Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who represents the 21st Congressional District which includes St. Lawrence County, is a cosponsor of the Defend COVID Research from Hackers Act.

Her office says the legislation will “help protect American advancements toward the development of a COVID-19 vaccine from hackers and hold anyone who attempts to commit those cyber crimes accountable.”

The bill allows for the imposition of sanctions on certain foreign actors who have or attempt to threaten the national security, public health, or financial stability of the United States.

“China and other countries have attempted to illegally hack and access information regarding U.S. development of a COVID-19 vaccine,” said Congresswoman Stefanik.

“It is essential that we protect our nation’s researchers as they work tirelessly to develop a vaccine for the world. The United States refuses to be exploited by China, Russia, or any other hackers who attempt to manipulate this process. This legislation seeks to hold these criminals accountable, and I look forward to working with my House colleagues to further this effort.”