The White House on Tuesday tapped a former Bush administration official to orchestrate the government's strategy for protecting national computer systems. Howard A. Schmidt, who was a cyber-adviser in
President George W. Bush's White House, will be President Obama's new cybersecurity coordinator. A letter posted on the White House Web site said Schmidt will "have regular access to the President and
serve as a key member of his National Security Staff ... He will also work closely with his economic team to ensure that our cybersecurity efforts keep the Nation secure and prosperous."
According to
The Washington Post, Schmidt faces a challenging mission: "To coordinate cybersecurity policy across the federal government, from the military to civilian agencies." His
appointment coincides with the launch of the Pentagon's new "cyber-command" unit, along with the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to improve protection of civilian networks.
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