Exploding Data: Reclaiming Our Cyber Security in the Digital Age

In this bracing book, the second Secretary of Homeland Security makes clear that personal data has become one of the most valuable assets of the modern age―and yet our laws and policies surrounding the protection of personal information are completely out of date and need to be overhauled in the digital era. While the collection of data―more widespread even by business than by government, and impossible to stop―should be facilitated as an ultimate protection for society, Michael Chertoff argues that the standards under which information can be inspected, analyzed, or used must be significantly tightened. In his compelling call for action, he makes clear that what is at stake is not the simple loss of privacy, which is almost impossible to protect, but that of individual autonomy―the ability to make personal choices free of manipulation or coercion. Offering colorful stories from his decades of experience, Chertoff charts a forceful new strategy that balances the needs of individuals, government, and business alike.

Michael Chertoff was the second Secretary of Homeland Security from 2005–2009. He previously served at a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, as a federal prosecutor, as Assistant U.S. Attorney General, and as United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey―one of only two U.S. Attorneys who was not replaced when the Clinton administration took office in 1993. Chertoff is the author of Homeland Security: Assessing the First Five Years. He is today Executive Chairman and Co-founder of The Chertoff Group, a security consulting company, and senior of counsel to the firm of Covington and Burling.