United States government cybersecurity policy: protecting critical infrastructures from malicious hacker attack methods and cyberwar

Abstract

This policy study analyzes and describes the environment and challenges related to United States cybersecurity policy. Chapter one provides an introduction to the study, including the methodology and a glossary of relevant terms. Chapter two provides background information about hackers and the hacker profession. Chapter three analyzes existing United States cybersecurity policy, including the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, the National Infrastructure Protection Plan, and the Cyberspace Policy Review. Chapter four offers policy recommendations and potential future scenarios based on expert analysis. Chapter five concludes the study with a discussion of limitations and areas for future research. Cyberspace was constructed with a foundation for reliable and convenient communication so that different entities could share information. It has evolved into a vast collection of insecure computer systems and networks that dictate the manner in which people communicate, are educated, conduct business, bank, shop, and seek entertainment. Due to the lack of effective oversight by the United States Government, cyber intruders have, with impunity, terrorized Cyberspace and threatened the critical infrastructures of the United States. The responsibility to establish a proactive, reliable, and highly resolved cybersecurity policy, which will protect the nation's critical infrastructures from probable cyber attack, should be at the forefront of United States government concern. Cybersecurity will not improve until the United States Government can develop and implement comprehensive cybersecurity policies to properly govern Cyberspace. Policy makers must comprehend and emphasize the importance of improving the United States' current stance on cybersecurity to ensure that the tranquility and liberties of the American people are preserved. Through research and expert analysis of the current threats to the critical infrastructures of the United States, this policy study offers recommendations that are to be considered as potential solutions to some of the major issues affecting cybersecurity policy and can thereby enhance our ability to protect the critical infrastructures of the United States.