Gov. Rick Snyder has proclaimed October as Michigan’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month to remind citizens, businesses and governments to protect themselves against cyber attacks.
“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility,” Snyder said. “Recent high-profile security breaches in the federal government and large corporations serve as a reminder that cyber incidents are occurring more frequently and threaten the security of all Michigan residents. Awareness is the best defense against criminals who seek to steal our secure information. The most informed individuals and businesses are the best equipped to thwart cyber-attacks.”
According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, Michigan residents and businesses have lost more than $20 million to cybercriminal activities so far this year, with an average victim loss of $4,500.
“Cybercrime knows no boundary, which means we all need to take precautions to safeguard our personal and business information when we are online,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the Michigan State Police. “When it comes to investigating cybercrime, the Michigan State Police has established the first of its kind Michigan Cyber Command Center, which serves as the single-point contact for investigating and solving cybercrimes through partnerships and information sharing with government agencies and private sector partners.”
State government has taken a collaborative and proactive approach to cyber defense with the creation of the Michigan Cyber Command Center, partnering with the Merit Network on the establishment of the Michigan
Cyber Range at public universities and National Guard installations and the formation of the Cyber Civilian Corps to assist in emergencies.
“The state of Michigan continues to be a national leader in creating strategies to strengthen cybersecurity,” said David Behen, Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) Director and State Chief Information Officer. “Collaboration with state and private-sector partners has strengthened the state’s ability to prevent a cyber attack and react swiftly, if necessary.”
On Oct. 26, Snyder will host the North American International Cyber Summit at the Cobo Center in Detroit. This will be the fourth cyber summit in Michigan, bringing together cyber security professionals from around the world to participate in dynamic discussions and provide the latest information in cyber technology and strategy.
The event is open to the public and will feature information for individuals, families, educators, business professionals, law enforcement and government officials. Registration is open now at www.michigan.gov/cybersummit.
To learn about staying safe and protected online, individuals are encouraged to go to the Michigan Cyber Initiative website at www.michigan.gov/cybersecurity.
Information ranging from practicing proper cyber hygiene to learning about available law enforcement resources is on the website.
––––––––––––––––––––
Subscribe to the Legal News!
https://test.legalnews.com/Home/Subscription
Full access to public notices, articles, columns, archives, statistics, calendar and more
Day Pass Only $4.95!
One-County $80/year
Three-County & Full Pass also available
