1
The Case of CyberTech Company - Applying Critical Thinking
Student’s Name
Department, University
Course Code: Name of Course
Instructor
Due Date
2
The Case of CyberTech Company - Applying Critical Thinking
CyberTech faces an ethical dilemma, figuring out whether it should aid Anomalous in a
lawsuit against Equation Set while engaged with the OPM hack. In this context, the corporation
must assess the available data to determine whether it can serve in both cases. CyberTech has to
consider potential conflicts of interest by participating in both cases.
The first approach by CyberTech is to examine if there are laws governing its interactions
and operations with the two companies. Regarding the data given, Anomalous is a non-U.S.
based firm. On the other hand, OPM and Equation are based in the United States. Therefore, the
cases are more likely to attract global cybersecurity law implications. Waxman (2018) found that
international treaties and laws, including formal accords among states and consistent and general
practices adopted following a sense of obligation, are enacted slowly while modern tech is
advancing at a high rate. Laws, such as those involved in physical military attacks against the
U.S. do not address cyberattacks. The laws do not focus on the cybersecurity domain.
Meanwhile, while there is no particular international precedents or laws guarding the
engagement of CyberTech, the firm has a chance to establish a precedent, becoming a point of
reference for the following cases. Knowles (2016) argues that in a situation where there are no
codified cybersecurity laws or ethics, individual companies are obligated to determine the best fit
ethical response. Such ethics can be highly subjective, impacted by personality, education,
culture, and background. They must also target equality, eliminating all types of biases.
CyberTech could exculpate Anomalous in the ongoing hack lawsuit following its
privileged relationship and position. The defendant is a primary suspect in the case, but
speculation does not lead to a conviction. The plaintiff must provide sufficient evidence to
support the case. Besides, the ongoing investigations do not point to Anomalous but state-funded
3
agents. However, for CyberTech to help Anomalous efficiently, it has to open up about its
involvement or innocence in the OPM hack. That way, CyberTech could act fast, narrowing
down suspects. The approach would benefit Anomalous and CyberTech as it will sustain its
brand image, especially if the case concludes due to support from its forensic team.
Nevertheless, some people may claim that CyberTech can serve in both cases by
distinguishing their features. CyberTech would have to assign distinct teams on the cases. Such
teams must work independently and be regulated by stringent ethical principles. Regardless of
the uncertainty, CyberTech must thoroughly evaluate issues presented in both cases and make a
valid stance to retain its position as a profoundly moral cybersecurity firm. Creating an appealing
brand image or reputation takes time and hard work; hence, it is worth safeguarding.
The misalignment of cybersecurity laws with the fast technological development makes it
challenging for CyberTech to guide and protect the involved parties. However, CyberTech
cannot exploit the loophole because no one can hold them liable. The most viable approach by
CyberTech is to avoid the Anomalous. Being the leading suspect in the OPM hack case,
Anomalous would attract unnecessary attention to CyberTech, raising conflict of interest
questions. Such perception by the public could harm CyberTech’s reputation. CyberTech can
help Anomalous, but taking the case would mean betting on its brand image. It would be best to
avoid any engagement with the company.
4
References
Knowles, A. (2016). Tough challenges in cybersecurity ethics. Security Intelligence.
https://securityintelligence.com/tough-challenges-cybersecurity-ethics/
Waxman, M. C. (2018). Cybersecurity & international law. Hoover Organization.
https://www.hoover.org/sites/default/files/waxman_stanford_cyber_presentation.pdf
