Cybersecurity is the process of protecting internet-connected computer systems, such as hardware, software, and data, from cyber-threats. Cybersecurity is used by individuals and businesses to protect against unauthorized access to these computer systems when cyber criminals attempt to change, destroy, and steal sensitive data; extort money by making the systems unworkable; and interrupt business operations.

In Montana, cybersecurity is governed by a combination of state statutes and federal laws designed to protect computer systems and sensitive data from cyber-threats. The Montana Code Annotated (MCA) includes provisions related to computer security, such as the Montana Data Protection Act, which requires businesses to implement reasonable security procedures to protect personal information, and to notify individuals of data breaches that may affect them. Additionally, Montana has laws against computer crime, outlined in Title 45, Chapter 6, Part 3 of the MCA, which prohibit unauthorized access to computer systems, as well as the alteration, damage, or destruction of data or software. At the federal level, laws such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) and the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act (CISA) also apply, providing additional layers of protection against cyber threats and facilitating information sharing between the government and private entities to improve cybersecurity defenses. These laws are enforced by various agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and violations can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.