The Register: Infosec was literally the last item in Trump’s policy plan, yet major changes are likely on his watch

Jan 22, 2025

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Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2025/01/22/trump_cyber_policy/
Source: The Register
Title: Infosec was literally the last item in Trump’s policy plan, yet major changes are likely on his watch

Feedly Summary: Everyone agrees defense matters. How to do it is up for debate
Feature The Trump administration came to office this week without a detailed information security policy, but analysis of cabinet nominees’ public remarks and expert comments suggest it will make significant changes in the field.…

AI Summary and Description: Yes

**Summary:** The text discusses the incoming Trump administration’s anticipated changes to cybersecurity policy, especially in light of ongoing vulnerabilities within US critical infrastructure and the effects of prior executive orders. It highlights the implications of these changes on information security, cybersecurity frameworks, accountability in tech, and approaches to national security.

**Detailed Description:**
The provided text outlines significant shifts expected in information security policy under the Trump administration, particularly in the context of challenges posed by cyber adversaries such as China and North Korea. Key points include:

– **Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities:** The text emphasizes that US critical infrastructure remains vulnerable, particularly following incidents such as the “Typhoon” attacks attributed to Chinese actors. The administration’s focus on cybersecurity is a crucial concern due to the proliferation of ransomware and misinformation campaigns.

– **Policy Changes and Regulatory Environment:**
– The Trump administration is expected to revise or revoke existing cybersecurity policies, including those initiated during Biden’s term.
– A market-based approach towards cybersecurity regulations is anticipated, preferring voluntary over mandated security standards.
– There’s a noted concern about the varying infosec regulations across jurisdictions, calling for harmonization to ensure businesses face consistent expectations.

– **Accountability of the Tech Industry:** The administration is expected to engage in discussions regarding the accountability of tech companies concerning their cybersecurity practices. Suggestions include voluntary guidelines for secure development versus mandatory security standards that impose liability for breaches.

– **CISA’s Role and Organizational Changes:**
– The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is likely to see its mission redefined, with a reduced emphasis on disinformation initiatives.
– The text notes personnel challenges within the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB) and critiques the decision to terminate certain advisory committee memberships.

– **Offensive Cyber Operations:** There is speculation regarding a shift towards a more offensive cyber strategy, with calls for the US to undertake proactive actions against adversarial nations rather than maintaining a solely defensive posture.

– **Zero Trust Architecture:** The continuation and maturation of zero trust cybersecurity initiatives are anticipated, as they build resilience against cyber threats based on previous executive orders.

– **Perspectives of Experts:** Information security experts express the need for improved incident reporting practices and greater collaboration between public and private sectors to effectively enhance the nation’s cybersecurity posture.

– **National Security Implications:** The narrative explores the potential for more aggressive tactics aimed at adversaries, including calls for actions against foreign military assets, notably those in China, if cyberattacks persist.

This analysis is crucial for security and compliance professionals as it outlines anticipated policy changes and their implications on cybersecurity practices, regulatory frameworks, and national security strategies within the technology landscape. Understanding how shifts in administration can affect cybersecurity priorities is essential for organizations in preparing for evolving challenges in information security and compliance requirements.

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