Cybersecurity needs complete plan

[Commentary] The Internet has nurtured a remarkable amount of innovation, commerce, freedom of expression and economic connectivity. But these great benefits are accompanied by an ever-growing number of serious cybersecurity threats. Resolving this crucial issue will enhance our effectiveness in combating cybersecurity threats. But it is merely one of many technical, legal, and political issues our nation faces in the cybersecurity realm. Six areas need particular attention.

• First, the public has little awareness about cyberthreats.
• Second, we need to improve the means for industry sectors to deploy common defense strategies — like the westward pioneers circling their wagons.
• Third, we need to provide end-users, ISPs and software and hardware suppliers with basic rules of the road.
• Fourth, we must provide the federal government adequate authority and capability to protect critical private infrastructure — including our financial, communications, transportation and energy sectors.
• Fifth, we must put more cybercriminals behind bars.
• Finally, we must more clearly define the rules of engagement for covert action against cyberthreats. The president must have access to as many lawful and appropriate tools as possible — subject to clear executive policies and procedures, as well as vigilant congressional oversight.

[Sen Whitehouse served as chairman of the bipartisan Cyber Task Force in 2010]