Cybersecurity refers to the technologies and processes designed to protect computers, networks and data from unauthorized access, including attacks by cyber criminals via the Internet. However, crimes committed by hackers are not the only way sensitive information stored on computers is lost. Many security breaches result from mistakes committed by computer system users, such as uploading unintended data or unwittingly divulging information used to gain access to their systems. Civilian hackers often target the personnel databases of organizations and institutions to steal personal and financial information such as social security numbers, addresses and bank account numbers. Foreign governments hack our computer systems to steal classified military information and industrial secrets. Cybersecurity advocates say better reporting and communication of hacking events between the government and private sector will help investigations and create strategies that can counter this sizable threat.

Pending Legislation: Senate version of H.R.3138 - State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act (passed House)
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY)
Status: Received in the Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs
Chair: Sen. Gary Peters (MI)

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