The US Government Is Asking Big Tech to Promise Better Cybersecurity
May 2, 2024
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US government urges tech companies to enhance cybersecurity through a pledge, with focuses on reducing default passwords and improving vulnerability disclosures. The challenges in obtaining commitments from tech firms and the shift towards broader progress measurement are discussed, highlighting the importance of corporate responsibility in cybersecurity.
Tech companies asked to sign a pledge for improved security practices including reduced default passwords.
Companies urged to enhance cyber defenses through multi-factor authentication and vulnerability disclosures.
Deep dives
US Government Seeks Tech Giants' Commitment to Cybersecurity
The Biden administration is urging major technology companies to enhance the cybersecurity of their software and cloud services. Through a voluntary pledge introduced by the Department of Homeland Security's CISA, companies are encouraged to prioritize cybersecurity by implementing seven key improvements. These include soliciting vulnerability reports, expanding multi-factor authentication usage, and eliminating default passwords. The reaction of tech industry giants to this pledge will reveal the private sector's stance on increased investment in cybersecurity.
CISA Promotes Enhanced Security Measures Through Pledge Commitments
The pledge aims to bolster companies' cyber defenses by increasing multi-factor authentication usage, improving software patching processes, and establishing vulnerability disclosure programs. It emphasizes the significance of companies publicly demonstrating progress on these goals and sharing their techniques for others to learn. The pledge's development involved input from tech companies to ensure feasibility across businesses of all sizes, indicating a collective effort in boosting cybersecurity measures.
The Efficacy and Accountability of the Cybersecurity Pledge
While companies remain cautious about legal liabilities and the impact of public statements on potential security incidents, the pledge signifies a shift towards corporate responsibility in cybersecurity. Though the pledge's effectiveness is yet to be fully proven, government officials expect customer demand for secure products to be a driving force in ensuring companies fulfill their commitments. The pledge serves as a concrete manifestation of extensive guidance aimed at aligning industry practices with enhanced cybersecurity standards.
The Biden administration is asking tech companies to sign a pledge, obtained by WIRED, to improve their digital security, including reduced default password use and improved vulnerability disclosures.