Austin News

In a recent Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband hearing titled "Communications Networks Safety & Security," Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) addressed the pressing issue of cyber threats from foreign state-sponsored hackers. He emphasized the need for strategic action over regulatory measures to combat these threats effectively.

Senator Cruz criticized the Biden administration's handling of state-sponsored cyberattacks, suggesting that their approach has harmed U.S. economic interests and national security. He called for a reevaluation of current strategies, advocating for robust incentives and deterrence as key components in defending against such threats.

"Cyberattacks from state-sponsored hackers represent a grave threat," Cruz stated. He highlighted attacks by well-funded hackers from countries like China, Russia, and Iran as significant risks to the U.S. economy and government functions.

The senator pointed to a recent incident involving Chinese hackers known as "Salt Typhoon," who reportedly infiltrated American telecommunications infrastructure. These hackers allegedly accessed sensitive information about Chinese spy networks in the U.S., as well as unencrypted communications of American citizens and leaders.

"There is still much unknown about the Salt Typhoon attack," Cruz noted, underscoring its implications for both the government and public. He described it as part of ongoing interference by China's Communist Party through cyber means.

Cruz urged an overhaul of existing cybersecurity measures across multiple agencies to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in protecting national infrastructure. Criticizing what he views as excessive regulation under the current administration, he argued for streamlined coordination among agencies like DHS and the Department of Justice.

"In addition to plugging any holes," he said, "we should look at coordinating the cybersecurity tools we have already in place."

The senator also expressed skepticism about recent FCC proposals aimed at enhancing cybersecurity frameworks for companies, questioning their efficacy and timing during an administrative transition.

"The FCC should not be using the waning days of this administration to rush into regulatory expansion," Cruz asserted. Instead, he recommended collaboration with cyber experts within the Executive Branch to develop comprehensive solutions moving forward.

Cruz concluded by calling for constructive efforts focused on incentivizing strong cybersecurity defenses rather than punitive measures or ineffective regulations. He warned that continued inadequacies in response could embolden adversaries further.

"One of my Senate colleagues called this the 'worst telecom hack in our nation's history,'" Cruz remarked. If current policies persist, he suggested worse breaches may follow.