Recent reports of the computers used to pilot General Atomics Aeronautical Systems' Predator drones being infected with a computer virus -- one that so far has proven impossible to remove -- are a perfect example of why cyber security is becoming an increasingly hot topic in defense.
General Atomics is the prime contractor for the Predator, but subcontractors include Northrop Grumman
Not just a defense problem
So far there haven't been any confirmed incidents of classified information being sent out as a result of the Predator virus, but experts are reportedly struggling to remove the virus from the Predator computers. According to Richard Clarke, a top advisor to three presidents, the United States' computer networks are so vulnerable to attack that going to war against computer-savvy countries like China, North Korea, Iran, or Russia could result in a cyber attack that would crash the U.S. economic system.
With the U.S. economy just barely limping along as it is, a cyber attack that could bring the economic system to a screeching halt is no laughing matter. So what can be done?
Cyber defenders to the rescue!
The threat to cyber security is a real problem, but luckily, there are also real solutions. Companies like CACI International
High-demand companies of the future
As technology and computers become more and more critical in defense, and in general, the risk of a cyber attack also increases. Fortunately, there are companies out there that are actively combating this problem, and as such, are set to benefit from increasing demand. This could help drive these companies' long-term growth, making them stocks you should think about taking a look at right now.
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