Two things prompted me to write on this subject: First, I ran across this article in Federal Computer Week (US) called NSA, DOD push Common Criteria for civilians (English); also, I noticed from reading the WorldWatch.LinuxGazette Webalizer that nearly 2% of our hits come from US military IP addresses.

I don't think a majority of people realize how strategic the Internet has become; or maybe it would be more accurate to say, I don't think a majority of people even think about it. The US Government has produced a guide which you can download from the Whitehouse.gov site, called [US] National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace. I'd like to comment on a few things. From this document:

"Everyone who relies on part of cyberspace is encouraged to help secure the part of cyberspace that they can influence or control. To do that, users need to know the simple things that they can do to help to prevent intrusions, cyber attacks, or other security breaches. All users of cyberspace have some responsibility, not just for their own security, but also for the overall security and health of cyberspace.
In addition to the vulnerabilities in existing information technology systems, there are at least two other major barriers to users and managers acting to improve cybersecurity: (1) a lack of familiarity, knowledge, and understanding of the issues; and (2) an inability to find sufficient numbers of adequately trained
and/or appropriately certified personnel to create and manage secure systems.
Among the components of this priority are the following: 1. Promote a comprehensive national awareness program to empower all Americans