Washington: The challenges posed to national security by the 9/11 terror attack and recent US cyberattacks are alike, claimed the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). FBI Director Christopher Wray drew attention to the fact that both the attacks compelled the ordinary citizens to face immense turmoil. Three years ago, US cybersecurity experts had warned that in future, cyberattacks would be as dangerous as the 9/11 terrorist attack.
Over the last year, the US has faced a series of major cyberattacks. These attacks have targeted leading companies such as Microsoft, SolarWinds and FireEye, alongside crucial government agencies. In addition, the number of ‘Ransomware’ cyberattacks in the United States have risen in the last month. In May, the cyberattack targeted Colonial Pipeline, the most extensive US pipeline system.