National Cyber Security Alliance Targets Identity Theft During National Cyber Security Awareness Month

National Cyber Security Alliance Targets Identity Theft During National Cyber Security Awareness Month

NCSA Awareness Campaign Addresses Consumers' Growing Concern About Online Safety - Reinforces the Importance of Safe Cyber Security Practices and Behaviors

WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), a not-for-profit, public-private partnership focused on increasing online security awareness among home users, small business and the education community, today announced the kick-off of the second annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month, a national collaborative effort by the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Trade Commission, state governments, major universities and the Internet industry to educate Internet users of all ages about safe online practices.

Although the scope and cost of identity theft are vast, it is clear consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about online identity theft and/or phishing, and are limiting online activities because of these threats. According to a recent survey(1), Internet users are less likely to open unknown email, provide personal information and contribute to charities online, due to fears about identity theft. Additionally, the individuals polled think they are 50 percent more likely to become a victim of a phishing scam in the upcoming year than they are to experience a home break-in.

In an effort to curb growing concerns and increase awareness, the NCSA is focusing its efforts throughout the month of October, and beyond, to educate Internet users on how to protect themselves online. According to the Federal Trade Commission, identity theft has become an epidemic in the U.S. Every year, as many as ten million Americans are victimized by this crime, at a cost of more than $50 billion. In addition, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) reports that hijacking consumers' bank accounts is the fastest growing form of identity theft, and 70% of fraud victims in 2004, reported they used online banking and paid their bills on the Internet.

"Phishing attacks and identity theft not only harm consumers as individuals, they undermine the public's trust in vital online activities such as online shopping, banking and even e-mail use," said Ron Teixeira, Executive Director, National Cyber Security Alliance. "Our goal during National Cyber Security Awareness Month is to shine a spotlight on this issue, and provide consumers, small businesses and the education community with tools and practical advice to protect against this growing problem."

Although consumers are clearly concerned about criminal threats online, they don't necessarily know what precautions and practices they can take to drastically reduce the risks of becoming an identity theft victim. That is why National Cyber Security Awareness Month will feature a number of national and local multi-media events that will highlight practical steps that consumers can take to stay safe online. Some of these events will include:

   -- A national public service announcement entitled "Stop Think Click,"       which urges consumers to protect their valuable personal data through       a variety of online best practices;    -- Regional Small Business Cyber Security Workshops, which are sponsored       by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Small Business Administration,       National Institute of Science and Technology and Multi-State ISAC;    -- A Cyber Safety Multi-Media Event, featuring New York Governor George       Pataki    -- Numerous Cyber Security Awareness events on College Campuses all over       the country;    -- Governors and Congress declaring October National Cyber Security       Awareness Month  

These are only a few events that will occur on the national, state and local levels in October. All these events are geared to make consumers aware how cyber security is necessary to ease the minds of consumers, prevent online identity theft and provide users with tools to combat this threat.

"Although we will be increasing the volume of our message during October, online safety is a mission that must be accomplished on a daily basis," said Teixeira. "The scope and impact of existing and emerging online threats requires an ongoing partnership between government, businesses, schools and consumers. Working together, we can provide Americans with the tools and information they need to practice of safe online behaviors during October and throughout the year."

For more information regarding National Cyber Security Awareness Month and online safety tips, please visit: www.staysafeonline.org.

About The National Cyber Security Alliance

A not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) is a central clearinghouse for cyber security awareness and education for home users, small businesses, and the education community. A public-private partnership, NCSA sponsors include the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Trade Commission, and many private-sector corporations and organizations. For more information, and to review the top 8 cyber security practices, visit www.staysafeonline.org.

(1) According to a September 2005 omnibus survey conducted by NCSA with Russell Research

Source: National Cyber Security Alliance

CONTACT: Joanna Andrade of Porter Novelli, +1-408-369-4620, or
joanna.andrade@porternovelli.com, for NCSA

Web site: http://www.staysafeonline.org/