Should the Pentagon Defend Non-Military Networks?
The Secretary of Defense is considering a proposal “that military cyber-specialists be given permission to take action outside its computer networks to defend critical U.S. computer systems.” The Washington Post reported that anonymous sources stated:
It would account for changes in technology that will give more flexibility in defending the nation from cyberattack.
Probably this military proposal is a direct result that the Senate filibuster killed a new cybersecurity bill in early August, 2012 that “…would have established optional standards for the computer systems that oversee the country’s critical infrastructure, like power grids, dams and transportation.”
Clearly the US needs cybersecurity and perhaps the Pentagon’s approach will make up for Congress’ failure to create new laws.
