Cyber-security Regulation - Pro-regulation Opinions

Pro-regulation Opinions

While experts agree that cyber-security improvements are necessary, there is disagreement about whether the solution is more government regulation or more private-sector innovation. Many government officials and cyber-security experts believe that the private-sector has failed to solve the cyber-security problem and that regulation is needed. Richard Clarke states that, “Industry only responds when you threaten regulation. If industry doesn’t respond, you have to follow through.” He believes that software companies must be forced to produce more secure programs. Bruce Schneier also supports regulation that encourages software companies to write more secure code through economic incentives. U. S. Rep. Rick Boucher (D-VA) proposes improving cyber-security by making software companies liable for security flaws in their code. In addition, to improving software security, Clarke believes that certain industries, such as utilities and ISPs, require regulation.