Steptoe Cyberlaw Podcast: An Interview with Kiersten Todt

Too busy to read the 100-page Presidential Commission on Enhancing National Security report on what the next administration should do about cybersecurity? No worries. Episode 142 features a surprisingly contentious but highly informative dialog about the report with Kiersten Todt, the commission’s executive director.

In the news, Lindsey Graham, John McCain, and a host of Dems want to investigate Russia’s role in the recent election, while the President-elect thinks it’s, well, fake news, to borrow a lefty trope. Michael Vatis presses me to pick a side. Long-time listeners won’t be surprised at my answer.

The Ninth Circuit offers ginger approval for the use of FISA-derived evidence in a criminal trial.

Gen. John Kelly is picked to head DHS. What does that say about its role in cybersecurity? Nothing, I venture. On crypto, though, we could finally see a commission. Chairman McCaul supports the idea, and it’s just possible that foreign government action and the Trump presidency will finally make Silicon Valley nervous enough to stop stonewalling and start talking.

We close with a definitive five-minute briefing on the future of net neutrality. The quick answer is that the dingoes are running the child care center.

As always, the Cyberlaw Podcast welcomes feedback. Send an email to CyberlawPodcast@steptoe.com or leave a message at +1 202 862 5785.

Download the 142nd episode (mp3).

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The views expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not reflect the opinions of the firm.