NCJ Number
196923
Journal
Crime & Justice International Volume: 18 Issue: 64 Dated: July/August 2002 Pages: 11-12,31,32
Date Published
July 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article explains the United States vulnerability to terrorist attacks using our vast network of computers.
Abstract
The author explains that the United States stores vast amounts of information in cyberspace. Our telecommunications infrastructure, energy systems such as electricity and oil, transportation networks, and medical and health care systems are just a few examples of the types of information stored on computers. The author explains that all this information is vulnerable to attacks by terrorists seeking to destroy capitalism and bring about the downfall of the United States. He offers examples of attacks on computers that have been successfully carried out in the past, including the case of a 16-year old boy who disrupted approximately 100 U.S. defense systems in 1994. In another case, Department of Defense computers were broken into approximately 300,000 times in 1994 by unknown persons. Further, as a result of these cyber attacks, the Defense Information Systems Agency tested the military’s vulnerability by attempting to hack into 8,932 Department of Defense computers. They successfully hacked into a staggering 88 percent of these computers. The author warns that we are on the brink of a cyber war. He urges that measures be taken immediately to defend our cyberspace information. He concludes that such measures will necessitate a partnership between the private and public sector because more than 80 percent of information systems are owned by the private sector. In conclusion, the author warns that unless steps are taken immediately to defend our national security, thousands of Americans will lose their lives. 26 Notes