Internet or bust : market driven cybersecurity in the USA

Abstract

The introduction of the internet has played a large role in how humans exist. From the way we conduct business, communicate, socialize and acquire information, no longer are we dependent on a geographical location to explore our world. However, with all of the good the Internet has brought us, our ability to access that data may be denied or hindered by business practices or limitation of physical infrastructure; creating inequalities on the net. During 2010 to 2017, the United States of America found net neutrality principles as a way to safeguard citizens. However this was reversed when in 2018 the Federal Communications Commission moved to dismantle those principles under the ruling Restoring Internet Freedom, instead looking to market to help drive security. This thesis investigates the judgement of the Federal Communications Commission decision to implement the policy Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, and Order: Restoring Internet Freedom. This policy rolls back Obama-era net neutrality measures that were implemented under Open Internet Order of 2010 and 2015. Asking the research: How is the governing of internet access in the United States, as expressed in the new 2018 ruling, affecting citizens’ security?