In collaboration with Mississippi State University's renowned Center for Computer Security Research, the Texas Cyber Security Research and Training Institute will provide data security and technology-based emergency preparedness training to law enforcement personnel. The second-in-the-nation research and training institute will help ensure Texas stays at the forefront of the nation's battle against cyber crime.
During remarks at the Institute's inaugural ceremony, Attorney General Abbott described cyber criminals' increased prevalence and emphasized the importance of cutting edge solutions to technology crimes.
"From the child predators who prey upon children online, to the identity thieves behind cutting-edge botnets and phishing schemes, criminals are using emerging technology to violate the law and harm innocent Texans," said Abbott. "The Texas Cyber Security Research and Training Institute will cultivate technological innovation and foster improved technical expertise within the law enforcement community. Just as we launched a Cyber Crimes Unit to arrest online predators before they harm children, this Institute will develop the tools law enforcement needs to stop the next generation of cyber criminals."
Smith County Sheriff J.B. Smith, Tyler Mayor Joey Seeber, Tyler Police Chief Gary Swindle, University of Texas at Tyler President Rodney Mabry, and College of Education Dean Jim Nelson were among the local dignitaries who participated in the inaugural ceremony.
The UT Tyler initiative includes the Texas First-Responder Cyber Security Training (TxFRST) Program, which will provide basic computer forensics training that is critical to child pornography, identity theft, credit card fraud, and terrorism investigations. TxFRST training will be provided at no cost to law enforcement personnel.
Working to educate parents and children about potential dangers posed by online predators in chat rooms and social networking sites, Attorney General Abbott and the Cyber Crimes Unit have conducted dozens of interactive town hall meetings across the state. Parents, educators, and students who wish to learn more about cyber predators can watch an informative town hall meeting by visiting www.texasattorneygeneral.gov.
The Institute is working cooperatively with the Office of the Attorney General, the University of Texas at Tyler Police Department, Tyler Police Department, Smith County Sheriff's Department and Mississippi State University in the federally-funded venture.
