Unified Cybersecurity: A Call to Action from Harry Coker
In a recent interview, Harry Coker, the secretary of the Maryland Department of Commerce and former U.S. national cyber director, underscored the critical need for robust public-private partnerships to combat cyber threats. He stressed that these threats transcend geographical boundaries, affecting individuals and organizations across various sectors regardless of their location. Coker’s insights come at a pivotal time in the cybersecurity landscape, where collaboration is increasingly recognized as key to fostering resilience.
Reflecting on his experience at the Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD), Coker observed a noticeable evolution in the federal government’s approach to cybersecurity. He noted a shift toward a proactive stance that prioritizes resilience over mere reactive crisis management. This change is rooted in an enhanced understanding of cybersecurity’s essential role in safeguarding national economic prosperity and security. The realization that defensive measures must adapt to ongoing cyber confrontations represents a significant pivot in strategy.
Coker pointed out the complexities involved in addressing threats originating from nation-state adversaries. He explained that while traditional models focused on kinetic warfare, cybersecurity today mandates a redefinition of defense. "The biggest complication… is that cyber has victimized American residents," he stated, emphasizing that it is the federal government’s responsibility to protect all citizens from these sophisticated intrusions.
During the discussion at the RSA Conference 2025, Coker further elaborated on essential strategies for bolstering cybersecurity. He emphasized the necessity for a shift from reactive measures to proactive resilience-building efforts. Trust and information-sharing between government entities and the private sector emerged as vital components in establishing a robust cybersecurity posture. Furthermore, he called for the development of smart regulations and harmonized compliance measures aimed at minimizing costs while enhancing overall national security.
As the U.S. national cyber director from 2023 to 2025, Coker provided strategic guidance on cybersecurity policy and operations, previously serving as the executive director of the National Security Agency. His remarks highlight an urgent need for the business community to engage actively in collaborative efforts to mitigate the risks posed by cyber attacks.
In evaluating potential adversary tactics that could have been employed in these attacks, one can reference the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Tactics such as initial access and persistence may play a crucial role in how adversaries operate. The emphasis on building trust and sharing threat intelligence indicates a recognition that effective cybersecurity requires a unified front.
Coker’s call for a coordinated public-private strategy reflects a growing consensus that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue but a collective responsibility. As businesses face an increasingly complex digital landscape, understanding and acting upon these insights will be paramount in safeguarding against the pervasive and evolving threats that characterize today’s cyber environment.
