How the Biden Administration May Promote Cybersecurity
With increasing cyber threats, cybersecurity has become a top priority for governments worldwide. The Biden administration has shown a strong intent to tackle cybersecurity issues, particularly in the wake of recent cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure. In this article, we will examine how the Biden administration may promote cybersecurity.
Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity
In May 2021, President Biden signed an Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity, which aims to modernize the federal government’s approach to cybersecurity. The order requires federal agencies to implement multi-factor authentication and encryption for data at rest and in transit, among other cybersecurity measures. It also mandates that federal agencies report any cybersecurity incidents within a specific timeframe to improve the government’s response.
Strengthening Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure
The recent cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure have highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures. The Biden administration has proposed investments in cybersecurity to harden critical infrastructure systems against cyber threats. The administration is also working closely with the private sector to promote best practices and information sharing to prevent cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure.
Investments in Cybersecurity for Government and Private Sector
The Biden administration has proposed significant investments in cybersecurity for both the government and the private sector. The proposed budget for the fiscal year 2022 includes $9.8 billion for cybersecurity for the government agencies. It also proposes $20 billion to be invested in cybersecurity for the private sector, with an emphasis on small businesses.
Promoting International Cooperation on Cybersecurity
The interconnectedness of the global economy means that cybersecurity threats are not confined to one country. The Biden administration has pledged to promote international cooperation on cybersecurity issues, particularly with allies and partners. This approach includes promoting best practices, information sharing, and collaborating on cybersecurity incident response.
Conclusion
The Biden administration’s focus on improving cybersecurity is a step in the right direction. The Executive Order and proposed investments in cybersecurity will help bolster federal agencies’ cybersecurity posture and provide much-needed funding for the private sector to secure their systems. The emphasis on international cooperation is also a positive sign, as cyber threats are a global issue that requires a collaborative approach. Ultimately, the success of the Biden administration’s cybersecurity initiatives will depend on effective implementation and continued vigilance in the face of evolving cyber threats.
