In the bustling city of New York, it is estimated that there are up to 90 billion potentially dangerous cyber events occurring each week. This staggering figure, provided by the city’s Office of Technology and Innovation, highlights the pressing need for effective cyber attack prevention and the protection of sensitive information. Enter Kelly Moan, the trailblazing woman leading the charge, having made history as the first woman ever to hold this crucial role within the city.
Located at 11 MetroTech in Downtown Brooklyn resides the New York Joint Security Center. As the epicenter for the city’s cyber defense strategies, this enormous office space is home to a 24/7 security operations center, overseen by Moan, New York City’s Chief Information Security Officer. In collaboration with various partners, including New York State, she works tirelessly to monitor ongoing security activity and respond to potential cyber threats.
Moan’s role is no small task – as New York City’s first-ever female Chief Information Security Officer, she is responsible for shielding the city government (made up of over 100 agencies and a workforce of 300,000 employees) from the onslaught of cyber attacks. This ranges from everyday items such as securing home computers, referred to as ‘endpoint devices,’ to more complex systems connected to the cloud and internet-enabled equipment.
A Washington, D.C. native, Moan left her hometown to attend American University before furthering her graduate studies at Penn State. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for cyber security, which would ultimately shape her extraordinary career.
As a testament to her dedication and expertise in the field, Moan was appointed division chief for U.S. Homeland Security, with a focus on developing technology to bolster cyber security defense. From there, her journey led her to New York City, where she would make history as the NYPD’s first female Chief Information Security Officer.
Moan is acutely aware of the importance of representation in her field, acknowledging that there were not many others who looked like her in the industry. She recognizes her unique position as both a leader and a trailblazer, inspiring others, particularly women, to pursue a career in cyber security.
As the head of the Joint Security Center, Moan collaborates with local and international partners to develop comprehensive strategies for countering cyber threats. From hosting international delegations, such as Europeans and Ukrainians, to working closely with Senator Gillibrand’s team, Moan’s mission is to bring expertise from various sources to strengthen the city’s cyber defense.
While the public may not often think of the individuals dedicated to keeping their city secure in cyberspace, the next time a cyber attack occurs, they can be sure that Kelly Moan and her team will be there to address the issue. Their ongoing efforts in monitoring security activities and mitigating potential threats are essential for keeping the citizens of New York safe and protected.
This commitment to safeguarding the densely populated metropolis demonstrates the city’s dedication to ensuring that its citizens are shielded from the ever-increasing risks of the digital age. By investing in cyber defense and employing top-tier talent like Kelly Moan, New York City is undoubtedly demonstrating the importance of strong leadership and vigilance in the face of these pressing issues.
As the world becomes more interconnected and technology continues to advance, it is essential for key cities like New York to invest in qualified individuals like Kelly Moan to protect the city from arising cybercrime. The establishment of the city’s Joint Security Center is a prime example of the city’s commitment to countering these cyber risks, showing that New Yorkers can trust in their government’s efforts to safeguard their online lives.
Kelly Moan is not only a testament to the strength of female leadership in the field of cyber security but also an inspiration to those around her. Through her groundbreaking role as New York City’s first female Chief Information Security Officer, she demonstrates a commitment to challenging the status quo and paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
She is not simply a pioneer for women in the cyber security industry, but a crucial player in the larger battle against cybercrime that affects the security and well-being of all citizens. It is people like Moan who contribute to the creation of a safer digital world – a world where cities like New York are committed to staying one step ahead of cyber threats.
The critical collaboration between local and international partners is a necessary component of a robust cyber defense strategy. By working with regional agencies, as well as hosting international delegations from Ukraine, Europe, and other regions, Moan is helping to foster a united front against the continually evolving global threat posed by cybercrime.
Additionally, the relationship between influential policy-makers, such as Senator Gillibrand, and cyber security experts like Moan allows for the ongoing exchange of vital knowledge and resources necessary for vigilant defense in the face of uncertainty. Together, they are actively addressing the complex challenges posed by today’s digital landscape.
In conclusion, as a trailblazer and an inspiration in the world of cyber security, Kelly Moan has made history as the first female Chief Information Security Officer in New York City. Her dedication, expertise, and leadership have undeniably made the city a safer place for all of its citizens, leaving a lasting impact on both the industry and the world at large.
