We’re upset every time we hear about a security breach involving thousands of names and social security numbers or credit cards. In many cases we have no choice to give the information to doctors, etc. I was recently at a medical clinic (ERLANGER PEDIATRICS OF DALTON) on January 22nd, and saw a young lady surfing her MySpace account on the same computer my information was entered. I had a sick feeling in my stomach. In short order I expect my personal information to be on the Internet for sale to the highest bidder. It might fetch up to $50.

Part of the problem is there isn't an understanding of WHAT needs to be done to protect data and fight cyber crime. Law enforcement is helping there, but they can go overboard, case in point the new federal laws being presented that would require all Internet providers and operators of millions of Wi-Fi access points to keep logs for two years. That means you, the homeowner, the businessman, the coffee shop, hotels, etc etc. http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/02/20/internet.records.bill/index.html?eref=rss_tech

Most of you have never seen a log, now you will have to preserve them. When that guy pulls up to your neighbor's house and surfs YOUR unprotected access point he/she may be downloading child porn, and it will be up to you to assist law enforcement to catch them.

So yes, YOU will be responsible for maintaining logs if this law is passed. It's not that it is a bad law, there are many good components. But like I said, there isn't an understanding of WHAT needs to be done, let's start there.

First, secure your access point. Force manufacturers to enforce encryption and authentication on their products. Second, know who you're giving access to. Third, place the burden on the ISP to maintain the logs for you as part of their service (Another law). THEY should know WHO is on their network at all times. I can hear the shouting now, rights issues. But let's face it, it's out of control. Who needs to hide when there are open access points all over the world. Fourth, let's get real, these things will stop an amateur, but it's the pro's committing the big crimes. Let’s give government the flexibility they need to catch these "pro's". Fifth - ask the government to create real standards and hold business AND government agencies accountable, punishable by law. (Please don't let people surf the Internet on the same network as my SSN)

There is no magic bullet. But it will be up to us, WE THE PEOPLE, not business, not government, but a collaboration, starting with us requiring our government and business to work toward a common goal: Securing our networks.