New internet security alliance launches

The group will focus on educating internet users and policy makers about internet security, based on the belief that everyone in the internet community - ISPs, software developers, ecommerce firms, and users - must work to improve cybersecurity.

Founding members of ASI are the Association for Competitive Technology, CapNet, CompTIA, Consumer Alert, eBay, Giga Trust, the Internet Alliance, Internet Security Systems, Orbitz, TechNet, TRUSTe, and VeriSign.

ASI is among several groups that have formed to promote internet security. The National Cyber Security Partnership, a group of business and technology groups, recently issued its initial recommendations for improving internet security. In February, a group of IT security vendors, launched the Cyber Security Industry Alliance.

"While there are other organizations focusing on particular aspects of internet security, Americans for a Secure Internet is the first to represent the broader set of interests within the internet community, including home users, businesses, and educational institutions," Ken Silva, VeriSign vice president for networks and security, said in a prepared statement.

www.protectingthenet.org