The simulation began with a virus infecting smartphones and was then transmitted to users’ PCs when they synced their computers with their smartphones. It took down wireless and wired networks through a distributed denial of service attack, sending large video files out until they flooded the networks. And, from there, it actually shut down telecom networks, electrical grids and gase lines…all hypothetically of course.

So, what is the administration to do with all this press coverage that shows how completely vulnerable we are? Perhaps a better PR campaign to showcase any upcoming developments, momentum and new policies — basically show that we are addressing these issues. Then again, the big challenge in doing security-related publicity is that one does not want to let the “bad guys” know what is going on. Yes, it is a fine line to walk. But either way, we look vulnerable and weak, which could only whet the bad guys’ appetites a bit more. What do you all think?

So, does this mean that our nation’s cyber security efforts, to date, have been mostly big promises and political posturing? That is certainly what the report says – very clearly. Of course, things move slowly in Washington, D.C. and, well, it took a very long time for the Obama Administration to name the cyber security czar. Well, I guess it’s now up to Howard Schmidt to kick it in high gear and get things done. What do you think?