Page 28 - Cyber Warnings

To keep pace with the rapidly changing cyber threat landscape, things must change! An event
looms in the horizon that is likely to become the catalyst behind the change. The dirty little
secret that no one talks about will likely be that catalyst.

When a cyberattack occurs and it results in the death or deaths of individuals and that
information becomes public, the outcry and demand for change will become so substantial, the
industry will have no choice.

There have been rumors and unsubstantiated and unconfirmed reports of this taking place
periodically for years. Once confirmed, cybersecurity will become baked-in to every product that
connects to the Internet that has a sensitive function or produces data that is relied upon for
sensitive systems.

One has to wonder if charges of manslaughter will be brought against cybersecurity
professionals and or system owner operators when such an occurrence takes place.

The Law Dictionary defines manslaughter as the “unlawful killing of a human creature without
malice, either express or implied, and without any mixture of deliberation whatever; which may
be voluntary, upon a sudden heat of passion, or involuntary, in the commission of an unlawful
act, or a lawful act without due caution and circumspection.”

Or perhaps this will drive the creation of a new term specifically created for cybersecurity lapses
that result in the death or deaths of individuals. Even if that does not occur, we have the civil
proceeding that is becoming a much more common occurrence when it comes to cyber events.

We must not forget, if it does occur, there is little doubt that the government will get their share
of the blame as well. All in all, a gloomy vision of what is likely to come.

About the Author

Kevin Coleman is a seasoned technology professional with a
comprehensive background in emerging technology strategy and
cyber security. He is a recognized subject matter expert on the issues
and opportunities created by technology.

His work in cyber includes speaking at the United Nations, before
members of Congress, at U.S. Strategic Command and lecturing at
the Army War College, Air Force Institute of Technology and the Navy
postgraduate program.

He is also well known for his keynotes for corporate events and webinars.

28 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – April 2017 Edition
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