In light of the cyberattack that blocked access to more than 1,200 websites earlier this month, many are wondering how the nation can increase its cybersecurity; however, others worry that current proposals will lead to government overreach, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Here's what you need to know:
1. At present, the Pentagon has a Cyber Command; however, a U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson said the Pentagon does not involve itself in responses to cyberattacks unless it impacts national security or core interests, like economy, foreign relations or public health, according to the Wall Street Journal.
2. Retired Adm. James Stavridis, a former supreme allied commander of NATO, told the Wall Street Journal that the Pentagon's Cyber command is made up of members from other military branches. He suggests creating a specialized "cyber force" to respond to cyberattacks levied against U.S. citizens, government, military, companies and infrastructure.
3. A proposed rule will allow U.S. domestic law enforcement agencies to block or disable the computers of those suspected of cyberattack involvement, should they be issued a warrant from a judge. This proposal, known as Rule 41 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, is slated to go into effect Dec. 1, 2016, unless Congress blocks it.
4. Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) has suggested that the Federal Communications Commission inspect internet-connected products for security function. However, this policy would only apply to newly released products made in the United States.
5. Jeremiah Grossman, chief of security strategy at Palo Alto, Calif.-based Sentinel One, has suggested that the manufacturers of internet-connected devices should be liable for damage resulting from a product's security issues.