The article Social Cybersecurity – An Emerging National Security Requirement identifies some very valid points on the evolution of the cybersecurity field and the flow of information, specifically pertaining to the national level. It points out that the information that is shared and transferred has become both decentralized and removes the need for a physical presence.
It further points out that when it comes to information shared online, social maneuvers are used commonly to try to influence users. This extends to not only information, but the spread of different ideas and beliefs. Inherently, the sharing of ideas and beliefs is not malicious, and instead is encouraged to help promote new, diverse ideas. However, in terms of actors using these maneuvers, these actors are purposefully manipulating the information being shared. The article describes the motives of this manipulation to be to “dismiss, distort, dismay, and distract”.
I feel as though this article effectively lays out potential forms and methods of manipulating information used and points out their potential consequences on national security. I believe it also exemplifies the importance of security in the current, ever-evolving cyber space.