01/28/2004: 
Fraud & Conspiracy
US Computer Alert Readiness Team
from Department of Homeboyland Security
Washington, DC – January 28, 2004 –The National Cyber Security Division (NCSD) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today unveiled the National Cyber Alert System, an operational system delivering to Americans timely and actionable information to better secure their computer systems.
As part of this program, Homeland Security is making available a series of information products targeted for home users and technical experts in businesses and government agencies. These e-mail products will provide timely information on computer security vulnerabilities, potential impact, and action required to mitigate threats, as well as PC security "best practices" and "how to" guidance.
"The President's National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace provides a framework for the public and private sectors to work together to secure cyberspace," said Frank Libutti, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection. "The National Cyber Security Division's mission is to serve as a focal point for implementing the National Strategy and protecting the American People."
"The development and initial operating capability of the National Cyber Alert System elevates awareness and helps improve America's IT security posture," said Amit Yoran, director of the National Cyber Security Division. "We are focused on making the threats and recommended actions easier for all computer users to understand, prioritize, and act upon. We recognize the importance and urgency of our mission and are taking action."
Who is the US-Computer Alert Readiness Team you ask? "US-CERT is run as a partnership between the NCSD at the Department of Homeland Security and the private sector." Just who in the private sector? The Business Software Alliance (BSA?). Who is the Business Software Alliance? Harder to discern. Looks like an industry funded anti-piracy "education" group. One of the major funders is Entrust who makes lame security software. Also in the private sector is the the ITAA, The Information Technology Association of America. Their board has names like Amazon, Lockeed Martin, AT&T, and Northrop Grumman. Hmmm.
