A senior data analyst from the National Security Agency will advise Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan's office on data privacy and security policies.

Equipping remote workforces, improving network security and expanding broadband are among the top uses of the funding so far.

The cybersecurity firm UpGuard found that a default setting in a product used to build apps and websites left troves of personal information easily accessible.

Gov. Larry Hogan also said the state will get guidance on data security from a "senior-level" National Security Agency analyst.

Officials estimated the funding will connect approximately 12,000 additional households to high-speed internet.

Leonardtown and North Beach both get IT services from a managed service provider that uses the Kaseya software that was targeted by REvil hackers.

Two GIS officials say were called on to help with pandemic response over the last 13 months as state leaders realized geospatial technology's power.

FCC Acting Chair Jessica Rosenworcel told Maryland educators and administrators she's confident about expanding connectivity for K-12 students who are gradually returning to classrooms.

Data-sharing infrastructure largely developed before the pandemic enabled states to act quickly in improving digital services last year, technology officials said.