Swalwell’s Cybersecurity Comedy: Punch Back or Keep Losing Your Lunch Money?
Rep. Eric Swalwell suggests deploying government contractors for offensive cybersecurity operations against foreign adversaries. This could deter countries like Russia from targeting critical infrastructure. While Republicans have floated the idea, Swalwell is one of the first Democrats to propose a private sector role in hacking back.
Hot Take:
Rep. Eric Swalwell is channeling his inner tech superhero, suggesting that government contractors should become the cyber Avengers, hacking back at foreign foes to keep America’s digital lunch money safe. Who knew the key to cybersecurity was in outsourcing the offense?
Key Points:
- Rep. Eric Swalwell suggests using private contractors for offensive cybersecurity operations.
- The idea stems from the federal government’s inability to protect all companies from cyberattacks.
- Swalwell is one of the first Democrats to publicly support this approach, previously championed by Republicans.
- Legal challenges remain as private firms consider the risks of collateral damage in cyber warfare.
- Cyber Command is already conducting “hunt forward” missions and plans to partner more with the private sector by 2025.
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