U.S. Chamber Leads Effort to Protect Businesses and Consumers Against Computer Hackers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Chamber of Commerce today joined the National Cyber Security Alliance to introduce the Stay Safe Online Campaign that will help businesses and consumers protect themselves against potential hackers.

"More than half of all Americans are connected online — and millions more join every month — which means the potential for devastating consequences from Internet viruses is growing as well," said Bruce Josten, U.S. Chamber executive vice president. "There is an urgent need to educate computer users on ways they can prevent a disaster before it happens, from hackers, thieves, and viruses."

The Chamber is a leader in a new public-private partnership called the National Cyber Security Alliance whose sole purpose is to educate the nation's more than 140 million small-businesses and home-computer users on ways they can protect their computers against unwanted predators.

The Alliance comprises about 34 companies and associations, as well as 11 federal agencies including the Department of Defense, the Department of Commerce, the General Services Administration, and the National Security Council. Today, the Alliance launches its Web site, www.staysafeonline.info, which provides consumers with practical tools to help them secure their computers or networks.

"Online security is a top priority and we must give businesses and consumers the tools they need to guard against cyber attacks," said Josten.

Cyber security is part of the Bush administration's renewed focus on homeland security, according to the Chamber. Hackers, criminals, terrorists, or even rogue states can launch cyber attacks. People and businesses should know what they can do to reduce their vulnerabilities to cyber attack and take advantage of the tools that are available to them.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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02-18