The Urgency of Implementing Cybersecurity Recommendations: A Call to Action

Government Solarium Commission wants action on stalled cybersecurity recommendations

Introduction

The Cyberspace Solarium Commission, an influential government commission, has expressed concern over the stalled implementation of key cybersecurity recommendations. Despite approximately 70% of the initial recommendations being implemented, the commission warns that further action is necessary to improve computer security in the face of widespread cyberattacks.

The Status of Recommendations

Since its release in 2020, the recommendations of the Solarium Commission have served as a roadmap for the Biden administration’s efforts to enhance cybersecurity. However, a recent report indicates that several critical recommendations have not yet been implemented. These recommendations include clarifying liability for federal cyber response efforts, modernizing campaign regulations to promote cybersecurity defenses, funding research and development centers for exploring cybersecurity insurance certificates, establishing congressional cybersecurity committees, and enacting a national breach notification law.

The commission’s report reveals that approximately 70% of the commission’s initial recommendations have been implemented or are close to being implemented. This is a testament to the influence of the report. However, the chairmen of the commission, Sen. Angus King and Rep. Mike Gallagher, stress the importance of maintaining momentum in improving computer security given the current landscape of cyberattacks.

The Need for Further Action

The report emphasizes that improved cybersecurity is crucial and that pausing in the pursuit of enhanced computer security is not an option. The commission’s recommendations have already led to significant policy changes, such as the creation of the National Cyber Director and the State Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy. However, the report argues that both the Biden administration and Congress need to take further steps to improve U.S. cybersecurity efforts.

The report identifies a total of 116 recommendations from the Solarium Commission, of which 42 are fully implemented, and 36 are nearing implementation. However, 26 recommendations are still on track to completion, while 11 show limited or delayed progress. The report highlights that the creation of a House Permanent Select and a Senate Select Committee on Cybersecurity is facing significant barriers to adoption, with ongoing pushback against their establishment. Nonetheless, draft legislative language exists in case a major cyberattack occurs that might help overcome these political barriers.

Privacy and Data Security

The Solarium Commission also recommended the passage of a national data security and privacy protection law. Although its future in Congress remains uncertain, the implementation report considers it to be on track, as several congressional committees have resumed discussions on federal privacy legislation.

Regarding the commission’s recommendation to establish a Bureau of Cyber Statistics, legislative language included in the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act could potentially revive this idea. The Defense Department would be required to conduct a study on establishing such an office. Additionally, the State Department’s new cyber bureau could take on efforts to develop cyber confidence-building measures and incorporate them into its forthcoming international cybersecurity strategy.

Conclusion: Urgent Action Needed

The report from the Cyberspace Solarium Commission serves as a reminder that urgent action is required to improve computer security in the face of increasing cyber threats. While progress has been made in implementing the commission’s recommendations, there is still work to be done. Political barriers and pushback continue to impede the establishment of congressional cybersecurity committees, but the potential for major cyberattacks may help overcome these obstacles.

Furthermore, the report highlights the need for a national data security and privacy protection law and emphasizes the importance of improving cyber capabilities by establishing a Bureau of Cyber Statistics. It also notes that executive actions and international cooperation can play a role in enhancing cybersecurity defenses.

Given the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats, it is crucial for the Biden administration and Congress to prioritize and expedite the implementation of the remaining recommendations. The security of critical infrastructure, government systems, and personal data depends on proactive measures, investments in research and development, and comprehensive policies that address the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

It is essential that the government, industry leaders, and citizens recognize the significance of cybersecurity and work together to mitigate risks, protect sensitive information, and enhance resilience. The call to action from the Cyberspace Solarium Commission should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize cybersecurity and ensure that the necessary measures are taken to strengthen our nation’s defenses in an increasingly digital world.