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Computer Safety
The Internet has brought many advantages to our society. The benefits cannot be understated - it is easier for us to stay in touch with our family and friends, while businesses are able to run more efficiently. We can book our travel plans in an instant, buy just about anything, and pay our bills online. But, unfortunately, with the added advantages of the World Wide Web, come certain dangers and potential threats to our person safety and security.
Congress is doing what it can to educate people about computer safety and enact legislation that protects consumers. I was a cosponsor of legislation to crack down unsolicited Email, known as spam. The CAN-SPAM Act allows consumers to block unwanted and unsolicited commercial e-mail, and includes a host of important measures that allow law enforcement to track down Spam abusers. The law also gives consumers the tools to fight back. This bill was signed into this bill into law (P.L. 108-187), and it went into effect on January 1, 2004. Unfortunately, legislation alone cannot solve the problem. Consumer education and technological advancements also are needed.
The Federal Trade Commission launched a website, www.onguardonline.gov, to provide information on how to protect yourself online. The site includes tips on guarding against Internet fraud, securing computers from viruses and hackers, and protecting personal information.
Identity theft is often associated with online crimes, visit my page on identity theft for more information.
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