Oct. 9, 2006 -- In coordination with the National Cyber Security Alliance, a diverse group of concerned local organizations will work together in October to promote cyber security awareness in the Charlottesville-Albemarle area.

The cross-sector initiative partners the University of Virginia, U.Va. Community Credit Union, Charlottesville City Government, Albemarle County Government, Charlottesville City Schools, Albemarle County Schools, and Piedmont Virginia Community College in a community effort to help area residents learn how to protect themselves online.

In October, which is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, these organizations will co-present “Who’s Watching?”, a Cyber Security Awareness Road Show. The show will feature discussions on hot-button issues such as phishing scams, social networking sites and identity theft, the nation's fastest-growing crime.

The road shows are free and open to the public at various times and locations around Charlottesville during the week of October 16-20.

Cyber Security Awareness Road Show Dates and Locations:

•    Mon., 10/16, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Charlottesville Performing Arts Center

•    Wed., 10/18, from 12-1:30 p.m. on the 3rd floor of Newcomb Hall at U.Va.

•    Wed., 10/18, from 7- 8:30 p.m. on the Dickinson Stage at PVCC

A comprehensive Web site (http://www.WhosWatchingCharlottesville.org) includes road show topics as well as information on avoiding viruses, spyware, and adware; safer online shopping; ensuring kids’ safety online; protecting your privacy on paper; and responding to identity theft.

“We hope this Web site serves as a gateway for Charlottesville area residents to learn how best to protect themselves, their loved ones and their businesses when they use the Internet,” said Shirley Payne, director of security and policy at the University of Virginia.

“We want the ‘Who’s Watching?’ campaign to encourage people to recognize that the Web is an incredible community with much to offer, but like any community, we must understand how to protect ourselves and our loved ones from potential threats,” said Leslie Robinson, vice president of information systems at the U.Va. Community Credit Union.

“Taking just a few simple steps to protect yourself online can make an enormous difference,” added Lee Catlin, community relations manager for Albemarle County.