Microsoft to Help Fund New Global Cybersecurity Organization

Microsoft has announced its intent to provide initial funding to the CyberPeace Institute, a new international organization focused on promoting cybersecurity in critical industries and infrastructure.

Tom Burt, corporate vice president for customer security and trust at Microsoft, wrote in a blog post published Thursday that the institute will work to coordinate recovery activities for cyberattack victims, conduct cybersecurity research and launch efforts to promote responsible cyberspace activities.

“The internet is the creation of the private sector, which is primarily responsible for its operation, evolution and security,” said Burt. “But governments have an important role to play in observing and enforcing norms for conduct in cyberspace and in deterring damaging attacks by other nations.”

He added that the government, industry and academia must come together to support such efforts, and that victims of cyber attacks “deserve similar assistance” as those who were impacted by war and natural disasters.

Other initial investors for the CyberPeace Institute include the Hewlett Foundation and Mastercard.