The Private Sector: A Reluctant Partner in Cybersecurity

Abstract

Etzioni argues the need for US companies to protect its computers and networks from cyber-attacks by criminals and foreign agents given that much of the country's critical infrastructure depends on the private sector for its security. After all, hacking has caused considerable losses of trade secrets and other proprietary information. Moreover, evidence suggests that cyber-attacks can take a kinetic form, which can harm the equipment and facilities of those attacked. However, the private sector is far from rushing to protect itself from such attacks. The reasons for this reluctance range from the understandably pragmatic to the ideological.