Tech Firms May Get More Oversight

Recent breaches reviewed in testimony and briefings on the Hill have left Congress concerned that Tech Giants with gaps in their cybersecurity could be putting government websites and information at risk.  Some are proposing that the Department of Homeland Security should have the power to force Tech Giants and the owners of networks to secure themselves better.

What might this mean?

If the bill is too large and vast, this could impact tiny startups.    According to an article written by Jeremy A. Kaplan, the bill is called, "The Homeland Security Cyber and Physical Infrastructure Protection Act of 2010 or HR 6423" and the sponsor is Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, D-Miss.

The current draft of the bill gives DHS the power:
a.  to set security standards for the networks at privately held facilities
b.  they could levy penalties on websites DHS names as having gaps in cybersecurity

The current draft also creates a "Cybersecurity Compliance Division".

What is your opinion?

How do you feel about the technology company that may be providing the power behind a website that collects and displays your personal information?  Do you want tighter, the same, or less oversight of how your information is handled?

What should this look like?

Is the status quo acceptable?

Sources:

"Bill Could Give Homeland Security Power Over Tech Giants", FoxNews.com, Jeremy A. Kaplan, November 23, 2010.