Episode 9D: 2026 DIR-Certified Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Training: Featuring the Cyber Guy and Hacker Hank!!
Episode description
Texas Government Code Section 2054.5191 mandates artificial intelligence and cybersecurity training for local government employees, elected officials, and appointed officials who have access to a local government computer system or database and use a computer to perform at least 25 percent of their duties. The training must be certified by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) — both this podcast and the YouTube video linked to the left are DIR-approved.
This episode isn’t some boring episode. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy — Ryan Burns — and his buddy — Hacker Hank — as they discuss ways that “Hank Hacks” trick local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more, along with newly-mandated artificial intelligence training.
A local governmental entity must keep track of participants internally and certify its compliance by August 31, 2026, using the Cybersecurity Training Certification for State and Local Governments form.
Further Information:
- OPTIONAL, self-administered cybersecurity and/or artificial intelligence test with answer key.
- Artificial Intelligence Presentation