Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure: Challenges ahead in the Trump administration

As Donald Trump returns to the presidency, the cybersecurity landscape presents a mix of challenges, including increasing threats to critical infrastructure, evolving international cyber threats, and the need for balanced regulation.

These challenges demand an approach that prioritizes informed consent in data handling, protection of vital systems, and strategic alliances to safeguard national security. The administration’s anticipated preference for deregulation and aggressive countermeasures is poised to redefine cybersecurity policies in the coming years.

The role of CISA in safeguarding the nation

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), established during Trump’s first term, plays a crucial role in securing the nation’s infrastructure. From issuing alerts to defending against election interference, CISA has significantly influenced the cybersecurity landscape. However, its involvement in countering election disinformation during the 2020 elections has drawn criticism from conservative groups, raising concerns about free speech and overreach.

Proposals from groups like the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 recommend restructuring CISA, including moving it under another department and eliminating redundant duties. Programs like Secure by Design and the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative have received bipartisan support for promoting public-private partnerships and enhancing software security.

CISA must balance proactive cybersecurity measures with protecting individual rights, making informed consent in data sharing essential to maintaining public trust.

Although Trump’s administration may seek to reform CISA, its core functions are expected to remain. Budget cuts, particularly from figures like Senator Rand Paul, may limit resources, but collaboration with the private sector for infrastructure protection is likely to continue.

As cyber threats evolve, CISA’s role may expand to include automated defenses and AI-driven systems. Its success will depend on transparency and cooperation with the private sector, ensuring informed consent for data-sharing practices.

Addressing international cybersecurity threats

The increasing complexity of global cybersecurity threats demands a comprehensive strategy. State-sponsored hackers, including groups linked to China and Russia, pose significant risks to U.S. infrastructure. Recent incidents, such as Chinese infiltration of water systems and power grids, underscore the potential for catastrophic disruptions. Similarly, ransomware attacks by groups operating from Russia have targeted critical sectors, including healthcare and education.

The Biden administration took a strong stance against these international actors, but Trump’s approach could involve direct retaliation. For example, offensive cyber operations targeting adversaries like Russia and North Korea may become a hallmark of his administration’s cybersecurity policy. A proactive approach could deter future attacks but also raise the stakes of cyber conflicts.

A proactive strategy

The Trump administration is expected to take a proactive approach to international threats, including offensive actions like disabling ransomware networks and sanctioning nations harboring cybercriminals. Its strategy will focus on bilateral partnerships with allies, rather than multilateral agreements like the UN Cybercrime Convention.

By taking a more aggressive stance against state-sponsored cyber actors, the Trump administration will likely focus on direct diplomatic pressure and cyber deterrence strategies. However, this could create tension with international allies, particularly if proactive cyber responses spill over into unintended areas or violate international law.

The role of informed consent

As cyber threats grow more pervasive, informed consent becomes essential in addressing privacy concerns tied to global cybersecurity efforts. Ensuring individuals and organizations understand how their data is used in combating cyber threats will strengthen trust in government-led initiatives. Transparent communication about data collection and protection policies can also mitigate fears of overreach or misuse.

When governments partner with private companies to monitor cyber activities, clear guidelines on data sharing help citizens feel secure. Informed consent ensures data collection is legal and purposeful, encouraging cooperation from both businesses and the public.

Protecting critical infrastructure

Persistent vulnerabilities: Critical infrastructure is a major target for cyberattacks, with incidents like the 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack and the 2022 Change Healthcare breach highlighting vulnerabilities. The EPA has also flagged weak cybersecurity in drinking water systems.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security reports a 50% rise in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and water systems remain highly vulnerable, and while the government has made efforts to improve security, coordination issues at state and local levels hinder progress.

Shifting regulatory frameworks: The Biden administration implemented mandatory cybersecurity standards for sectors like pipelines and healthcare, while Trump’s approach may favor voluntary compliance with incentives like tax breaks, raising concerns about addressing vulnerabilities.

Businesses will be encouraged to manage cybersecurity independently, though many may face challenges. The Trump administration could introduce programs to educate on cybersecurity roles, emphasizing informed consent and potential risks.

The Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022, aimed at improving threat awareness, is still in early stages. The Trump administration is likely to adjust its implementation to align with current regulations and fill existing reporting gaps.

Enhancing public-private partnerships: Public-private partnerships are vital for infrastructure protection, with initiatives like the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative helping businesses and government share resources to boost resilience.

However, concerns about the private sector collecting personal data for these efforts persist. Ensuring transparency and obtaining informed consent will be crucial for fostering trust between the government, businesses, and the public.

Emerging concerns: AI and technology policy

Artificial intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and risks. The Biden administration prioritized ethical AI practices, emphasizing transparency and safety, while the Trump administration focused more on efficiency and performance than on ethical concerns.

AI technologies also raise cybersecurity concerns, particularly around intellectual property theft by state-backed actors targeting AI labs. Establishing strong security standards and ensuring informed consent in sensitive areas like healthcare, surveillance, and law enforcement will be key to maintaining public trust.

The semiconductor industry and technology oversight

The semiconductor industry is a key focus, with the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 providing funding for domestic manufacturing. While Biden prioritized funding, Trump criticized the program, pushing for tariffs to boost production. The initiative’s future depends on broader economic and trade policies.

Trump’s return could reignite debates over Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields platforms from liability for user content. Conservatives have called for changes, but Trump’s involvement with Truth Social may reduce calls for drastic reforms.

Legislative and industry implications

Congress may revisit federal data privacy efforts, potentially focusing on clear data use guidelines and ensuring informed consent, following disagreements over California’s privacy laws.

The State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program expires in 2025, prompting concerns. Its success may lead to calls for renewal or permanent replacement. Addressing cybersecurity workforce shortages through education, training, and awareness campaigns will strengthen national resilience.

Balancing Innovation with Regulation

The rapid pace of technological advancement requires a careful balance between encouraging innovation and ensuring security. While deregulation may spur growth, it risks creating vulnerabilities that adversaries can exploit. A nuanced approach—one that emphasizes informed consent, transparency, and collaboration—will be key to navigating these challenges.

For example, as quantum computing and blockchain technologies gain traction, the administration will need to address their cybersecurity implications. Establishing standards for secure implementation while fostering innovation will require cooperation between government, industry, and academia.

Building a resilient future

The Trump administration faces complex cybersecurity challenges, including infrastructure protection, international threats, and ethical technology use. A strategy focused on collaboration, transparency, and informed consent is essential to address these issues.

Transparency and accountability are key to successful cybersecurity policies. Clear communication about data protection and breach management will build trust. Promoting informed consent at all levels will strengthen public confidence in cybersecurity efforts.

As cyber threats become more advanced, a unified defense approach is crucial. Coordinating efforts across federal, state, and private sectors will improve response efforts, while ensuring public understanding and consent will help build a stronger cybersecurity framework.