Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem addressed cybersecurity professionals at the RSA Conference in San Francisco. She acknowledged criticism regarding reforms at CISA but encouraged patience and emphasized a stronger, more responsive agency. Noem described recent structural changes as part of a broader plan to restore CISA’s core mission. She claimed these reforms would enhance national cyber defense, despite media concerns.
CISA recently eliminated several advisory bodies and significantly cut staff. This included dissolving the Critical Infrastructure Partnership Advisory Council and pausing the Cyber Safety Review Board. These actions drew backlash from former officials and the cybersecurity community. Noem stated the government would now focus more directly on cybersecurity rather than policing online misinformation.
CISA has long faced criticism from GOP leaders, including Donald Trump, for its role in countering disinformation. Lawsuits claimed CISA’s past actions suppressed conservative viewpoints. Noem said Trump’s administration would narrow the agency’s focus and reduce its size. Future federal budgets would reflect these changes, with $10 million already cut from CISA’s programs.
CISA’s “Secure by Design” initiative may also face setbacks after key advisors resigned. Two cyber threat-hunting tools have been discontinued, and others are at risk. Controversy grew after an internal memo suggested CISA might exit the CVE Program. CISA reversed that decision under public pressure, agreeing to continue its support for nearly another year.
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