Cyber Security Summit Planned for Oct. 29 at Detroit’s Cobo Center

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The North American International Cyber Summit is planned for Oct. 29 at Detroit’s Cobo Center. This is the seventh cyber summit in Michigan and will bring together cyber security professionals from around the world.

The summit comes at a valuable time, as the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center reported Michigan residents and businesses have lost more than $36 million to cybercriminal activities so far this year, with an average victim loss of more than $6,000.

Michigan has also taken action by creating the Michigan Cyber Command Center, a partnership with the Merit Network on the establishment of the Michigan Cyber Range at public universities and National Guard installations and the formation of the Cyber Civilian Corps to assist in emergencies.

“Michigan has become a national leader in recognizing the need to have partnerships between the public and private sectors,” says Dave DeVries, director of the Michigan Department of Technology, Managment and Budget (DTMB) and state chief information officer. “It will take a continued collaborative effort across the nation to keep sensitive data safe from those wishing to do harm or profit through cybercrimes.”

The DTMB, the Michigan State Police, and the Michigan National Guard will promote ways to be safe and secure online as part of the Michigan Cyber Initiative throughout October.

“Cybercriminals pose a serious threat to the daily routines and connected lifestyles of Michiganders,” says Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the Michigan State Police. “As virtual crime evolves, so does our response. The Michigan Cyber Command Center provides a single point of contact to investigate and prosecute Michigan’s cybercrimes through partnerships and information sharing with government agencies and businesses.”

The Michigan Cyber Initiative website provides information ranging from practicing proper cyber hygiene to learning about available law enforcement.

The summit is open to the public and will feature information for individuals, families, educators, business professionals, law enforcement, and government officials. Registration, the agenda, and speakers are available here.

For the third year, the summit will also be the location for the finals of the Governor’s High School Cyber Challenge, which tests students’ skills in computer science, information technology, and cybersecurity in a two-round statewide competition. Round one takes place Oct. 2-5 online, and round two culminates at the summit.