Reflecting on the volunteer spirit initiated by Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century, two cybersecurity experts are rallying hackers to combat cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure. The Franklin Project, founded by Jeff Moss of DEF CON and Jake Braun, a former White House official, seeks to defend the most vulnerable sectors like water systems and schools against increasing cyberattacks. This modern initiative aims to harness the skills of volunteer hackers to help protect essential services and national security interests.
The 2023 launch of the Franklin Project at hacker conferences in Las Vegas marks a significant push to utilize the capabilities of the hacking community. Supported by the Craig Newmark Foundation, the initiative responds to recent incidents where flawed code disrupted global flights and critical services, underlining the need for robust civilian cyber defenses. In previous years, similar efforts to boost cybersecurity in essential sectors have emerged, driven by an urgent need to secure vital infrastructure.
Defending Water Systems and Schools
The Franklin Project’s focus includes safeguarding the water and wastewater sectors and K-12 school systems, which are particularly susceptible to cyber threats. Efforts to impose mandatory cybersecurity regulations on the water sector have faced legal challenges, while numerous initiatives attempt to bolster cybersecurity in schools. Despite these efforts, the surge in ransomware attacks demonstrates the limitations of federal resources in protecting these critical areas.
Volunteers in the Franklin Project will provide essential cyber protections, bridging the gap between those with cybersecurity expertise and the sectors needing it most. Braun likened the initiative to a matchmaking service, emphasizing the importance of connecting skilled individuals with organizations requiring protection. The Biden administration has acknowledged the vulnerability of these sectors, highlighting the necessity for improved cybersecurity measures.
Disrupting Cyber Attacks
Josh Corman’s UnDisruptable27 project, also announced in Las Vegas, aims to prepare front-line workers against cyber-physical threats targeting infrastructure such as water and healthcare. This initiative, focusing on resilience, addresses concerns about the potential for sophisticated cyberattacks from nation-states like China. With significant funding from Craig Newmark, the project underscores the critical need for preparedness in the face of evolving cyber threats.
The ongoing efforts by civilian hackers to protect critical infrastructure highlight an increasing trend in civic engagement within the cybersecurity community. As federal resources are stretched thin, projects like the Franklin Project and UnDisruptable27 play a crucial role in fortifying essential services against cyber threats. Craig Newmark’s support for these initiatives reflects a broader push to enhance cybersecurity at all levels, emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect public safety and national security.
