Virtual War a Real Threat Will Galloway 4/18/2011 CSCE 390 Article: Virtual War a Real Threat By Ken Dilanian, Washington Bureau March 28,

Summary When a recent security hole in a large Southern California water system was discovered, the government was in panic. If this information got into the hands of terrorists, then many Americans could die in a cyber war. Everything is automated from putting chemicals into water to flying airplanes. Terrorists would be able to hack in to the systems and change the information contaminating the water and crashing the planes. Luckily terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda do not have the resources to conduct a large scale cyber attack, but larger forces like China and Russia do.

Ethical Decision Step 1) The ethical issue is that with a security hole, anyone including terrorist groups can hack into water supplies and airplanes and kill many civilians. Step 2) Companies with security hole - They would like to see these holes fixed. If they get hacked, civilians could die. Civilians - Same as above. Terrorist groups - They would like for everything to stay the way it is. Step 3) A) Fix the holes. B) Keep the holes. I would fix the holes, mainly because I enjoy living. Step 4) I would be willing for everyone to use this solution because if they don't and terrorists do hack the systems, many civilians could die.

Ethical Decision cont. Step 5) This solution is not balanced between both parties, but I believe that this solution is the most ethical one. It hurts the terrorists but they were going to use it for unethical purposes anyways. Step 6) This solution will produce the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Step 7) This solution is the one I feel most committed to. If it saves the life of people, it peeks my interest. Step 8) The philosophy that helped me with this decision is idealism because the "goodness is found in the ideal."

Applying the ACM Code This solution follows the ACM code because: It contributes to society and human well being It avoids harm to others It honors property rights It respects the privacy of others It honors confidentiality It does not break any laws It maintains professional competence