Vulnerabilities in Cyberspace

Our economic vitality and national security depend on a vast array of interdependent and critical networks, systems, services, and resources known as cyberspace. Cyberspace has transformed the ways  we communicate, travel, power our homes, run our economy, and obtain government services.

But as we become more dependent on cyberspace, we face new risks. Adversaries are working day and night to use our dependence on cyberspace against us. Sophisticated cyber criminals and nation-states, among others, present risks to our economy and national security.

Preparing the Nation for Cyber Threats

DHS works to safeguard and secure cyberspace through programs such as the Stop.Think.Connect.™ Campaign, a national public awareness effort that aims to ensure the public both recognizes cybersecurity challenges and is empowered to address them.

DHS is working collaboratively with government entities, the private sector, and non-profit organizations to identify solutions that take into account both public and private interests, ensuring that the Nation is prepared for the cyber threats and challenges of today and tomorrow.

Promoting Cybersecurity Awareness

Since its launch in 2010, Stop.Think.Connect. has led outreach and awareness efforts to carry out the DHS cyber mission of providing citizens with resources and tools to protect themselves, their families, and the nation against growing cyber threats.  A number of initiatives have helped achieve these results:

• The National Network spreads cybersecurity awareness across the country to people of all ages. The National Network consists of non-profit groups and organizations that advocate and promote cybersecurity to their members and communities.

• The Cyber Tour Program engages entire communities in cybersecurity awareness featuring involvement from academia, industry, non-profits, and government.

• Outreach efforts with youth organizations has also protects millions of children from online threats; these initiatives have included work with the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) America, 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and YWCA.