In this op-ed, cybersecurity policy experts Nicholas Leiserson and Mark Montgomery argue that despite growing cyber threats from criminals and nation-state actors causing billions in damages, 90% of cyber losses remain uninsured due to insurers' concerns about catastrophic systemic incidents. They propose a government-backed cyber reinsurance program—similar to the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program—to cap insurer losses, lower premiums, and expand coverage, while protecting taxpayers through built-in recoupment mechanisms. The authors criticize Congress for narrowly focusing on whether "cyber terrorism" qualifies for existing programs instead of addressing the broader cyber insurance gap, urging lawmakers to seize the upcoming TRIP reauthorization deadline to enact a market-based solution before another devastating incident occurs. Read it here.

Oleksii Lytvynenko, a 43-year-old Ukrainian national accused of being a key member of the notorious Conti ransomware group, pleaded not guilty in federal court to cybercrime charges that could result in up to 25 years in prison. Extradited from Ireland to Tennessee, Lytvynenko allegedly participated in ransomware attacks that targeted more than 1,000 victims worldwide, extorted millions of dollars, and caused significant disruptions—including compromising critical public safety services in Tennessee. Prosecutors say he continued criminal activities even after Conti’s dissolution, and his arrest highlights ongoing international efforts to bring ransomware actors to justice. Matt has more.

In this episode of Safe Mode, Betsy Cooper, founding director of the Aspen Institute’s Policy Academy, details a new initiative designed to mobilize ordinary citizens as cybersecurity policy advocates. The Cyber Civic Engagement program, supported by Craig Newmark Philanthropies’ Take9 campaign, offers virtual training sessions to equip participants with effective communication techniques, policy writing know-how, and access to one-on-one advocacy coaching. As digital threats multiply, Cooper argues that community storytelling and grassroots engagement are essential tools for prompting government action and ensuring critical local services are protected. Listen here.