Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, Chairwoman of the House Homeland Security Committee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology, introduced a House Resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Cyber Security Awareness Month 2010.

“Americans rely on information technology in every aspect of our lives – from managing businesses to social networking. As innovation spurs increased access and demand for the internet and information technologies, cyber warfare and cyber crime are increasing in sophistication and frequency. In this digital age, we are all interconnected and our national cyber infrastructure is only as strong as the weakest link in the chain,” stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

Cybersecurity vulnerabilities can significantly impact our national and economic security. The Department of Homeland Security logged 5,499 such cyber attack incidents in 2008 – a 40 percent increase over the previous year. A 2007 Government Accountability Office report estimates the total U.S. business losses due to cyber attacks exceed $117.5 billion per year. A 2009 Consumer Reports study found that over the past two years, one in five online consumers has been a victim of cyber crime.

Original Co-sponsors of this resolution include: Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee Congressman Bennie Thompson, Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee Congressman Peter King and Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology.

“National Cybersecurity Awareness Month provides an opportunity to raise cybersecurity awareness. This month I will be hosting as series of roundtables, designed to educate the public on how to protect themselves and their families at home, at work and at school,” concluded Congresswoman Clarke.

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