Proclamation 9335-National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, 2015
Issued 2015-09-30 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation in September 2015 to designate October 2015 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The proclamation recognizes the growing importance of protecting America's digital infrastructure—including financial systems, the power grid, and health systems—from cyber threats. It highlights the administration's ongoing work with both government and private sector partners to address cybersecurity as a matter of public safety, economic security, and national security.
The proclamation calls on all Americans to take personal responsibility for cybersecurity by choosing stronger passwords, updating software, and practicing responsible online behavior. It promotes the Department of Homeland Security's "Stop.Think.Connect." campaign, which provides tools and information to help citizens protect themselves against cyber threats. The proclamation also references an executive order signed earlier that year to promote information sharing about cyber threats between government and the private sector, along with a Cybersecurity Framework to help organizations identify and respond to cybersecurity incidents.
This is a ceremonial proclamation that brings national attention to cybersecurity issues and encourages Americans to participate in awareness activities and training during the month of October. It does not create new laws or impose legal requirements on citizens, but rather serves as a presidential call to action for increased vigilance and education around digital security.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9335-National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to cybersecurity. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9335—National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, 2015 September 30, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation In our increasingly connected digital world, we have the power to innovate in unprecedented ways. With the advent of new and improved technologies, we must also keep pace with safeguarding our critical infrastructure networks that, although empowering, create previously unforeseen vulnerabilities. During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we recognize the importance of remaining vigilant against any and all cyber threats, while recommitting to ensuring our people can use new digital tools and resources fearlessly, skillfully, and responsibly. My Administration is working to keep our country's cyberspace safe and protected—both in the public and private sectors—and is dedicated to addressing this issue as a matter of not only public safety, but also economic and national security. Earlier this year, I signed an Executive Order to promote information sharing about cyber threats between Government and the private sector—because this is a shared mission, and all of us must work together to do what none of us can achieve alone. Additionally, as part of our c