Awareness is key to defending against computer attacks.

• Position: News & Numbers - Brief article

Computer security is a real concern for state and local governments. Governments need to be aware that cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated--and increasingly harmful--according to a new report from Johns Hopkins University.

The report--Defending Cyberspace: Protecting Individuals, Government Agencies and Private Companies Against Persistent and Evolving Threats--provides a sobering summary of the situation, as well as some recommendations for dealing with it. Suggestions include building cyber-security into the organization's culture and daily activities, and making security an integral part of systems and processes ("bake it in, don't try just to bolt it on"). Governments also need to be aware that attackers exploit weak links in security, so all business partners should be required to meet appropriate standards. The report also encourages the public and private sectors to share information, including best practices and alert warnings, listing a number of organizations that can help with...