Source URL: https://it.slashdot.org/story/24/11/25/0539244/craigslist-founder-gives-300m-to-fund-critical-us-infrastructure-cybersecurity?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: Craigslist Founder Gives $300M to Fund Critical US Infrastructure Cybersecurity
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Summary: Craig Newmark expresses serious concerns about cybersecurity risks in the U.S. and is actively funding initiatives to bolster the protection of critical infrastructure. His philanthropic efforts include a combined investment of $300 million focused on developing a Cyber Civil Defense network to combat cyber threats and enhance public education and awareness in cybersecurity.
Detailed Description: Craig Newmark, the founder of Craigslist, has recently voiced alarm regarding the cybersecurity vulnerabilities facing the United States. In an interview with Yahoo Finance, he highlighted several critical points:
– **Financial Commitment**: Newmark has pledged a total of $300 million to various cybersecurity initiatives. This includes an additional $200 million to address urgent needs for protecting American infrastructure.
– **Urgent Call to Action**: He urges other wealthy individuals to contribute funding to support protective measures against cyberattacks, emphasizing that the amounts required for investments are relatively small compared to the potential consequences of inaction.
– **Focus on Infrastructure**: Newmark stresses the vulnerability of municipalities and government entities, advocating for a proactive rather than reactive approach to cybersecurity. He points out that many small companies and utilities, which oversee essential services such as electricity, transportation, and food distribution, lack adequate protection.
– **Cyber Civil Defense Network**: He is working on establishing a network that encompasses various groups dedicated to defending against cyber threats. This initiative aims to foster community-level involvement in cybersecurity.
– **Emphasis on Education and Literacy**: The core components of this network include organizations such as Aspen Digital, Global Cyber Alliance, and Consumer Reports, which focus on citizen education in cybersecurity, the development of cyber tools, and the diversification of the cybersecurity workforce.
– **Recognizing Real Threats**: Newmark’s comments reflect a recognition of the substantial risks posed by cyberattacks on power grids and the growing number of internet-connected devices in homes. He advocates for public awareness regarding the realities of these risks.
– **Established Partnerships**: Investments have already been made in organizations like the Ransomware Task Force and Shadowserver Foundation, indicating a commitment to bolster the cybersecurity landscape comprehensively.
This strategy of building a Cyber Civil Defense network and investing significantly in cybersecurity initiatives underscores the increasing necessity for both public and private sectors to collaborate in enhancing the security of critical infrastructures against cyber threats.