October is National Information/Cyber Security Month

World-Class Information and Cyber Security Experts Presenting to West Virginia

On October 5, 2010 dynamic presentations, delivered by world-class experts in the areas of cyber threats, on effective practices to safeguard computer information (with an emphasis on individual responsibility, accountability, risk management, and privacy issues) will take place at the West Virginia Culture Center.

This free, day-long program is offered by the West Virginia Office of Technology’s Office of Information Security and Controls (www.technology.wv.gov/security) for public sector officials and employees.  In addition, the general public is encouraged to attend.

Governor Joe Manchin will have proclaimed October as National Information/Cyber Security Month in West Virginia and the day’s events will underscore the imperative for all to use strong safeguards online.

Featured speakers include Will Pelgrin (www.msisac.org), a national leader in the promotion of cyber-security information sharing in the public sector.  Founder of the Multi State Information Sharing and Analysis Center, Mr. Pelgrin has raised the bar on collaboration, and has advised the Obama administration on cyber-security enhancement strategies.  Patrick Gray, Senior Security Strategist at Cisco and 20 year veteran of the FBI, will premier the new West Virginia centric information and cyber security training video being developed by his team, and focus on the variety of threat vectors that put public sector data at risk.   Evan Patterson, Special Agent here in West Virginia, will underscore the threats inherent in cyber socializing using Social Networking sites familiar to most attendees.  Rob Dixon, architect of the WV Information Security Operations Center, will discuss, in generic terms, some of the internal controls utilized in the State environment to reduce risk. Rob will surprise and enlighten attendees with some of the startling insights uncovered by his team.

“There will be something of value in this event for everyone.” said Jim Richards, West Virginia’s Chief Information Security Officer.  “We are hoping to reach even more West Virginians this year, and build on the value that was recognized and expressed in feedback forms by last year’s attendees.”

While the event is free, all attendees must be registered.  Pre-registration is preferred to speed the check-in process and get attendance badges prepared.  Online information and registration is available at www.wv.gov/services/pages/infosec-conference.aspx.   Registration confirmation priority will be given to public sector employees. People with special seating needs can indicate this in the online registration form.

Doors at the Culture Center will open at 8:30 a.m. for on-site check-in.  The event will begin at 9:15 a.m. and is scheduled to conclude at 3 p.m.  There will be a one hour break for lunch.

Please note that food and beverages are not permitted in the Culture Center Theater.