October 2015

House Communications Subcommittee Ranking Member Anna Eshoo (D-CA) introduced legislation to combat the alarming rate of cyberattacks and cybercrime against US computer networks. The Promoting Good Cyber Hygiene Act builds on President Barack Obama’s 2013 Executive Order by instructing the National Institute of Standards and Technology, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Homeland Security, to establish voluntary best practices for network security, such as not using a default password and regularly applying software updates. The Promoting Good Cyber Hygiene Act would help both system administrators and consumers better protect their networks and devices against known cyber threats by:

• Establishing a baseline set of voluntary best practices
• Ensuring these practices are reviewed and updated annually
• Making the established best practices available in a clear and concise manner on a publicly accessible website
• Instructing the Department of Homeland Security to study cybersecurity threats relating to mobile devices

On Sept 30, I proposed to my colleagues that we include in the AM radio revitalization item an exclusive window for AM broadcasters to obtain new FM translators. This was the lead proposal in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking unanimously adopted in 2013 under the leadership of then-Acting Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn. It has received overwhelming support, including previously from a majority of the Federal Communications Commission’s current members. The moment of decision has arrived; Commissioners will now have to decide with whom they will stand. Will they stand with AM broadcasters across the country?...Will they stand for revitalization of a communications service that predates the FCC itself and has exemplified localism, competition, and diversity in broadcasting?

Digital technology now dominates how many Americans interact with the world: how people get their news, talk with loved ones, and how they work. The most recent Allstate/National Journal Heartland Monitor poll looked at the impact the digital revolution has had on American’s lives. When it comes to whether or not technology has had a vast impact, the answer is overwhelmingly yes. Thirty-nine percent of respondents said that the ability to access information from anywhere has made their lives better. They also cited the ease of working outside of the office and staying in touch as positive outcomes of the digital revolution. Two of the most visible ways that technology has permeated American culture -- online shopping and entertainment-streaming services -- were amenities Americans cared much less about, with only 7 percent or respondents saying these advances had improve their lives.

Despite the fact that most Americans agree that the Internet and the advancements that followed made their lives better, there was one thing they were resoundingly negative about: the loss of their privacy. While tasks like shopping and keeping up on the news have become more convenient, many questioned whether technology brought the world to their doorstep at the cost of protecting their most essential information.