Cyber-attacks on US grow, experts say

A panel of government experts once again warned lawmakers that cyber-attacks against the nation’s computer networks are growing more frequent and increasingly sophisticated, while the U.S. has lagged behind on implementing the necessary protections.

The House Commerce Committee's subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held the first in a series of hearings on cybersecurity and securing the nation’s critical infrastructure featuring two representatives from the Department of Homeland Security’s cyberdivision. In their opening statements, Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Subcommittee Chairman Cliff Stearns (R-FL) both argued that the committee should play a significant role in the upcoming debate over comprehensive cybersecurity legislation.

“In the face of cyberthreats that are both more frequent and more sophisticated, this committee is well-positioned to play an important role in any comprehensive cybersecurity legislation that moves through the House,” Chairman Upton said.

A turf battle between two Senate committees -- Commerce vs Homeland Security -- delayed comprehensive cybersecurity legislation in the upper chamber for the better part of a year. Both committees sought jurisdiction over federal cybersecurity standards for private networks deemed critical infrastructure.
Gregory Wilshusen, director of information technology for the Government Accountability Office, told lawmakers the Administration has implemented only two of 24 recommendations generated by the president’s cyberspace policy review to improve security. Officials told the GAO that progress has been slower than expected because agencies lack cybersecurity officials with defined roles and responsibilities, Wilshusen said in his opening statement. He added that the DHS team in charge of responding to attacks must improve its analysis and warning capabilities. “In summary, the threats to information systems are evolving and growing, and systems supporting our nation’s critical infrastructure are not sufficiently protected to consistently thwart the threats.” Wilshusen said.