CISPA: Security by Design

Earlier in the week the CTIA semi-annual survey was cited for the astounding 123 percent increase in data traffic on the nation’s wireless networks that underscore the significance of the Cyber Information Sharing and Protection Act (H.R. 3523).

On Tuesday, the House Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations and Management heard testimony as to the cyber threats facing our nation, and more importantly, the steps that Congress can take to improve cybersecurity and leverage the resources of the private sector in cooperation with government.

Stuart McClure, Executive Vice President and Worldwide CTO, McCafee Inc. testified that “The only way to definitively solve this problem – and it is solvable – is through security by design.”

The wireless industry has a wealth of expertise, existing technology and standards and resources that focus on cybersecurity “design” 24/7. The tools contained in CISPA promote a holistic technical “security by design” approach that the wireless industry and government can bring to bear on the challenge. Mobile devices, smartphones, tablets, etc. are quickly capturing cyber criminals’ attention, with instances of mobile malware increasing by 600% from 2010 to 2011.

Every day, consumers download applications from unknown applications stores without a second thought. CISPA enables a comprehensive cybersecurity regime permitting the private sector to leverage its cyber resources in a coordinated way with government entities through information sharing to protect consumers. Using positive incentives, such a liability protections, rather than negative ones, such as government mandates, CISPA will drive higher levels of trust and actual cooperation between the private sector and government – all vital to producing real success.

CISPA and a holistic approach to “security by design” will make our country more secure for future generations of mobile consumers.