National Cyber Czar Named

President Obama has chosen Howard Schmidt to be White House cybersecurity coordinator, responsible for orchestrating the activities across the US government to protect US cyber networks. Schmidt brings more than 40 years of experience in government, business, and law enforcement to this position, including having served as vice chair of President Bush’s critical infrastructure protection board. Schmidt said he will focus, per Obama’s guidance, on: developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy; ensuring an organized, unified national response to threats; strengthening public-private partnerships at home and international partnerships abroad; promoting research and development of cyber technologies; and leading a national campaign to promote cybersecurity awareness and education. Obama announced his intent to create the cybersecurity coordinator post back in May. (See White House Web site blog entry on Schmidt’s appointment, including video of Schmidt introducing himself.)