President Biden’s security strategy hinges on investing in and defining standards for critical sectors, “advancing foundational cybersecurity,” and collaborating with the private sector to improve the security of technological products. Ultimately, this will bolster the country’s defenses against ransomware attacks, comply with modern international cybersecurity norms, increase Internet of Things (IoT) safety, and support cybersecurity education. “As an open society, the United States has a clear interest in strengthening norms that mitigate cyber threats and enhance stability in cyberspace. We aim to deter cyber attacks from state and non-state actors and will respond decisively with all appropriate tools of national power to hostile acts in cyberspace,” the White House said.
Quantum-Resistant Encryption
The White House presented its National Security Strategy just a day after publishing a fact sheet highlighting the Biden administration’s work to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity. One of the key points in the fact sheet is the importance of investing in developing quantum-resistant cryptography. The rapid advancements in quantum technology may render standard encryption standards obsolete soon. The White House highlighted the value of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) new encryption standard, which is expected to be completed in about two years. “These algorithms are the first group of encryption tools that are designed to withstand the assault of a future quantum computer,” the statement said.
Defending Against Ransomware Attacks
The White House touched on the importance of the International Counter-Ransomware Initiative (CRI). This initiative brings together international public and private partners to combat ransomware. “This group has raised collective resilience, engaged the private sector, and disrupted criminal actors and their infrastructure,” the statement said. Meanwhile, there are plans to establish a NATO “virtual rapid response mechanism” to ensure America and its allies can support each other in dealing with cyber incidents.
New Label for IoT Devices
Internet of Things (IoT) devices are a growing cybersecurity concern. To deal with potential threats, the White House announced plans to create a label for IoT devices that will allow users to identify which devices meet the “highest cybersecurity standards.” There will be a meeting between public and private stakeholders later this month to discuss the proposed label for IoT devices. “By developing and rolling out a common label for products that meet by U.S. Government standards and are tested and vetted and approved entities, we will help American consumers easily identify secure tech to bring into their homes,” the statement said. The group will also look at other at-risk technologies like routers and home surveillance systems. It is unclear when this label will be rolled out. You can learn more about the White House’s work to strengthen America’s cybersecurity here.
