U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) said on Tuesday that the Obama administration’s release of a framework for federal cyber incident coordination was an “important first step forward.”
McCaul, the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, has authored a number of bills to enhance cyber defenses against hackers seeking to harm America’s economic and national security.
“I applaud the administration for taking this important step forward in clarifying the lead federal agencies and their roles and responsibilities for coordinating and responding to domestic cyber attacks,” McCaul said. “I am specifically encouraged that the Department of Homeland Security will lead efforts to finalize the long overdue National Cyber Incident Response Plan—which was required by my National Cybersecurity Protection Act of 2014.”
A presidential policy directive (PPD) issued by President Barack Obama establishes principles that govern the federal government’s response to cyber incidents, including lead federal agencies and a framework for coordinating a broader federal response.
“This vital plan will help ensure these recently-passed cybersecurity laws we have been fighting for will be fully implemented and effectively carried out to strengthen our nation’s cybersecurity,” McCaul said. “Finally, I hope the administration will take quick action to further clarify the parameters and the rules of engagement for cyber warfare.”
Under the PPD, the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice would be required to maintain updated contact information to help victims of cyber incidents report them to proper authorities.