Critical Infrastructure Security , IoT Drones pose evolving security risks for public gatherings May 1, 2026 Share By SC Staff As reported by Statescoop, the rapid advancement of drone technology is outpacing the security systems that state and local governments utilize to protect large public events, such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches. A report from the Center for Internet Security highlights that drones introduce novel risks that traditional security measures are ill-equipped to handle. Unlike ground-based threats, drones can bypass physical barriers, posing challenges for securing events like concerts, festivals, and sporting matches, as well as correctional facilities. John Cohen, executive director of CIS's strategic programs office, notes that state and local leaders face a dual challenge: the increasing capability of drones, augmented by AI navigation and other technologies, allows for lethal and disruptive attacks, contraband smuggling, and even cyber operations. Detecting these drones remains difficult, with common tools like radar and RF sensors struggling in dense environments and producing false positives. This necessitates integrated systems for sensor data fusion, real-time monitoring, and inter-jurisdictional information sharing. Kansas City, Missouri, is deploying a command post bus equipped with cameras and tethered drones for the World Cup. However, many governments still operate with fragmented systems and limited resources, hindering cohesive counter-drone strategies. Federal authority to counter unauthorized drones is limited to four agencies, leaving state and local law enforcement reliant on federal partners for intervention, a situation that has prompted calls for expanded authority from police unions and legislative proposals. Source: Statescoop SC Staff Related Security Operations State cybersecurity leaders discuss prioritizing security upgrades SC Staff May 1, 2026 During a National Association of State Chief Information Officers conference, officials like Rex Menold, Michigan's chief security officer, shared that agencies, not central IT, often decide on security priorities. Threat Intelligence Romanian national sentenced to 4 years for leading swatting ring SC Staff May 1, 2026 The individual, identified as 27-year-old Thomasz Szabo, operated under various aliases and founded a community that engaged in bomb threats and swatting attacks starting in late 2020. Security Operations Lawmakers consider standalone critical infrastructure status for data centers SC Staff May 1, 2026 Lawmakers on the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection are considering whether data centers should be recognized as a distinct critical infrastructure sector. Related Events Cybercast From code to cloud: Stopping attacks in the software supply chain On-Demand Event Virtual Conference Securing the Backbone: Strategies to Counter Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure in the Public Sector On-Demand Event Get daily email updates SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news Business Email By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . Subscribe You can skip this ad in 5 seconds