The Pennsylvania Senate Communications and Technology Committee has advanced legislation aimed at enhancing cybersecurity within state government. Chaired by Senator Tracy Pennycuick, the committee approved Senate Bill 376, which seeks to ban the use of TikTok on devices used by state government agencies.
“This important measure will ensure Pennsylvania’s sensitive information will be protected,” stated Sen. Pennycuick. She emphasized the need for robust defenses against cyber threats targeting government data.
As of March 2024, a total of 39 states have enacted similar bans on TikTok following concerns raised by the FBI regarding potential data collection and influence operations by the Chinese government through the app.
“‘TikTok presents an unacceptable level of cybersecurity risk to the commonwealth and may be involved in activities such as cyber-espionage, surveillance of government entities, and inappropriate collection of sensitive personal information,” said Senator Phillips-Hill, who sponsored SB 376. “It is imperative that Pennsylvania takes bold and decisive actions to prepare for and address cybersecurity threats.”
The proposed legislation mandates that all state entities remove TikTok from their devices, implement measures to prevent its installation, and enforce network-based restrictions to block access to prohibited services.
Additionally, the committee voted on Senate Bill 377 introduced by Senator Phillips-Hill. This bill aims to bolster IT security by requiring that any computer hardware purchased by state agencies adhere to standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
“Cybersecurity attacks cost businesses and governments trillions of dollars every year,” noted Sen. Phillips-Hill. She highlighted that modern cyberattacks are increasingly destructive and widespread.
Pennsylvania has experienced various cyber incidents affecting numerous departments including Labor and Industry, Human Services, Education, and Health.
