Daniel Langley: Oklahoma’s New Chief Information Security Officer
Daniel Langley, formerly of Washington state’s information technology bureau, has recently taken on the pivotal role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Oklahoma. His appointment comes at a crucial time as states grapple with the increasingly sophisticated landscape of cybersecurity threats.
Background and Experience
Langley’s professional journey is marked by significant achievements in the field of cybersecurity. Prior to his move to Oklahoma, he spent over two years at Washington Technology Solutions, where he excelled as the Deputy CISO for Security Operations. His experience extends beyond this role; he previously served as the CISO for the Washington State Lottery and boasts almost a decade of service in the U.S. Army. There, he completed his tenure as a captain in the Signal Corps, which plays a vital role in shaping and maintaining communications technologies.
A Shifting Landscape in Oklahoma
Langley’s transition to Oklahoma fills the gap left by Michael Toland, the state’s previous cyber chief, who resigned to join Anomali, a Californian cybersecurity firm. In prior interviews, Toland discussed the pressing challenges cybersecurity professionals face, particularly with the rise of agentic artificial intelligence tools that automate defense processes. As Langley steps into his new role, he inherits the ongoing responsibility of safeguarding Oklahoma’s data against an array of threats.
The Challenge Ahead
Dan Cronin, Oklahoma’s Chief Information Officer, emphasizes the dynamic nature of cybersecurity, noting that it is “an ongoing journey that requires constant adaptation to emerging threats.” Langley’s role will center on developing and implementing IT security policies aimed at protecting the state’s citizens and resources from a wide range of cyber threats. These include business email compromise attacks and various forms of malware that pose significant risks to state operations.
Strengthening Cybersecurity Measures
Langley’s arrival coincides with several critical changes within the state’s Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), which oversees Oklahoma’s IT functions. In addition to Langley’s appointment, Gov. Kevin Stitt recently announced the departure of Rick Rose, OMES’s executive director and statewide chief operating officer, adding further layers of complexity to the transition.
With October designated as National Cyber Security Awareness Month, the timing of Langley’s appointment is particularly noteworthy. This annual observance underscores the importance of enhancing cybersecurity practices both in government and among citizens. Stitt’s office is leveraging this month to promote proactive cybersecurity habits and draw attention to ongoing efforts by Oklahoma’s Cyber Command.
Advancing Cyber Awareness
Oklahoma Cyber Command operates round-the-clock to mitigate threats, addressing “tens of billions” of potential breaches annually. This robust infrastructure is underscored by initiatives such as the Oklahoma Information Sharing and Analysis Center (OK-ISAC), which provides vital real-time threat monitoring and incident response services.
In alignment with the state’s focus on cybersecurity, Stitt’s office advocates four key practices for individuals and organizations to adopt: reporting phishing attempts, using strong passwords alongside password management tools, enabling multifactor authentication, and routinely updating software. These measures serve as proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity awareness statewide.
The Road Ahead
As Langley prepares to implement new strategies and policies, his extensive background in cybersecurity positions him well to navigate the challenges ahead. With the increasing frequency of cyber threats, the responsibilities he shoulders grow ever more significant—making his leadership crucial for the future of Oklahoma’s cybersecurity posture.
