The Mouse That Roared

Computer networks could become new battlegrounds for countries that don’t trust one another. Governments, businesses, universities, public utilities rely on computer systems for organization, information, research and trade. Advanced economies rely on the internet, and security specialists constantly look out for thefts, spy operations or disruptions. The UK, the US, Estonia, China, Germany have reported recent attacks or attempts, and the US Pentagon accused China of exploring the use of offensive cyber-tactics. But governments can spur attacks, intentionally or unintentionally, by stirring nationalism and anger and directing citizens to overwhelm another nation’s system. The legal system has been slow to adapt to many cyber concerns, reports this article in the Economist. The Council of Europe’s Convention on Cybercrime “requires members to pass appropriate laws against cybercrime,” to prevent unauthorized access and disruptions, money laundering, child pornography and the creation of “cybercrime havens.” The convention has only a handful of members for now, but anticipates more interest if hackers successfully shut down a big system for any length of time. – YaleGlobal