That the Internet has become a globalization tool for commerce, education, logistics and networking is almost universally lauded as a benefit to people everywhere. But the darker side that is taken up by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Congress concerns what measures we ought to use to protect our nation’s vital infrastructure against “mass instruction” turning into “mass destruction” and the Internet becoming a weapon. The attacks on 9-11 were perpetrated by rogues with mere box cutters and basic flying lessons. How much more sophisticated must our defenses become to remain vigilant in a world of global online ubiquity?
Earlier this year, Congressman Norm Dicks, the 36 year representative of Washington’s 6th Congressional District, the ranking member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee and the eight year member of the House Intelligence Committee, announced that “FBI Director Mueller [had] warned that cyber attacks will soon become one of the biggest threats to America’s safety, possibly surpassing the threat level posed by terrorism.
“I believe that the Director is absolutely correct,” said Dicks, “and I am happy to note that the bill for DHS’s critical cybersecurity activities – including intrusion detection and continuous monitoring – increases funding by $300 million over FY 2012. Within this amount is $202 million, as requested, for DHS to assist other Federal agencies in enhancing their cybersecurity efforts. I worry that not enough is being done to secure Federal civilian networks, and it is imperative that DHS becomes a very strong leader in this regard.”
Norm’s allegiance to defense, which may trace all the way back to his days as a Washington Husky defensive linebacker, have not been without both fierce advocates and controversy, and have encompassed such incendiary issues as the FISA Act, the NSA electronic surveillance program and the PRO-IP Act. Dubbed “Mr. Boeing,” Dicks has also supported the acquisition of military aircraft on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
For a rare opportunity to hear Norm Dick’s speak about cyber security and intellectual property, two issues he has championed from one of the highest seats in United States government, and be a part of history as Dicks vacates that leadership position after an incredible 18 terms in Congress, plan to attend this Wednesday’s half-day Western Washington Summit. Get a preview of this unique event’s stellar lineup, combining local officials, noted economists, local chambers, business leaders and the best-selling author and director of the Consumer Electronics Show, at the Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside. The proceedings run from 4:00-8:00p.m. Full story in ShopTalk. [24×7]
