Threat Intelligence, Network Security

Cyber commander expresses concerns to Senate over ISIS capabilities

One of the many possible cyber scenarios keeping U.S. commanders awake at night is having the Islamic State develop the capability to alter sensitive information that could endanger American forces.

Adm. Michael Rogers, head of the U.S. Cyber Command, told the Senate Armed Services Committee on April 5 that he fears ISIS gaining the ability to hack into U.S. systems to manipulate data during the course of a battle or cause problems in a more subtle way by altering medical records in such a way that could lead to someone being treated incorrectly, according to USA Today.

Rogers also discussed larger problems like ISIS shutting down the U.S. electric grid. However, he said ISIS has not yet exhibited such capability.

"It would not be difficult. It's about recruiting the right people with the right focus. It's certainly not beyond their ability if they made that decision,” he said.

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