Cyber officials urge agencies to armor up

U.S. cybersecurity officials are urging federal agencies and large organizations to remain vigilant against the threat of Russian cyberattacks amid the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) updated its “Shields Up” guidance for organizations after Russia’s incursion into eastern Ukraine last week, urging officials to remain “laser-focused on resilience.”

U.S. officials have also sought to bolster precautions among the federal workforce as agencies seek to shore up their cyber defenses.

A notice sent to employees with the U.S. Department of Agriculture late last week and viewed by The Hill went as far as to suggest that employees stock up on food, gas and other supplies as part of a “personal and professional preparedness” plan.

“Have some cash on hand in case ATMs or credit card readers are unavailable,” stated the email from USDA security and technology heads.