New law to strengthen international cooperation on cyber security

On June 7, Senators Gary Peters, a Democrat of Michigan, and James Lankford, a Republican of Oklahoma, introduced a bipartisan bill to improve the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) ability to work with partners conferences on cyber security issues. This move was born out of a common goal of creating a stronger cyber security network that can effectively address growing global risks.

Accelerate the authorization process and support in times of crisis

The law, titled "The DHS International Cyber Partner Act," has as its main objective the acceleration of the authorization process for CISA to work with foreign allies. It also aims to provide support in times of crisis. "Cyber attacks against networks around the world can impact the global economy and even cause disruption in our country. For this reason, the United States must ensure that our international partners have the capacity to strike back and prevent breaches," Senator Peters said.

Expert support and collaboration with international partners

Specifically, the law would allow CISA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to designate personnel in overseas positions to provide technical expertise to foreign allies. It would also allow CISA to include international partners in cyber security programs that protect critical US infrastructure. Senator Lankford said, "Cyber threats are global threats, and they require global collaboration with our allies to protect Americans from international cyber threats."

Response to growing threats of foreign cyberattacks

The law was proposed in response to the growing number of cyberattacks resulting from foreign conflicts, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has followed a wave of Russian-origin cyberattacks against American infrastructure. "This bipartisan bill will enhance our cybersecurity cooperation with international allies and partners to mitigate cybersecurity threats," Senator Peters said.