sensitive data in transit.
Strengthen security with multi-layered authentication

Strengthen security with multi-layered authentication

  • Compromised credentials are a leading cause of data breaches. Public sector organizations need robust authentication measures to protect sensitive data.
  • NordLayer provides Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solutions to ensure that only verified users access critical systems. Our tools support various authentication methods, improving security without adding complexity.
Monitor & gain full visibility over your network activity

Monitor & gain full visibility over your network activity

Public sector organizations need to monitor their networks to detect and prevent cyber threats. Lack of visibility can leave organizations vulnerable to attacks. NordLayer’s Network Visibility tools provide real-time insights into network activity. Administrators can track connections, monitor device compliance, check malicious download reports, and address potential threats before they escalate.

Secure what your employees download

Secure what your employees download

  • Employees often download files from public, unsecured sources, which can introduce malware into your network. Public sector organizations must have certain tools to protect against these threats.
  • NordLayer’s Download Protection scans downloaded files for malware. This feature ensures safe downloads, protecting your network and devices from malicious files.
Threat prevention & dark web monitoring

Threat prevention & dark web monitoring

  • More often, public sector organizations face risks from exposed credentials and data on the dark web. These leaks can lead to cyber-attacks and data breaches.
  • NordLayer, in collaboration with NordStellar, offers dark web monitoring and threat prevention tools. These solutions help organizations identify and mitigate risks before they become threats.
Secure your remote workforce

Secure your remote workforce

  • In some areas, public sector employees work remotely, which can increase security risks. Securing such remote connections is vital to this sector.
  • NordLayer provides Secure Remote Access solutions that protect data and ensure safe connections from any location. Our Business VPN and Secure Remote Access tools keep your workforce secure all around the globe.

KEY ADVANTAGES

Why NordLayer for securing public sector organizations?

Choose NordLayer for its robust digital asset protection, compliance alignment, and seamless integration with existing infrastructures, enhancing your public sector organization’s cybersecurity posture.

Personal information
Protect sensitive personal information

Advanced encryption and access controls ensure critical data remains secure.

Comprehensive securit
Comprehensive security capabilities

Implement network security measures that fulfill ZTNA, SWG, and FWaaS principles only by using a single product

Unsecure
Prevent evolving cyber threats

Features like Web Protection and Dark Web Monitoring help identify threats early

Support regulatory compliance
Support regulatory compliance

Our solutions help meet data protection standards, reducing compliance risks.

Secure remote and hybrid work
Secure remote and hybrid work

Provide employees with safe access to systems from anywhere.

Rapid deployment and flexible scaling
Rapid deployment and flexible scaling

Hardware-free solutions are easy to set up and adjust to your needs.

Seamless integration
Seamless integration

Connect NordLayer with your existing IT infrastructure and identity providers.

Free guide: an IT admin’s roadmap to stronger security & seamless access control

IT guide

OTHER SECTORS

Other industries we help

healthcare

Healthcare

financial

Finance

Education industry

Education

ecommerce

eCommerce

manufacturing

Manufacturing

government

Government

Software & IT

Software & IT

Real estate

Real Estate

Accounting

Accounting

Hospitality

Hospitality

*IMF blog article "Rising Cyber Threats Pose Serious Concerns for Financial Stability" **R&I article "Global Average Cost of a Data Breach Reaches $4.88M in 2023" *** NordLayer blog article "Breakdown of the 12 most significant 2023 data breaches"