A RECOVERY FOR ALL OF US: NYC SECURE APP ADDS PHISHING DETECTION, GIVING ALL NEW YORKERS MORE PROTECTION ONLINE

 

 In New York City’s continuing effort to keep New Yorkers safe in their digital lives and ensure we can securely rebuild our economy, Mayor de Blasio announced today the newest upgrade of the NYC Secure mobile app, which now guards against criminals who try to steal New Yorker’s personal information via “phishing” attacks. 

“Online commerce and communication has become a vital lifeline for so many during the pandemic,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “With this upgrade, we’re continuing our commitment to the safety of New Yorkers beyond the City streets and into their digital lives.”

 

“Not only was New York City the first city in the world to provide such services to all residents and visitors free of charge, but we did it in a way that reflects our values—putting user privacy at the forefront,” said Laura Anglin, Deputy Mayor for Operations. “More than one in five data breaches last year involved phishing. These upgrades will help our City, our residents and our businesses by avoiding attacks that could jeopardize their finances, livelihoods, or personal safety.”

 

“New York City is democratizing cybersecurity with our NYC Secure program,” said Geoff Brown, Chief Information Security Officer for the City of New York. “This is an equity issue: without NYC Secure, many would not be able to access enterprise grade cyber-defenses.”

 

Phishing scams attempt to trick individuals into giving up sensitive information (like passwords, personal or account information), by appearing to be legitimate requests from trusted sources. As the COVID crisis unfolded across the globe, mobile phishing attempts have grown substantially.

 

NYC Secure’s new phishing detection empowers residents, allowing them to check if a link might be an attempt to steal their data—whether received via email or text, posted on social media or other apps and websites. It also helps build awareness by providing educational resources on how to spot phishing attempts. The new capabilities build on existing features that issue warnings to users when suspicious activity is detected on the user’s mobile devices, including connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, compromised websites, and malicious apps.

 

Mobile devices account for more than half of all web traffic. And, according to the Pew Research Center, almost one in five Americans are smartphone-only users, with reliance on smartphones for online access is particularly concentrated among younger adults, non-whites and lower-income Americans.

 

True to its founding principles, the NYC Secure app continues to provide security without accessing any personally identifiable information, and does not collect or transmit any private data.

 

Since its inception in 2018, the NYC Secure app has been downloaded almost 150,000 times. In addition, as part of the broader NYC Secure initiative, NYC Cyber Command has deployed world-class security and privacy protections on more than 2,500 public Wi-Fi hotspots across all five boroughs, adding an additional layer of digital security for anyone who connects to them.

 

“As New York City battles back against the coronavirus, digital infrastructure that allows our residents to thrive in the digital space is vital to a full recovery,” said Lorraine Grillo, Senior Advisor for Recovery. “This is an example of the city’s dedication to the comprehensive security of all New Yorkers, both in their physical and digital lives.”

 

“At a time when many small businesses are relying on digital tools to stay connected and afloat, ensuring employees and employers have the necessary cybersecurity protections are all the more important,” said Jonnel Doris, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Small Business Services. “The NYC Secure Program will help bridge the digital divide and deliver services to protect our communities.”

 

“Scammers often take advantage of vulnerable people during times of crisis and distress,” said Bitta Mostofi Commissioner of the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs. “This update to the NYC Secure app, available in multiple languages, is just one way New York City is working to ensure our communities have access to resources that can help protect them from fraud.”

 

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - MARCH 2, 2021

 

5,369 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide

1,076 Patients in the ICU; 747 Intubated

Statewide Positivity Rate is 4.53%

82 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday   

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

"New Yorkers have shown grit, determination and dedication over the past year and while progress has been made and there are vaccines going in arms every day, we need to remain steadfast in defeating this beast," Governor Cuomo said. "Vigilance is crucial as we continue this battle and now is not the time to settle into complacency. There are precautions and guidelines in place that we know work - wearing masks, socially distancing and hand washing. As we continue to vaccinate New Yorkers, we must continue these practices until we reach critical mass with the vaccine. New Yorkers have seen dark days, but we know there is a light at the end of the tunnel and every day we are closer to seeing the completion of our goals."  

