Proposed legislation would punish countries that don’t help the US stop cyber attacks

Senators Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), have introduced The International Cybercrime and Reporting Act, which would hold foreign nations accountable if they don’t help fight cybercrimes directed at the U.S.

From Hillicon Valley:

Under the bill, countries cited as cyber concerns would be eligible for U.S. assistance programs aimed at cybercrime, but a failure to respond to attacks could result in the U.S. withholding financing, foreign assistance or preferential trade status. The bill would also deploy cybercrime experts to U.S. embassies and make the issue a key consideration for the president before entering into trade agreements. The legislation is one of a number of cybersecurity bills currently in front of Congress; negotiations on comprehensive legislation are expected to pick up in earnest this fall.

In a press release, the Senators say that cybercrimes cost the US $4 billion in 2008.

It all sounds a little super-hero-y: You are with us or against us. And if you are against us, we will punish you.

Also, what if the cyber attacks are coming from the country itself? (See Biggest cyber-attack ever.)