The Pentagon announced a new strategy for fending off attacks from foreign states on computer systems. No real shocking news for people who have been following this issue.
The defence department’s new strategy relies on deploying sensors, software and code to detect and stop intrusions before they affect operations. “If an attack will not have its intended effect, those who wish us harm will have less reason to target us through cyberspace in the first place,” Lynn said. “Current countermeasures have not stopped this outflow of sensitive information. We need to do more to guard our digital storehouses of design innovation.”
Cartwright suggested that stronger deterrents would be needed. “We are supposed to be offshore convincing people if they attack, it won’t be free,” he said, adding that adversaries should know that the US has “the capability and capacity to do something about it”.
We talked to Noah Schactman from Wired yesterday who said the strategy and announcement were notable for their lack of saber rattling, taking a more cautious and measured approach.
At the same conference, the Pentagon said 24,000 military files were stolen in a single attack against a contractor in March. Small potatoes compared to the ongoing daily theft that’s happening but notable for the plunder of a single attack.
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