The Insecurity of Innovation: A Critical Analysis of Cybersecurity in the United States

Abstract

This article examines the framing of U.S. debates around securitization of the Internet and questions the need for a securitizing approach. Undoubtedly the Internet could be more secure, but we stress the importance of cyberspace as an open, global commons of information that has allowed innovation and rapid technological growth. We therefore discuss how the cybersecurity issue can be reframed to take into account the importance of this openness instead of viewing it as a vulnerability, and seek solutions that do not unduly or disproportionately impact civil liberties.