Ars chats with law philosopher Scott Shapiro about his new book, Fancy Bear Goes Phishing.
Is cybersecurity an unsolvable problem?
Scott Shapiro argues that cybersecurity is not primarily a technological issue but a human one. He suggests that there is no permanent solution to the cybersecurity problem, as it involves understanding human behavior and cognition, which are inherently unpredictable.
What role does human behavior play in cybersecurity?
Shapiro emphasizes that the defect lies not in the programming but in human cognition and behavior. He refers to this as 'upcode,' which shapes the programs we create. Understanding these human factors is crucial for addressing cybersecurity challenges.
What can be done to improve cybersecurity education?
Shapiro believes that education must evolve to present hacking as a serious subject. He advocates for teaching students about hacking in a safe and legal context, emphasizing ethical responsibilities and the importance of understanding the technology behind hacking to better protect against it.