The Homeland Security Secretary aims to transform how the government defends against cyberthreats.

Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas unveiled early steps, like infrastructure investment and building partnerships with private companies, this week.

A historically complacent approach to cybersecurity is becoming proactive, said Dr. Dwight Farris, professor of cybersecurity and information technology at Grand Canyon University. The government’s move to improve online safety is needed to prevent a catastrophe. 

“The number of breaches, the number of compromises are on the rise. And we need to do something substantial to combat that,” said Farris.

Homeland Security said it also plans to spend more money on cybersecurity experts needed to stop electronic onslaughts.

Farris said the prospect of a government job is a great recruitment tool for drawing students to the field.

The cybersecurity agency controlled by Mayorkas is housed within the federal government’s third-largest department, which also does immigration enforcement, emergency response and other jobs. 

“This is one of the flaws of the U.S. government. Unlike some other countries, we actually have three agencies quote, unquote in charge of cybersecurity,” said Dr. Jon Haass, professor of cyberintelligence and security at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott.

Homeland Security handles domestic cybersafety, Haas said. A separate office protects the government’s online presence, and a third shields the military from digital danger.