When we think of terrorist attacks, the first images that come to mind are the obvious ones: bombings, planes flying into buildings.
But it has been sobering in recent years to realize that the nation’s computerized networks, controlling such disparate functions as the electrical grid and weapons systems, also are increasingly under attack.
Last year, the Defense Department counted 360 million efforts to infiltrate its networks, believed to be primarily from Russia and China. In 2006, that number was just 6 million.
That’s why we were glad to see President Obama announce Friday the creation of a high-level cybersecurity adviser who will oversee the security of government and private business computer networks.
Protecting the nation’s information infrastructure is an important responsibility that must be tended to with diligence. We were glad, too, to hear the president express assurances that the new cybersecurity coordinator would not violate the privacy and civil liberties of Americans.
“Our pursuit of cybersecurity will not include — I repeat, will not include — monitoring private sector networks or Internet traffic,” he said.
It is a promise that Americans must hold him to.
The previous administration gave Americans reason to be skeptical, as reports surfaced that it abused Patriot Act powers by scooping up computer, telephone and bank records without court order or subpoena.
Privacy concerns notwithstanding, it is clear that there is a need to develop a coherent and sophisticated cybersecurity system.
The Wall Street Journal reported last month that the Pentagon would create a military cybersecurity operation that will deal with attacks on Defense Department networks and provide support to civilian operations.
Obama did not address the military effort Friday, but other published reports said the command would train for digital war as well as offensive and defensive operations.
Cybersecurity is an important task from a financial standpoint as well. A presidential task force cited statistics showing losses from theft of data and other digital property totaled as much as $1 trillion.
Even as the president announced the cybersecurity effort Friday, critics asserted the position wouldn’t have enough power or reach to accomplish the task before it. As the president works on the details of this initiative, we hope to see a structure emerge that has sufficient authority, but also is subject to reasonable oversight.
The administration must secure the nation’s online infrastructure without compromising the privacy and freedom of those who use it.
