Risks to the U.S. Infrastructure from Cyberspace

Testimony presented by Robert H. Anderson before the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Government Affairs Committee, U.S. Senate, June 25, 1996. The author raises two points regarding risks in cyberspace (the global collection of internetted computers and communications systems) and three issues for consideration. The first point is that the information revolution is continuing, bringing new security risks. To date the market has emphasized increased functionality, not security. The second point is that a continuing partnership between government and industry is needed to address vulnerabilities as they arise. The first issue for consideration is the advisability and feasibility of creating a Minimum Essential Information Infrastructure. Second, the U.S. should focus on increasing the robustness of U.S. infrastructure systems. Third, roles and missions among those responsible for security must be clarified and coordinated.