October 17, 2012

Should Industry Face More Cybersecurity Mandates?

Introduction

Mark J. Terrill/Associated Press Security analysts at work in a cyber defense lab in Idaho.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has warned that the United States faces a possible “cyber-Pearl Harbor” attack by foreign computer hackers who could dismantle the nation’s power grid, transportation system, financial networks and government. But in August, Senate Republicans, siding with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce blocked legislation that would have required new standards at critical private-sector facilities, saying such rules would be too burdensome for businesses.

Is the threat of cyber attacks on crucial industries as serious as Secretary Panetta has said? If so, are businesses investing enough to protect themselves, or should they be required to do more?

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