While the benefits are vast, so are the dangers. Information Warfare when launched can be an element of surprise giving the attacker the agility to use them effectively for the intended purpose. The immensity of this subject does not permit the use of just one recommended method of protection. Although, all the recommended methods are important and necessary, the study recommends aggressive and overt computer network defense as the best way to protect our infrastructure and citizens.
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BACKGROUND.
Before engaging in a detailed discussion on Information Warfare as a Weapon of Mass Destruction, a brief definition of the traditional Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and its most common forms is warranted. .
Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 1996 described Weapons of Mass Destruction as: .
" any weapon or device that is intended, or has the capability, to cause death or serious bodily injury to a significant number of people through the release, dissemination, or impact of--.
(A) toxic or poisonous chemicals or their precursors;.
(B) a disease organism; or.
(C) radiation or radioactivity" .
The above definition encompasses mass damage caused by chemical, biological and nuclear weapons, which are the most common forms of weapons of mass destruction. Private citizens, profit and non-profit organizations, and governments have studied each one of these three types in depth. These organizations and entities have spent millions of dollars and thousands of hours researching, discovering, and developing newer uses and methods of delivery and defense against these weapons.
Below is a brief and generic description of each of the three traditional weapons of mass destruction - Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Weapons. .
Nuclear Weapons (NW) - Nuclear Weapons, atomic and thermonuclear, are those ordnances that derive force from either the fission or the fusion of atomic nuclei. An aircraft, missile, Earth satellite, or other strategic delivery system can deliver nuclear weapons.
