Cybersecurity: The Next Threat to National Security

Abstract

The United States lacks a comprehensive national strategy that effectively addresses cybersecurity. Cybersecurity can no longer be an esoteric concept understood by few; it must be addressed and understood by all public-private sectors and international activities. To meet this critical need, the United States must employ a dynamic decision-making process that utilizes Boyd's OODA Loop concept. Engaging this sound strategy would enable the United States to adapt to the unpredictable and rapidly changing cyber environment .The Information Age has given birth to a new cyber domain that has minimized essential barriers and increased cross-border partnerships while augmenting adversaries. Governments are responsible for protecting national security and public welfare. The nation will have to establish laws that address cyber-threats and hold persecutors of cyber attacks accountable; develop regulations requiring security in certain sectors; establish organizations and programs that help with cybersecurity; and allocate money for cyber-public awareness, defense research, and education. Although the Federal Government currently executes efforts toward developing cyberspace governance and security, these policies and initiatives are limited in delivering an effective national cybersecurity strategy. The United States has been successful at conducting cybersecurity at the tactical level; however, the Federal Government must focus on establishing a comprehensive strategy that clearly articulates roles and responsibilities of organizations, and effective timelines. The pervasive and rapidly evolving cyber threats must be countered with forward-thinking, adaptable solutions, and effective partnerships.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 29, 2011
Accession Number
ADA601238

Entities

People

  • Jonathan W. Sims

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Closed Loop Systems
  • Computer Network Security
  • Computer Networks
  • Cyber Threats
  • Cyberattacks
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cyberspace
  • Department Of State
  • Governments
  • Information Systems
  • Law
  • National Security
  • Network Protocols
  • Public Policy
  • United States
  • United States Government

Readers

  • Cybersecurity.
  • Government and Public Administration Law.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Cyber