Friday Forum: Mickey Mouse & the Measles

The above headlines represent the growing concern over the recent measles outbreak in the United States.  Based on the headlines above, brainstorm at least five questions you have about this topic.


9 Things Everyone Should Know About Measles

Ebola was Only a Warmup: The Measles Outbreak is for Real

Parents who oppose measles vaccine, hold firm to their beliefs

Mom: Family that refused vaccination put my baby in quarantine

The Costs of Cyber Crime

Cyber crime is one of the fastest growing criminal activities, and one of its most costliest. Today, we are going to look at the escalating financial harm caused by cyber crime, including the categories of theft and what countries suffer the most.

To begin, answer these three questions (take a guess!):

1. How much do officials estimate cyber crimes to cost worldwide?

2. What three countries report the greatest financial loss due to cyber crimes?

3. Name three types of economic cyber crime.

4. What country is believed to be the worst perpetrator of cyber economic espionage?

Articles

Estimated Cost of Cyber Crimes Worldwide

US Government Going After Hackers

Cyber crimes

In addition to cyber warfare, another 21st century concern is cyber crime. Millions of people have already been affected by stolen data including Social Security numbers, credit card information, and bank account information. This growing field of criminal behavior is difficult to trace and transcends national boundaries, making law enforcement difficult.

What happens when you swipe your card?

One of the more well publicized cyber crimes involved the theft of credit card data from Target. Read about it here: Target breach shows you can be a victim of cybercrime at a brick and mortar store.

Presidential Power & Cyber Military Power

As the US builds up its cyber military capabilities, there are several questions about its use. First, what limitations are there on presidential power and use of cyber attacks? Should the US use the cyber military for defensive or offensive attacks?

Broad Powers Seen for Obama in Cyber Attacks

The Dangers of Obama's Cyber War Power Grab

Pentagon Goes on the Offensive Against Cyberattacks

Read the above articles and come up with several discussion questions for each article.

Friday Forum: American Sniper--Hero or Killer?

The movie American Sniper was released last week to record breaking ticket sales and critical acclaim. However, this Oscar nominated film has also raised some controversy over its portrayal of Chris Kyle, credited with the most sniper kills in US military history, as an American hero. Critics contend that it glorifies killing and is equivalent to American war propaganda.

American Sniper: Was Chris Kyle really a hero?