Page 8 - Cyber Warnings

measures that will reduce the risk of cyber intrusions. Managing passwords, installing software
updates and not opening links and attachments contained in unrecognized or untrusted emails will
help us all move to a culture of cybersecurity. While basic measures of cyber hygiene alone will not
solve the entire cybersecurity challenge, implementation of such measures will raise the bar of
protection and contribute to improved security and resilience.

In addition, continuing the examination of the economics of cybersecurity is a key topic that remains
relevant and important. Two white papers prepared by the AFCEA Cyber Committee explain the
factors influencing cybersecurity investment across different threat levels:

The Economics of Cybersecurity: A Practical Framework for Cybersecurity Investment and

The Economics of Cybersecurity Part II: Extending the Cybersecurity Framework

Many consider cost to be a significant impediment to greater investment in cybersecurity. A
thorough and comprehensive examination of these matters including economic incentives as
previously referenced by the Administration is an important public policy discussion. In August,
2013, the White House Cybersecurity Coordinator published a blog identifying efforts to consider a
wide range of incentives.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/08/06/incentives-support-adoption-cybersecurity-framework

Since that time, little additional progress has been made around those discussions.

So as many celebrate the passage of cybersecurity information sharing legislation, we must
recognize that there remains much work to do. A number of common sense, pragmatic initiatives
that can make a significant difference in improving cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection
can and should be undertaken immediately.

Working together collaboratively with government, industry, and other stakeholders, we can truly
make a meaningful difference in efforts to make our nation more secure and resilient. Let’s get to
it…!

About the Author

Bob Dix is Juniper’s Vice President for Global Government Affairs and
Public Policy. He was Chair of the Partnership for Critical Infrastructure
Security from 2011–2014 and chaired the Information Technology Sector
Coordinating Council from 2008–2009. He has been an active industry leader in
efforts to improve cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection for more than
10 years. He served as Staff Director for the House Subcommittee on
Technology & Information Policy during the 108th Congress.

8 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – January 2016 Edition
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