Cyber Espionage

Cyber world is an invisible and soundless expanse of communication and control that extends its grip through the technology that created it. 

Finally, we launched Project Upskill, a program designed to empower vulnerable populations with straightforward guidance to strengthen their cybersecurity. Over the past year, we’ve taken this initiative nationwide, supporting regional events across the country to provide tailored support and deliver this critical guidance directly to at-risk communities.

In a world increasingly reliant on technology, each of us plays a vital role in strengthening cyber resilience. By taking proactive steps—like the four simple steps of cyber hygiene; by encouraging universities to consider starting cyber clinics; or supporting high-risk communities—we can all Secure Our World. 

Before graphical depictions of speech, writing, keeping information secret was a matter of trusting those to whom one spoke. Writing and printing leaves a tangible record that can be deciphered by any one, friend or foe, in the future. That's why important government documents are labelled "TOP SECRET". Ex US presidents are hassled for keeping confidential information in cardboard boxes in their laundry rooms. An unrecorded conversation between two spies is more secure than a folder with a red letter warning across the first page.

Now, although the US government works hard at gleaning the plans of potential adversaries by intercepting their digital communications, they are even more dedicated to keeping their own accumulated information out of the wrong hands. Since these pixels are roaming around the internet they are vulnerable to capture by dark forces. Cryptology, hiding and disguising digital information, is as big and lucrative a field as finding the information itself. Its results can't be guaranteed and enormous efforts are made to improve the techniques of interpreting digital signals.

Since no one can know if a record or message of critical importance can be safely hidden from the bad guys lurking on the world-wide web maybe it shouldn't be exposed to the possibility. Everyone seems to be in love with modern technology but every aspect of it should be evaluated in terms of how effective it is for its intended purpose and the negatives involved. Instead of sending an important message over the web it might be better for the sender to whisper it in the ear of a trusted aide for personal delivery. That was a common method in days gone by and seems to have worked well.