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News Story...

Microsoft, Symantec, McAfee, banks and consumers to front Cyber Crime Inquiry

Laptop with chains around it The IT industry leaders such as Microsoft and computer security companies like Symantec and McAfee, plus consumer groups, and banks were among those appearing before the House of Representatives Communications Committee Inquiry into Cyber Crime in October at NSW Parliament House, Sydney.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a US company that controls the domain name system, will appear and answer questions on how Internet security can be strengthened. The Committee will also hear the views of major IT companies, including Microsoft Australia, Symantec Corporation, McAfee and Lockstep Technologies on measures to promote online security and protect personal information. The NSW Police, the Privacy Commissioner for Victoria and IT professionals will also be represented along with the Bankers Association, Commonwealth Bank and Westpac. Consumer issues will be addressed by the Internet Society, the Australian Communications Consumers Network and the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association.

Committee Chair Belinda Neal said “Cyber criminals are infecting the Internet with thousands of new pieces of unique malware everyday.”

“These criminals are becoming more sophisticated, incorporating innocent PC users into massive botnets that steal credit card details and other personal information from online consumers. The Internet is rapidly expanding at the same time that broadband speeds will increase, so we must stay on top of the security issues,” Ms Neal said.

“Internet services and e-commerce generates millions of dollars of profit each year. It is time for the industry to accept that, while user education is important, all the players have a responsibility towards their customers.

“The Internet performs an important public function and policy and lawmakers need to join with the Internet Service Providers, IT companies, Domain Name Registrars, law enforcement and consumers in a candid dialogue about roles and responsibilities.”

Further information on the inquiry, including the hearing programs and terms of reference can be obtained from the Committee’s web site.

 

More information

Visit: Communcations Committee, Inquiry into Cyber Crime

Read: Public hearing programs

Read: Relevant submissions on the Inquiry website

 

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