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Test Results Reported - 128,034
• Total Positive - 5,800
• Percent Positive - 4.53% 
• 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 3.09% 
• Patient Hospitalization - 5,369 (+62) 
• Net Change Patient Hospitalization Past Week - -608
• Patients Newly Admitted - 502 
• Hospital Counties - 53
• Number ICU - 1,076 (+11) 
• Number ICU with Intubation - 747 (+6) 
• Total Discharges - 147,149 (+338) 
• Deaths - 82 
• Total Deaths - 38,660 

DISTRICT COUNCIL 37 PREPARES CITY WORKFORCE FOR THE FUTURE WITH NEW GREEN JOBS TRAINING INITIATIVE

The DC 37 Green Jobs Training Initiative will provide technical training, environmental literacy, and hands-on experience

 District Council 37 (DC 37), New York City’s largest municipal labor union, today announced a new training initiative to prepare workers for energy efficiency jobs related to addressing the impact of climate change. The DC 37 Green Jobs Training Initiative, which will launch this spring, will provide technical training, environmental literacy, and hands-on experience to train a portion of its 150,000 members and the general public.

 

Building on DC 37’s existing education and workforce training programs that provide City workers with basic job skills, technical training, and leadership development, this new expanded partnership will provide City employees with the experience and confidence to be the next generation of green job workers. DC 37’s goal is to develop essential, sustainable training components and grow an energy efficiency economy, equipped to spearhead future demands of green jobs for a cleaner New York. The DC 37 Education Fund (EdFund) manages training and workforce development on behalf of the union and has helped make it possible for thousands of DC 37 members to improve their foundational skills, technical competencies, and leadership capacity.    

 

“Green jobs are the wave of the future and DC 37 is proud to be part of the effort to end dirty buildings, reduce carbon emissions, and create good jobs," said Henry Garrido, Executive Director District Council 37, AFSCME. “It’s the right thing to do and we cannot expect anybody else to do this for us. New York City should be taking the lead – not just a stand – in climate justice.”

 

In August 2019, the DC 37 Education Fund was awarded grant funding from NYSERDA’s Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Training Fund. More than 75 percent of pollution in New York is generated by buildings, and this program will position public sector workers at the front lines to mitigate the impact of climate change as New York City prepares to implement the most progressive energy efficiency laws in the United States.

 

The membership of DC 37 covers more than 1,000 different job titles, including the City’s engineers, building inspectors, and facility managers. Through a partnership with the Association for Energy Affordability (AEA), Energy Economic Development Corporation (EEDC), and Envirolution One, DC 37 will create opportunities for industry-recognized credentials that will lead to advancement in multiple career sectors, including clean technology, building sciences, energy conservation and environmental engineering.

 

The DC 37 Green Jobs Training Initiative will consist of two-to-three 3-hour Zoom training sessions per week with a handful of sessions to take place physically at AEA’s training facility. Training will provide members with a foundation of the residential, multi-family and small commercial building energy efficiency upgrade process.  The courses will also speak to work on electrical systems, mechanical systems and operations and maintenance essentials.  The in-person training will take place in state of the art heating and cooling labs. Participants will be prepared for the Building Performance Institute (BPI) Multifamily Building Analyst certification and the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Auditor certification.

 

“The Energy Economic Development Corporation is excited to partner with District Council 37, the Association for Energy Affordability, and Envirolution One in support of NYSERDA-sponsored Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Training,” said James Hendon, Chief Executive Officer Energy Economic Development. “Founded on core values of transparency, tenacity, selflessness, and empowerment, Energy EDC is proud to actuate a shared vision with DC 37, AEA, and E1 of helping members and affiliates of DC 37 advance themselves in the energy efficiency sector. Our goal is to develop a blueprint through which DC 37 members and affiliates hone their skills in the clean technology space. This will, in turn, benefit graduates of the training program professionally, help government leaders lower building energy costs, and aid in meeting New York City’s carbon emissions reduction goals.”

 

“DC 37 is taking a proactive approach to developing and strengthening the capacity of public employees in New York to achieve City’s aggressive climate goals” said David Hepinstall, Executive Director of Association for Energy Affordability, Inc. “We are proud to partner with DC 37 and to contribute AEA’s expert training in building energy efficiency for all levels of workers and professionals, delivered through classroom and hands-on courses at our Energy Management Training Center.  This project will advance NYC climate and workforce development goals and will also benefit the health and safety of occupants and neighbors of buildings throughout the City.”

 

“Envirolution One is honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with industry leaders such as the Energy Economic Development Corp and the Association of Energy Affordability to support DC-37 in meeting this challenge and building the foundation and the road-map for training the public sector clean energy workforce that will help drive the City's transition into a clean energy, low-carbon and sustainable future” said Antuan Cannon Co-Founder & CEO of Envirolution.

