Author Archive

David DiMolfetta

Cybersecurity Reporter, Nextgov/FCW

David DiMolfetta
David DiMolfetta covers cybersecurity for Nextgov/FCW. Previously, he researched The Cybersecurity 202 and The Technology 202 newsletters at The Washington Post and covered AI, cybersecurity and technology policy for S&P Global Market Intelligence. He holds a BBA from The George Washington University and an MS from Georgetown University. Get in touch with him on X/Twitter: @ddimolfetta . If you have a tip you'd like to share, David can be securely contacted at djd.99 on Signal.
Science & Tech

AI may revive old-school tradecraft even as it transforms intelligence work

As electronic messages get harder to trust, human meetings will become more important than ever, a former CIA agent argues.

Threats

Pro-Iran hackers claim breach of FBI director’s email

The leaks appear to be authentic, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Policy

ODNI is building a framework to boost spy agencies’ AI adoption

A tech modernization push launched last year also included expanded threat hunting across IC networks, according to an official.

Threats

Ex-NSA leaders say Americans are becoming ‘numb’ to cyber threats

A serious cyberattack hasn’t prompted a strong enough policy or public reaction, one former director said.

Exclusive Policy

New NSA director urges more intelligence sharing with allies

In his first all-hands meeting, Gen. Josh Rudd told personnel to work with partner countries "until it hurts"

Policy

DNI's threat assessment omits foreign election interference

Tulsi Gabbard's contradictory Iran nuclear testimony highlights tensions between intelligence community and White House war justifications.

Policy

US counterterrorism chief resigns over Iran war

Joe Kent said Iran “posed no imminent threat to our nation” and that the attack was launched after pressure from Israel.

Policy

StateChat users move to older AI model as State dumps Anthropic

The chatbot's new model is trained on data only through May 2024, 13 months behind Claude.

Policy

NSA, Cyber Command get a permanent leader, ending 11-month gap

Gen. Joshua Rudd has spent his career largely in special operations and joint command roles.

Policy

Air Force cybersecurity chief tapped to lead Pentagon's information-security efforts

James Bishop will replace acting DCIO(CS)-CISO David McKeown, who followed acting chief Katie Arrington.

Exclusive Policy

CISA nominee: I left Coast Guard to address GOP hold

Sean Plankey told Nextgov he was reacting to lawmakers' concerns about his shipbuilding ties.

Policy

Trump’s CISA nominee to exit Coast Guard role, but still in running to lead cyber agency

Sean Plankey has been serving in a Coast Guard advisory role for some months and is still set to be the nominee to lead CISA.

Threats

Cyber, Space Commands were among 'first movers' in strikes on Iran: top general

Coordinated space and cyber operations left Iran "without the ability to see, coordinate or respond effectively," Gen. Caine said.

Threats

Intelligence firms watch for uptick in Iran cyber activity after US, Israel strikes

Analysts say organizations should remain vigilant, though early indications show Iran-linked hackers have overstated their success.

Threats

Fake DOD memo about ‘compromised’ apps shows swift spread of deceptive messaging

The message, widely circulated as the U.S. bombed Iran, shows how quickly unverified information can reach troops.

Threats

Strikes on Iran will test US cyber strategy abroad, and defenses at home

The federal government’s cyber defense agency is short-staffed, and Tehran is known for its retaliatory cyberattacks.

Policy

Sen. Wyden to block confirmation for NSA director, citing lack of experience

The Oregon senator took issue with Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd’s responses to questions regarding civil liberties and oversight against unlawful surveillance.

Policy

CISA to furlough most of its workforce under impending DHS shutdown

The shutdown would also slow ongoing revamps of a major cyber incident reporting rule that was signed into law in 2022, acting director Madhu Gottumukkala said this week.