**Cybersecurity Takes Backseat as Immigration Dominates Hearing on Global Threats**
Yesterday's hearing on worldwide threats targeting the U.S. before the House Homeland Security Committee was expected to delve into the nation's biggest cybersecurity challenges. However, the overwhelming focus remained on the Department of Homeland Security's handling of immigration enforcement.
The annual hearing, which also discussed terrorism, drones, and other matters concerning American security, featured testimony from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent, and FBI National Security Branch operations chief Michael Glasheen. While cyber threats were briefly touched upon, the majority of the discussion centered around immigration.
**Encrypted Messaging Apps Pose Threat to U.S. National Security**
Despite the limited focus on cybersecurity, witnesses did provide some insight into the biggest challenges facing the nation in this area. Director Kent highlighted the proliferation of encrypted messaging apps being used by terrorist proxy groups in the Middle East. These apps allow groups to reach contacts in the United States and coordinate attacks, as they mask communications by converting messages into a ciphered text that outside observers cannot interpret.
Kent's concerns are shared by cybersecurity experts who have long warned about the dangers of encrypted messaging apps. These platforms can be exploited by terrorist organizations to spread propaganda online and evade detection. The National Counterterrorism Center is working to monitor and disrupt these efforts, but more needs to be done to address this growing threat.
**China Remains Primary Cyber Threat to U.S.**
FBI Director Glasheen echoed years of assessments from former officials and cybersecurity companies when he stated that China continues to pose the most significant cyber threat to the United States. The ongoing efforts by Chinese hackers to compromise sensitive data and disrupt critical infrastructure are a major concern for national security.
Glasheen emphasized the importance of maintaining a bedrock cyber intelligence-sharing authority, which is currently under threat due to possible expiration next month. This authority allows for crucial data exchanges between government agencies and private sector companies, helping to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
**DHS Takes Steps to Protect Undersea Cabling**
When asked about the Department's approach to managing undersea cable security, Secretary Noem highlighted the involvement of multiple components within DHS. These include the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Coast Guard, which conduct surveillance to identify sabotage attempts on cabling systems.
Noem also revealed that the Office of Intelligence and Analysis assists with "covert operations" aimed at preventing hacking or sabotage efforts targeting critical infrastructure. The department is working closely with intelligence agencies to coordinate responses to these threats and ensure the continued operation of vital undersea cables.
**Immigration Dominates Hearing**
Despite the brief discussion on cyber threats, immigration dominated the rest of the hearing. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received a historic cash infusion this year as part of efforts to ramp up immigration raids and speed deportations. ICE is also tapping into a recruitment pipeline run by DHS to boost cybersecurity and tech talent.
The agency's reliance on these programs has raised concerns about the politicization of law enforcement and the potential for bias in hiring practices. As the nation grapples with its most pressing security challenges, it remains essential that all agencies prioritize transparency and accountability in their efforts to protect American citizens.