Case Discussion: Critical Infrastructure

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Topic

These two cases present different types of critical infrastructure threats$--$a cyber threat and a bridge collapse. Review the course material and answer the following questions:

Question $1$: Threats

Compare these two cases. Describe the types of threats present. What are the typical responses to these types of threats?

How are the U$.$S$.$ and its citizens vulnerable to these threats?

What are the consequences of these threats?

Question $2$: Responsibility

Which agencies are responsible for responding to these hazards?

Are these agencies responsible for these threats happening? Why or why not?

The NIPP designates a federal department or agency as a lead coordinator for specific critical infrastructures. Which agencies are the sector$-$specific agency $($SSA$)$ in charge of each of these threats? What is the role of the SSA and how can this help in coordinating information between partners?

Within each case, what is the role of the private sector in these responses? Why are public$-$private partnerships important in both cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection?

Question $3$: Cause and Mitigation

What are the potential causes for these emerging threats?

Why do some people think that the infrastructure within the U$.$S$.,$ particularly bridges, is in such bad shape?

What can the government do to prevent these threats?

What can the government do to reduce vulnerabilities from these threats?

Concept Bank

Cybercrime

Cybersecurity

Cyberthreat

Sector$-$specific Agency $($SSA$)$

National Infrastructure Protection Plan $($NIPP$)$

Transportation modes $($pg$.361-368)$

Critical infrastructure protection

Physical vs cyberinfrastructure

Risk