New DHS Agency Will Provide Needed Emphasis on Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is playing an increasingly greater role in our government and economy. As our world becomes more interconnected, the cyberthreat landscape is growing and rapidly evolving. To address both physical threats and cyberthreats, the leading federal agency must have the flexibility and resources to quickly mitigate any potential interruptions or harm.

Last week, a critical step was taken in how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) manages cybersecurity. The long-awaited Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Act was signed into law by the president, reorganizing the former National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) into CISA. The permanent establishment of a stand-alone federal agency equipped to deal with cyberthreats is long overdue and welcome among the cybersecurity community.

CISA will be its own department within DHS, similar to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and will be led by cybersecurity expert, NPPD Under Secretary Christopher C. Krebs, who has had a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors. Establishing CISA as a stand-alone agency within DHS elevates both the mission of cybersecurity in the federal government and cybersecurity’s importance and solidifies the position of cybersecurity in our economy.

This is a smart decision on the part of Congress and the White House. It will help the newly created agency outline its priorities, advocate for a separate budget, and further develop recruitment efforts. CISA’s leaders will have the ability to continue to drive a culture of cybersecurity within our federal agencies and workforce while enhancing their capabilities to partner with the private sector to address our nation’s most critical cybersecurity threats.

McAfee looks forward to continuing to work with Christopher C. Krebs and his able team, led by CISA Assistant Director for Cybersecurity Jeanette Manfra.