A local lawmaker has introduced a bill to create a state Cybersecurity Czar position.  A public hearing was held yesterday on the proposal from Senator Tony Hwang, whose district includes Newtown. 

Just last month, Apple users were alerted to a glitch in the FaceTime app allowing anyone calling to gain access to the recipient’s microphone and even a live feed of the recipient’s front-facing camera, even if they decline the call.  Hwang says the breach of privacy highlights the need for government and private sector to coordinate on individual user privacy.

The Cybersecurity Czar would be part of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, and broaden the scope of the current Chief Cybersecurity Risk Officer beyond the Department of Administrative Services.  The new position would also focus on National and State Homeland Security including security of utilities and infrastructure.