Bill Would Give President Obama the Power to “Turn Off The Internet” During a Cyber Emergency

A revised version of a bill first introduced this spring would give the president the power to disconnect private sector computers (or servers) if there is a “Cyber Emergency” This basically means if the bill is passed the president can shut down any website based in the United States.

The new version would allow the president to "declare a cybersecurity emergency" relating to "non-governmental" computer networks and do what's necessary to respond to the threat. Other sections of the proposal include a federal certification program for "cybersecurity professionals," and a requirement that certain computer systems and networks in the private sector be managed by people who have been awarded that license.

Section 201 of this bill also suggests that government will have the power to regulate critical private networks.

Probably the most controversial language begins in Section 201, which permits the president to "direct the national response to the cyber threat" if necessary for "the national defence and security." The White House is supposed to engage in "periodic mapping" of private networks deemed to be critical, and those companies "shall share" requested information with the federal government.

There has been lots of debate over this bill. Some are calling the bill “vague” and others say it is essential to protecting the nations digital infrastructure. What do you think of this bill? Post you comments below.