Author Archives: Tessa Zavala

What is happening? The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency doesn’t have the requisite data to protect critical infrastructure when it has no reported data on breaches. Why is this important? By looking at reported breach data security experts can more easily identify software flaws that allow for breaches. How will this be important? Breach […]

What is happening? In the last 3 years pension funds in CA, NJ, Houston Firefighters, and Fairfax County VA all invested in cryptocurrencies in different forms. Why is this important? 33% of institutional investors are in crypto. Barriers are coming down for investment including crypto as being considered illiquid. How will this be important? At […]

What’s happening? In 2021, Congress introduced 35 cryptocurrency measures Why is this important? Similar legislation has been filed in states. The legislation falls into 3 categories:  cryptocurrency regulation applications of blockchain technology (blockchain is the backbone technology for crypto) central bank digital currency How will this be important? This is all new territory with no […]

What is happening? D.C.’s attorney general proposes to shield district residents from discriminatory and biased computer algorithm. This would make it illegal for businesses to use discriminatory algorithms in areas such as education, employment, housing, and with providing services like credit, health care, and insurance. Why is this important? The policy goal of reducing sexism, racism and […]

What’s happening? Some legal experts say gaps in the law allow warrantless access to your car’s information center. A warrant may be required for your phone but your phone’s information is also stored indoor vehicles information system and that system may not need a warrant. Why is this important? The internet of things creates gaps […]

What’s happening? Miamicoin isn’t the only cryptocurrency movement in Florida. Crypto is accepted at real estate and yacht brokers to hair salons and charter jet companies in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Why is this important? Local charities are starting to show interest in crypto, including crypto donations. How will this be important? Some say […]

What is happening? Texas candidates for public office can receive contributions in crypto currency. Why is this important? The Texas Ethic Commission proposed rules will no longer require campaigns to immediately convert the crypto. The proposed rules as filed can be found here. How will this be important? Rules are anticipated to be adopted in […]

What’s happening? Rhode Island is launching a vaccine status app that will make it easier for Rhode Islanders to travel as the CDC issued paper vaccine record is inefficient. Why is this important? Use of the app by an individual or a business is 100% voluntary. How will this be important? CA, CO, RI and […]

What’s happening? The Local Government Insurance Trust in Maryland, where local governments purchase insurance including cyber policies, saw a 300% in cyber insurance premiums. Premiums are expected to rise for 2022 also. The Missouri Insurance Trust saw policies drop from $1 million in coverage to $250,000 and premiums increase from $5,000 to $25,000. Why is […]

What’s happening? States are passing bills that require disclosure of ransomware attacks. Why is this important? To paraphrase  Indiana state Rep. Mike Karickhoff, who authored his state’s legislation, if your house gets broken into, you will tell your neighbors. How will this be important? So far states are following the IN approach, requiring only disclosure […]