Parsing the Digital Biosecurity Landscape

Abstract

Human genomic data along with health and medical records are key assets in driving precision medicine treatments, so these datasets are of extremely [End Page 166] high value—theft and hacking are already prevalent in this sector.3 Additionally, access to human genomic data could enable physical harms to someone based on known genomic vulnerabilities, and tampering with human health data could lead to harmful medical outcomes.4 Biodata associated with biotechnological manufacturing is a primary driver of the bioeconomy and as such represents a strategic asset for its growth, along with software tools and algorithms to engineer biodata. [...]as fundamental biological research and biotechnological manufacturing becomes increasingly automated, cyber systems are operating machinery or other systems which generate or control biological processes. Global Competition for Digital Biological Assets As countries around the world create strategies for growing their own bioeconomies, the value and pursuit of biodata is growing.5 The People's Republic of China (PRC), in particular, has aggressively advanced the country's biotechnology sector—in part due to unmet health care needs and a growing aging population—but also because China wants to lead the world in biotech.6 The PRC's national strategy "Made in China 2025" prioritizes investments in life science research parks throughout China and workforce talent programs.7 Central to this effort is the acquisition of biodata and DNA sequencing capabilities, both of which have been aided by the long-held US commitment to open international data sharing.8 This openness is not reciprocated by China and a growing list of other nations.9 The PRC's more organized effort to bolster its own biotech industry includes acquisitions of genetic data and American companies and startups.10 Furthermore, China and other actors have demonstrated a willingness to utilize illicit methods of gaining an advantage in biotech. In addition to data hacking and theft of genetic data, health and medical records, and farm agriculture data, Chinese approaches have also included infiltration of the US research and development enterprise to maximize their talent base and gain intellectual property or trade secrets—whether through digital intrusion or other means.11 While most of these actions have been considered acts of research misconduct, they undermine the competitiveness of the US bioeconomy and could compromise the United States' lead in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and other sectors.