Lawmakers Say Empowering Vulnerable Communities Through Education to Strengthen US Cybersecurity

Sens. Gary Peters and Bill Cassidy have introduced a bill that would increase the responsibility of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency when it comes to providing cybersecurity education and training. Once approved, the Cybersecurity Awareness Act would require CISA to provide underserved communities across the country with critical access to cybersecurity training and education, FCW reported.

The proposed legislation requires CISA to launch a cybersecurity campaign that would promote best practices, including the use of secure passwords and enabling multifactor authentication.

The bill also requires close coordination and consultation by CISA with federal agencies as well as public and private offices and organizations to ensure the effectiveness of the outreach efforts.

Peters said cybersecurity defense requires a concerted effort from all sectors, including vulnerable communities, which should play their part in preventing network breaches.

In a statement, Cassidy said American families should always use best cybersecurity practices to protect themselves from cyber threats.