# Local Government Cybersecurity Landscape: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework
## 5 Findings and Discussion
### The Framework: Key Components and Limitations in the Existing Literature
#### 5.2.2 Common Cybersecurity Tools  
This systematic review of cybersecurity for local governments reveals a variety of tools designed to enhance specific aspects of cybersecurity. These Internet security tools include antivirus software, anti-phishing tools, VPNs, MFAs, web gateways, and email security solutions [63; 64; 78]. Web security tools include web vulnerability scanning tools, which identify security weaknesses in web applications and websites, and SSL certificates that establish secure and encrypted links between web servers and browsers [7]. Network security tools include network firewalls, monitoring tools, packet sniffers, IDPS, VPNs, and router security [78; 79]. Data security tools include encryption tools, DLP software, MFA, backup solutions, and data masking to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access [50; 51; 85]. Endpoint security tools include antivirus software for protection against various forms of malware that could compromise endpoint devices [49]. Application security tools include WAF, penetration testing software, and SIEM systems [25; 82]. Cloud security tools use encryption tools to protect data stored in the cloud, ensuring confidentiality and security even in shared and multi-tenant cloud environments [33; 61].  
The existing literature on cybersecurity in local government contexts highlights a significant gap in the coverage of vital security tools across core concepts. While the literature mentioned common tools for Internet security, it did not mention the tools essential for robust web, network, data, endpoint, application, and cloud security. This is particularly important given the rapidly evolving nature of cyberthreats and the significance of data management by local governments. The existing literature neglects Content Security Policy (CSP) for web security, a crucial tool for preventing attacks like XSS and data injection [102; 103]. CSP allows web developers to specify valid domains for executable scripts, preventing malicious script execution [104]. Given the increasing sophistication of web-based attacks, CSP's role in local government websites and web applications is crucial.  
The literature lacks tools like Network Access Control (NAC) and Unified Threat Management (UTM) in network security [105; 106]. NAC systems are crucial for secure network access, enforcing security policy compliance on devices attempting to access network resources. UTMs provide a comprehensive security solution, simplifying infrastructure for local governments with limited IT resources. In endpoint security, tools like endpoint detection and response (EDR) detect and respond to threats; Mobile Device Management (MDM) manages mobile device security; and disk and media encryption protect data on endpoint devices, ensuring that data remain secure even in the event of theft or loss [99; 107; 108].  
For application security, the literature overlooks tools such as Application Security Testing (AST) and runtime application self-protection (RASP), which are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities and addressing security issues during development [109; 110]. RASP provides a real-time security layer by analyzing application behavior and blocking harmful actions. In cloud security, tools like Identity and Access Management (IAM), which manages user identities and access privileges, Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs), which provide data visibility and control, Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM), which ensures security best practices, and Cloud Workload Protection Platforms (CWPs), which protect cloud workloads against evolving threats, are not cited in the existing literature in the cybersecurity and local government research domain [89; 111; 112; 113].