This IDC Spotlight emphasizes that cybercriminals increasingly exploit human error in state and local government agencies, where endpoint incidents rose 313% from 2022–2023. Phishing remains a leading ransomware delivery vector, with AI enabling more convincing lures. The paper details challenges like outdated technology, funding constraints, and talent shortages, which hinder effective defenses. It advocates for human-centric programs that blend employee awareness, secure daily practices, and leadership accountability. Consequences of attacks include financial losses, regulatory penalties, service disruption, and reputational harm. Proofpoint’s layered platform—Core, Core Plus, Advanced, and Complete—provides adaptive protection across predelivery, click-time, and postdelivery stages, mak

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