Torres Convenes Cybersecurity Seminar to Prepare Local Governments for Cyber Threats
ONTARIO, CA – Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona) held a Cybersecurity seminar where local leaders were briefed by federal officials from the Department of Homeland Security, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and private sector professionals on the latest cyber threats and how to prepare for them.
"The recent cyber-attack on the Maersk shipping company which shut down part of the Port of LA showed just how cyber-attacks have the potential to bring the global economy to a standstill," said Torres. "We have seen over the past few years that cyber criminals are not only targeting large corporations and institutions, but that our local governments and commerce are also under attack. Today's expert panel provided essential information and resources to local government officials and law enforcement on how to take steps to protect our critical information and address these threats."
Taking part in today's briefing were: Deron McElroy, Chief of Operations-West at the Department of Homeland Security; Marian Merritt, Lead for Industry Engagement at the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Educations at the US Department of Commerce; and Salim Neino, CEO of Kryptos Logic, the Los Angeles cybersecurity company that identified the worldwide "WannaCry" ransomware before it could do the kind of damage to the U.S. that it did in other countries.
"It was an honor to participate as a guest speaker in this very important Cybersecurity briefing hosted by Congresswoman Torres today," said Neino. "I believe only way we will be effective in protecting against emerging cyber security threats is if we work together - we need to increase awareness, improve collaboration, share meaningful intelligence, and work to bridge the divide that exists between the Cyber security community and government."
Today's briefing was held at the Ontario Police Department. Attendees at the briefing included leaders from local municipal governments and representatives from local law enforcement agencies.