Question: Security The Office of Cyber and Infrastructure Analysis (OCIA), a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, strives to thwart and respond to physical or cyberthreats and hazards. Part of the office's role is to implement two policies: (1) Presidential Policy Directive 21 - Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience, and (2) Executive Order 13636 - Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. These two policies are designed to strengthen and secure the country's critical physical assets and services, such as air traffic control, natural gas supplies, water treatment, power plants, and finance, which are likely targets of cyberattacks. Federal agencies must comply with and routinely assess privacy standards and civil liberties protections. The government must share information regarding the cyberthreats, such as malicious code found on networks, but not contents of personal email messages. The private companies are urged to adopt the security incentives and increase their security ­systems, but participation is voluntary.

Research This: Locate Presidential Policy Directive 21 - Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience and Executive Order 13636 - Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity and read their contents. Then, research news articles describing lawmakers' and businesses' support and criticism of these orders. What components are proposed to increase the nation's cybersecurity? What positions do the Internet Security Alliance and The Internet Association take on this matter? What efforts has Congress made to pass legislation addressing computer security?