Compromised hardware poses a significant threat to national security. An opinion piece featured in The Hill sheds light on a critical aspect often overlooked in cybersecurity discussions. While the focus typically centers on addressing software/cyber vulnerabilities, the real danger lurks within the hardware itself. Nations such as Russia, China, and Iran may engage in clandestine, long-term strategies involving the insertion of concealed capabilities into vital components like computer boards, microchips, and network devices. These covert alterations can remain dormant for extended periods, eluding routine security scans until activated to unleash substantial disruptions. This significant risk underscores the vulnerability of our hardware, serving as a potential Achilles’ heel that adversaries can exploit at will.
