Michael Vatis Interviews with NewsNation on Cybersecurity Risks to U.S. Critical Infrastructure

Michael Vatis, partner in the firm’s Litigation and Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice Groups and founding head of the FBI’s computer crime and infrastructure protection program, was recently interviewed by NewsNation for the story, “US must be wary of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure: Expert.”

The piece covers growing concerns over potential cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure amid escalating tensions with Iran. It examines a recent Iranian‑linked cyberattack on medical equipment manufacturer Stryker and explores how increased dependence on interconnected digital systems has heightened risks to essential services, including health care, utilities, and telecommunications. The article is paired with a NewsNation video segment assessing the nation’s readiness to respond to large‑scale cyber threats.

Michael emphasizes that while U.S. cyber defenses have improved over time, the nation remains highly vulnerable due to its reliance on technology to operate critical services. “The vital services that we depend on every day…the whole economy depends on every day,” he said, pointing to sectors such as telecommunications, electric power, gas pipelines, water supplies, and hospitals.

Michael also warned that adversaries could escalate attacks from anywhere in the world, adding, “At the same time, we are still very vulnerable,” and noting that “too many companies don’t adequately prioritize cybersecurity” as digital networks continue to expand.

Read the full article and watch the video here.