The growing number of attacks on our cyber networks has become, in President Obama’s words, “one of the most serious economic and national security threats our nation faces.” Modern society is deeply reliant on the services and information readily available through cyberspace. Unfortunately, the technologies that enrich our professional and personal lives also empower those who would benefit from carrying out cyber-crime and the associated disruption to our way of life.
This is why government leaders like Nevada Governor Sandoval are emphasizing the need to make safeguarding and securing cyberspace a critical priority across the Nation. In support of this priority, on October 1, 2013, during National Cyber Security Awareness Month, CyberSafeNV will launch www.CyberSafeNV.org. This website is our primary tool for fulfilling our mission to strengthen Nevada’s residents’ and businesses’ understanding of safe, responsible and secure computing and Internet practices through education and awareness.
This non-profit organization evolved from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant program awarded to Nevada in 2012. The State of Nevada secured the award of the grant to strengthen the State’s cyber security posture through the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS).
“Cyber security is a growing issue in our state and our country and I’m very pleased Nevada has been chosen for this award,” Governor Sandoval said. “As we grow our technology infrastructure, Nevada needs to maintain a leadership position in this area.”
After a series of CIAS seminars, workshops and exercises, the need to continue to increase community awareness of cyber security issues and practices was identified; thus, came about CyberSafeNV.