Sen. Warner introduces act to improve drone cybersecurity

James Dalpino
·2 min read
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.

WASHINGTON D.C. (WFXR) — Virginia U.S. Senator Mark Warner, along with South Dakota Senator John Thune have announced legislation to develop cybersecurity guidelines for the federal government’s use of drones by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The DETECT Act, also known as the Drone Evaluation, to Eliminate Cyber Threats Act of 2024. Drones have the ability to collect and store sensitive information, which needs to be protected. The legislation would create guidelines for the federal government and limit their use of civilian drones.

“Drones and unmanned systems have the capability to transform the way we do business, manage our infrastructure, and deliver life-saving medicine, and as drones become a larger part of our society, it’s crucial that we ensure their safety and security,” said Sen. Warner. “This legislation will establish sensible cybersecurity guidelines for drones used by the federal government to ensure that sensitive information is protected while we continue to invest in this new technology.”

Governor Youngkin issues Executive Order creating guidelines on AI

Specifically, the DETECT ACT:

  • Directs NIST to develop guidelines covering cybersecurity for civilian drones.

  • Directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to test the guidelines by requiring one federal agency to implement them on a pilot basis.

  • Directs OMB, after the conclusion of the test period described above, to require every agency with civilian drones to implement politics and principles based on the NIST guidelines.

  • Directs OMB to issue guidance to agencies governing the reporting of security vulnerabilities discovered in drones used by the agencies.

  • Requires contractors who supply civilian drones or drone-related services to the federal government to report any security vulnerabilities discovered.

  • Directs the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council to promulgate any necessary regulation to carry the forgoing contractor requirements into effect.

  • Forbids agencies from acquiring drones that do not meet the guidelines referenced above, subject to a waiver process under certain circumstances.

To see full details of the DETECT Act, follow the link here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.