U.S. Cybersecurity 'Hellscape' Warned by Sen. King Amidst Agency Staff Losses
The cybersecurity landscape in the U.S. has been described as a 'hellscape' by Sen. Angus King (I-ME), with increasing attacks against infrastructure and businesses. King's concerns come amidst reports of significant staff losses and leadership changes at key agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) and the State Department.
King highlighted the loss of 30% of CISA's staff and most of its seasoned leaders. He also pointed out the elimination of CISA's office for public-private partnerships and the empty international coordinator for cybersecurity position at the State Department as concerning developments. King argued that these cuts, along with job losses at the State Department and Justice Department, have weakened the nation's cybersecurity. King criticized the administration's lack of urgency and strategy in addressing these issues.
David Harvilicz, Assistant Secretary for Cyber, Infrastructure, Risk & Resilience Policy at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, pushed back on King's characterization of reckless cuts. Harvilicz argued that the administration has appointed 'world class executives' to lead cybersecurity efforts and that hiring more staff may not necessarily solve cybersecurity issues. Meanwhile, in Germany, Sinan Selen was appointed as the new cyber head in 2021, becoming the president of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.
The debate around U.S. cybersecurity highlights the growing concern over the nation's vulnerability to cyber attacks. While Sen. King sees the cuts as reckless, Harvilicz maintains that the administration is taking the issue seriously with strategic appointments. The appointment of Sinan Selen in Germany underscores the global importance of robust cybersecurity leadership.
