EC admits US cyber trust ‘damaged’ by PRISM revelations

The European Commission (EC) said its trust in the US has been ‘damaged’ by the PRISM spying revelations, and this could hamper efforts to fight cybercrime.
Speaking on Friday Cecilia Malmström, the European commissioner for home affairs, said that while co-operation between the US and Europe is vital to tackle cybercrime and terrorism, the relationship was not as strong as it should be since Edward Snowden's revelations began in June 2013.
“I would be lying to you if I said that our trust has not been damaged after the Snowden revelations. Because it has,” she said.
Malmström said, though, she was confident things would improve again and that a good relationship between the US and the European Union (EU) was vital to ensure the battle to protect the web and the world of business was won.
“I do see some promising signs that what is now happening in the US, and also in Europe for that matter, will result in security policies better anchored in privacy and adequate data protection.”
She said it was vital that such partnerships survive as the threats to the online world continue to evolve. Malmström cited cybercrime – ranging from attacks on banking systems to child exploitation – as one of the most lucrative forms of organised crime.
"But it's not just organised criminals; even state and non-state actors have quickly learned how to use the internet for disruptive purposes. This can include everything from spying to get sensitive information, to damage critical infrastructure."
As well as promoting the need for governments to maintain good co-operation to counter these threats, she also urged tech firms to take responsibility for educating customers on good security practices.
"While governments need to accept that all problems cannot be addressed by legislation, the tech sector has to assume an even greater responsibility in protecting the networks and help us educate citizens so they know how to act online,” she said.
“This includes changing passwords, having adequate firewalls and not responding to all sorts of scams taking place.”
The comments by Malmström echo those of vice president for the EC's digital agenda Neelie Kroes who has previously warned that revelations of the PRISM spying campaign could stop businesses using cloud computing in the US and UK.