 

DC 37 remains committed to providing essential education benefits to all members. The union plans to do this in collaboration with professional partners and networks, which is just one way to prepare a 21st century clean energy efficiency workforce. The union’s members are responsible for keeping New York City safe, educated, healthy, and working, which requires a continuously evolving skillset and knowledge base in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

 

Socialist In Office Statement in Support of the Impeachment of Governor Cuomo

 

Six Socialist State Legislators Support Governor Cuomo's Impeachment

 In light of the recent accounts of sexual harassment against Governor Cuomo, State Senator Julia Salazar, State Senator Jabari Brisport, Assembly Member Emily Gallagher, Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest, Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani, and Assembly Member Marcela Mitaynes issued the following statement:

“The accounts of sexual harassment from the women who have courageously come forward confirm what many in Albany have known for years: that Governor Cuomo uses his power to belittle, bully and harass his employees and colleagues. The accounts add to recent revelations of gross misconduct. It is time for the legislature to demand accountability. Impeachment proceedings are the appropriate avenue for us to pursue as legislators to hold the Governor accountable forhis many abuses of power and remove him from office.

These accounts of predatory behavior come just weeks after Governor Cuomo’s administration admitted to withholding critical information, including the thousands of COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes, from the public and from the federal government. That act alone on the part of the Governor was sufficient to justify impeachment proceedings. Governor Cuomo has repeatedly abused his powers and yet has faced no accountability. We must utilize every mechanism to lead aprocess commensurate with the severity of the governor’s multiple abuses of power.

We stand in solidarity with anyone who is a survivor of harassment, assault, or abuse. As socialists and as elected representatives, we must demonstrate solidarity in this moment and ensure Governor Cuomo cannot simply walk away from these accusations.”

Assemblymember Victor M. Pichardo Calls for Governor Andrew Cuomo to Resign Following Third Sexual Harassment Allegation

 

"As elected officials, particularly cisgender men and people in power, we need to make it a point to be better allies. This repeated behavior shown by Governor Cuomo is abhorrent and inexcusable." said Assemblymember Victor M. Pichardo.

"Those of us who hold positions in public government are given a responsibility to serve as examples to the communities we represent. At this point, I see no way the Governor can live up to that responsibility."

"For the good of New York State, he should step down immediately."

"To the three women who came forward, Lindsey Boylan, Charlotte Bennett, and Anna Ruch: we see you, we hear you, and we believe you. We need to do better."

 

----

 

Please, if you are a victim of sexual harassment in ANY workplace, you are not alone. Resources for sexual assault & harrasment: 

• The New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline - 1-800-942-6906
• Safe Horizon - 1-800-621-HOPE (4673)
• NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault - 212-514-SAFE (7233)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

305 Days and Counting

 

One Strike, Two Strikes, now Three Strikes, You are out Andrew Cuomo. 

Third Woman Comes Forward to Accuse Governor Cuomo of Improper Behavior

 

Good-Bye Andrew Cuomo

Hello Governor Kathleen C. Hochul

Attorney General James Receives Referral Letter to Investigate Allegations of Sexual Harassment Against Governor Cuomo

 

New York Attorney General Letitia James today released the following statement after the executive chamber issued a referral letter granting her request to investigate allegations of sexual harassment against Governor Andrew Cuomo:

“Today, the executive chamber transmitted a referral letter to our office, providing us the authority to move forward with an independent investigation into allegations of sexual harassment claims made against Governor Cuomo. This is not a responsibility we take lightly as allegations of sexual harassment should always be taken seriously. As the letter states, at the close of the review, the findings will be disclosed in a public report.”

Yesterday, Attorney General James announced she would appoint a special deputy to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations against Governor Cuomo.

Below, is text of the letter linked above:

Dear Attorney General James,

The Governor is hereby making a referral pursuant to Executive Law Section §63 (8) for you to select an independent law firm to conduct an inquiry into allegations of and circumstances surrounding sexual harassment claims made against the Governor.

As provided in Executive Law §63 (8), that private attorney or private attorneys, may be designated as Special Deputy Attorney General or Assistant Deputy Attorney General, to conduct the review.

Nothing in this letter is intended to constrain or limit any of the powers inherent in Executive Law §63 (8). Due to the nature of this review, however, the weekly reports contemplated by Executive Law §63 (8) will not be approved by or transmitted to the Executive. At the close of the review, the findings will be disclosed in a public report.

All New York State employees have been directed to cooperate fully with this review. I will serve as point of contact for any witness interviews or document production for the Executive Chamber and will connect you with appropriate counsel in any other agency or entity for any documents or witnesses necessary for the review.

                          Sincerely,

                          Beth Garvey

                          Special Counsel and Senior Advisor