Topic: Cyber Operations

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2014, specifically HR 3304, was signed by the President on December 26 during a vacation in Hawaii. Sections 932 and 1071 authorize the U.S. Cyber Command to conduct offensive military cyber operations and establish a principal cyber advisor. The act also includes provisions for cyber outreach to small businesses, which is interpreted as a mechanism for the government to protect the intellectual property of the film industry.

The FBI has expanded its "Cyber Most Wanted" list to include ten fugitives. The crimes listed range from sophisticated identity theft to relatively minor offenses like selling "Lover Spy" software and running pop-up advertisement scams. The hosts question the use of federal resources to pursue individuals involved in $89 software sales or phone-bill redirection.

The Deloitte & Touche "Global Defense Outlook 2013" report outlines a shift in military strategy toward special operations and cyber warfare. As traditional defense budgets in high-income states decline, the report suggests a "balancing" of security and prosperity. The U.S. Cyber Command, established in 2009, is highlighted as a primary area of investment to exploit the military potential of the digital domain.

The August 2009 National Intelligence Strategy, published by Director of National Intelligence Dennis Blair, identifies Iran, North Korea, and Russia as primary challenges to U.S. interests. Despite the Obama administration's diplomatic overtures, the document classifies Russia as a complicating factor due to its efforts to reassert power. The strategy also emphasizes "emerging" threats such as cyber operations alongside traditional military force.