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Cyber crime and cyber terrorism are currently the fastest growing threats to individuals in the United States.   In response to these threats, the New York State Senate will hold a series of public hearings convened by three Senate committees to review current cyber security preparedness in New York State.

In announcing the hearings, the Senators stated that as the center of international commerce, comprehensive action needs to be taken to protect all New Yorkers from cyber crime.

The hearings will be jointly conducted by the Senate Standing Committee on Codes – chaired by Senator Michael Nozzolio; Senate Standing Committee on Consumer Protection – chaired by Senator Michael Venditto; and the Senate Standing Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs – chaired by Senator Thomas Croci.

The Committee Chairman will be investigating New York State's current cyber security infrastructure; cyber security in retail, financial, and other commercial sectors; technical solutions to cyber crime; and legal responses to cyber criminal activity.

"Cyber terrorism and cyber crimes continue to be some of the most serious threats to our national security and our personal privacy," said Nozzolio. "These hearings will thoroughly examine what our State is doing to prevent cyber attacks that could affect our security, our economy and our government.  As Chairman of the Senate Codes Committee, I am proud to work with my colleagues to address this vitally important issue."

Venditto said, "In this ever-evolving world of technology, the ease and convenience of the internet comes with its share of risks. My hope is these hearings will shed light on cyber security and give consumers, retailers and other sectors the tools they need to protect their online data. As Chairman of the Consumer Protection Committee, I want to ensure all New Yorkers have access to the information and vital programs that will educate them about protecting their digital identity."

"Cybercrime is a pervasive and rapidly-expanding threat. Statistics show that cybercrime has now surpassed illegal drug trafficking as a criminal moneymaker and it's our job to ensure that we're adopting the best practices and have the necessary resources to protect our critical information infrastructure, as well as to protect the personal information of our residents," adds Croci.

The first hearing will be conducted in New York City on May 14, 2015 at 10:00am, at 250 Broadway.

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