Threats to national security originally arose from conventional warfare.
Then, they expanded to include nuclear weapons.
In the past few years, cyber attacks have emerged as a new kind of challenge.
While fighter jets and nuclear missiles require the capabilities of nation-states to develop and deploy, just about anyone can create a cyber weapon on their computer.
There are five kinds of cyber threats that could have serious national consequences. The first is the theft of intellectual property from American businesses that could deteriorate our economic competitiveness.
A second concern is a cyber attack that could massively disrupt everyday life. Shutting down power grids or the banking system would cause national emergencies that could take months or longer to repair.
Third, cyber attacks can inflame social unrest by spreading false information through social media and turning people against each other.
Fourth, spies can use cyber attacks to steal classified secrets about the weapons and intelligence operations that keep Americans safe.
Lastly, there are cyber attacks that could reduce or destroy our military’s capabilities. America relies on deterrence to prevent enemies from attacking our interests. Degrading that capability would significantly reduce the consequences for the perpetrators of bad actions.
Understanding the nature of cyber attacks will help us prevent and defend against them.
