New cybersecurity firm formed

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WASHINGTON, March 6 (UPI) -- A consulting firm for business and the government sectors is being formed by former U.S. government cybersecurity experts.

The strategic and advisory services organization will be called by Ridge Schmidt Cyber LLC after founders: Tom Ridge, the first U.S. secretary of Homeland Security, and Howard A. Schmidt, former cybersecurity adviser to U.S. President Barack Obama and President George W. Bush.

"Many corporate leaders want to be better prepared for the challenges of cyberspace," said Ridge, who along with Schmidt will serve as partner of Ridge Schmidt Cyber.

"Cyberattacks and cybercrime have a real -- not virtual -- impact on operations and the bottom line.

"The effects are as far reaching, disruptive and consequential as physical attacks, and can make or break organizations that are not sufficiently prepared."

Added Schmidt: "Chief executive officers who are engaged on matters of cybersecurity put their companies at a competitive advantage.

"Our goal is to help leaders improve their cyber-resiliency so attacks don't impact their systems or their market positions."

Company services will include the design of cybersecurity strategy and architecture, development of policies and procedures.