Countries Shore Up Digital Defenses as Global Tensions Raise Cyberwarfare Threat
Last spring, hackers linked to Russia's government launched a cyberattack against municipal water plants in rural Texas. The attack was designed to test the vulnerabilities of America's public infrastructure and serve as a warning: In the 21st century, it takes more than oceans and an army to keep the United States safe.
A year later, countries around the world are preparing for greater digital conflict as increasing global tensions and a looming trade war have raised the stakes — and the chances that a cyberattack could cause significant economic damage, disrupt vital public systems, reveal sensitive business or government secrets, or even escalate into military confrontation.
The confluence of events has national security and cyber experts warning of heightened cyberthreats and a growing digital arms race as countries look to defend themselves. At the same time, President Donald Trump has upended America's digital defenses by firing the four-star general who led the National Security Agency, shrinking cybersecurity agencies and slashing election cybersecurity initiatives.
National Security Experts Warn of Heightened Cyberthreats
Businesses now are increasingly concerned about cyberattacks, and governments have moved to a war footing, according to a report this month by NukuDo, a cybersecurity training company. Federal estimates say the cybersecurity industry needs to hire an additional 500,000 professionals to meet the challenge.
Experts agree that companies need effective guidance from the government — a playbook — on how to bolster defenses and stay safe in the digital age. "What to do, what not to do" is a pressing question that requires clear leadership and direction from policymakers.
Global Cooperation on Cybersecurity
Despite shifting alliances, a growing consensus about cyberthreats could prompt greater global cooperation. More than 20 nations recently signed on to an international framework on the use of commercial spyware. The U.S. has signaled it will join the nonbinding agreement.
The development is seen as a positive step towards improving cybersecurity efforts and protecting the American people from foreign adversaries, cybercriminals, and other emerging threats.
Cybersecurity Efforts Under Trump
Trump's changes to the agencies that protect American interests in cyberspace have raised concerns about the effectiveness of cybersecurity efforts. The administration has faced more questions over how seriously it takes cybersecurity after senior officials used the popular messaging app Signal to discuss sensitive information about upcoming military strikes in Yemen.
Gabbard later called the episode a mistake, but the incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in cybersecurity decision-making.
Conclusion
The cyberwarfare threat is real and growing, and countries around the world are taking steps to shore up their digital defenses. As global tensions rise, it's essential that policymakers prioritize cybersecurity and work towards greater international cooperation to protect the American people and the global community.