When Anne Neuberger took on the role of deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology within the White House’s National Security Council at the start of the Biden administration, her extensive background as a seasoned cybersecurity expert from her decade-long tenure at the National Security Agency proved invaluable. Holding various critical positions such as the inaugural chief risk officer, assistant deputy director of operations, and head of the cybersecurity directorate, Neuberger was well-prepared for the responsibilities that came with her new position. Following her appointment, the Colonial Pipeline ransomware incident in May 2021 significantly influenced the government’s focus on combatting cybercriminal activities. Throughout the past three years, Neuberger’s office at the National Security Council has been instrumental in driving key initiatives, including pivotal executive orders on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence issued by the Biden administration.
In preparation for her involvement in the Munich Security Conference, Neuberger engaged in a discussion with WIRED, shedding light on the prevailing technology issues that currently dominate her agenda. These topics ranged from addressing the connectivity needs of John Deere tractors to the evolving national security challenges posed by traffic cameras post-Hamas’ attack in Israel. Neuberger also explored the security implications of software updates for autonomous vehicles, the escalating risks associated with artificial intelligence, the promotion of quantum-resistant cryptography, and the ongoing fight against ransomware attacks. While the interview was condensed for clarity and brevity, it underscored the critical focal points within her domain.
Neuberger emphasized three key areas that have exhibited significant progress and alleviated prior concerns. Firstly, the government’s strategy for enhancing cybersecurity in critical infrastructure underwent a fundamental transformation following the Colonial Pipeline cyber breach. By expanding existing safety regulations to encompass cybersecurity protocols, regulators gained the mandate to enforce essential enhancements across sectors like pipelines, airports, and energy systems. This proactive approach has led to substantial advancements in fortifying the nation’s overall cybersecurity resilience.
Secondly, endeavors to combat money laundering via cryptocurrencies have heightened, particularly in thwarting illicit activities driven by ransomware attacks and state-backed cyber campaigns. The establishment of a specialized cryptocurrency task force at the FBI, coupled with collaborative efforts with global allies, has notably improved the capacity to trace and disrupt unlawful financial transactions. This collaborative strategy underscores a united global endeavor to tackle the financial foundations of cyber threats effectively.
Lastly, the Counter Ransomware Initiative has heralded a new era of international collaboration in combating cybercrime. With 56 nations actively involved in exchanging tactics and strategies to counter ransomware assaults, this initiative signifies a transformative shift in global cybersecurity cooperation. By reframing the discourse around cybercrime beyond individual state-sponsored actions, the initiative has cultivated a robust network of operational and policy alliances essential for addressing cyber threats on a worldwide scale.
Neuberger’s observations on these pivotal advancements underscore the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the critical need for ongoing innovation and cooperation to effectively mitigate emerging threats.
