Illinois Commerce Commission establishes cybersecurity office
The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) announced this week the creation of the Office of Cybersecurity and Risk Management to support utilities’ efforts to address cybersecurity risks.
“The growing sophistication of utility-based cybersecurity preparation and ongoing efforts to drive comprehensive situational awareness makes the ICC uniquely positioned to partner with stakeholders and encourage further collaboration,” ICC Chairman Brien J. Sheahan said. “The establishment of the Office of Cybersecurity and Risk Management allows us to do so on a consistent basis and maintain the most proactive infrastructure possible within Illinois.”
Dominic Saebeler will serve as director of the office. Saebeler is an Illinois attorney who has served in various public and private sector roles related to policy, technology and law. Most recently, he worked as the Chief of Information Technology Policy at the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology.
“Cybersecurity represents a complex journey that government, businesses and citizens are travelling together with a mutual responsibility,” Saebeler said. “We need to take appropriate steps that minimize risks where possible, avoid hesitancy and inaction, drive productive information sharing and make prudent decisions related to the accelerated use and implementation of emerging technologies, such as cloud computing and intelligent devices, that are a key part of the Internet of Things.”
