The White House is considering a new cybersecurity initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure. Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology, shared this plan during the Billington Cybersecurity Summit.
Furthermore, the proposed strategy involves implementing a letter-grade rating system, from A to D, to hold critical infrastructure providers accountable for maintaining robust cybersecurity. This approach seeks to prevent prolonged disruptions of essential services such as power, gas, and water supplies.
Simultaneously, the administration is working with the private sector to improve the security of smart home devices through the Cyber Trust Mark program.
Neuberger emphasized that while public-private partnerships are beneficial, additional enforcement capabilities are vital. The proposed rating system would enable regulators to assess and enforce cybersecurity standards rigorously.
By having critical infrastructure providers adhere to these standards, the administration aims to reduce vulnerabilities to cyberattacks.
Furthermore, the U.S. is expanding international efforts to counter ransomware, convening the International Counter Ransomware group in Washington with participation from 47 countries. The group is actively crafting a coordinated statement regarding ransomware payments to combat this growing threat. Additionally, the U.S. provided $25 million in digital infrastructure assistance to Costa Rica, which faced cyberattacks following its stance against Russia in the wake of the Ukraine invasion.
