Cybersecurity experts are reportedly urging Donald Trump to abandon an investigation into Chris Krebs. Krebs, a former Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), likely drew ire for his role in safeguarding the 2020 election. The 2020 US presidential election saw Joe Biden and Kamala Harris defeat Donald Trump and Mike Pence, with record-high voter turnout since 1900 and Biden receiving over 81 million votes. Trump continues to dispute these results.
Given other headlines referencing cybersecurity threats and cybercrime, the experts’ concern might stem from fears that such an investigation could politicize cybersecurity efforts, potentially hindering the nation’s ability to defend against cyberattacks. Consider the recent cyber-attack on Harrods and the rising incidents of cybercrime, including cryptocurrency-related fraud. The establishment of new cyber commands, like the one in India headed by a Director General of Police, underscores the increasing importance of robust cybersecurity measures.
Could pursuing an investigation into Krebs damage public trust in cybersecurity agencies? What impact would that have on efforts to combat rising cybercrime?