The US is not usually seen to be in a weak position globally – however, in cyberspace, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) thinks otherwise.
In a report published this week the GAO found that the US "will be at a disadvantage in promoting its national interests in the realm of cyberspace," until it deals head on with issues in leadership, strategy, coordination, standards, policies, and legal discrepancies – to name but a few.
Leadership for national Internet security is spread across local and state Government as well as the private sector. Various US agencies are involved including: the Departments of Commerce, Defence and Homeland Security. It is not really a wonder that the rest of the world is unable to see a coherent national approach from the US that they can be confident in.
Standardisation is crucial, said the GAO in its latest report, for the US to show it has a handle on the issue.
Opponents to a proposed bill reforming cyber security in the US are calling it the ‘Kill Switch’ bill – worried over Presidential powers and Internet shut down.
It is no surprise then that reports indicate the US Congress being slow to pass a comprehensive law to challenge the problem – the opponents need reassurance. Unfortunately, until these issues are dealt with the US will be at a distinct disadvantage in cyberspace, and globally – an unusual phenomenon for this super power.
Check out the progress of the new law at US-Cybersecurity-bill
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Presidential powers to shut down Internet can only offer a temporary respite from a cyber-attack. The real issue is that of strengthening our defenses against such attacks. Cyber security reforms must focus on technological advancements, among others to counter any cyber-attack and to protect key installations in case of a cyber-war by a rival nation. Loopholes in the existing classified networks must be addressed to ensure information security and protect national interests.
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