In a recent discussion, Harry Coker, the current Secretary of the Maryland Department of Commerce and former U.S. National Cyber Director, highlighted the critical importance of public-private partnerships in combating cyber threats. According to Coker, these threats transcend geographical boundaries, impacting individuals globally, regardless of their location. His insights shed light on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the need for collaborative efforts to address these challenges effectively.
Reflecting on his tenure at the Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD), Coker pointed out a significant evolution in the federal government’s approach to cybersecurity. He noticed that there is now a greater acknowledgment of cybersecurity’s essential role in ensuring national economic prosperity and security. This shift in perception has prompted a proactive stance, focusing on building resilience against cyber threats rather than merely responding to crises as they arise.
Coker underscored a major complication within the realm of cybersecurity: the victimization of American residents by cyber activities originating from nation-state adversaries. Traditionally, the U.S. government has protected its citizens from threats based on kinetic warfare models. However, in today’s digital age, cyber warfare has become a significant battleground, necessitating a robust defense strategy against nation-state actors targeting American individuals.
During an interview at the RSAC Conference 2025 with the Information Security Media Group, Coker elaborated on several key points. He emphasized the importance of transitioning from reactive responses to building proactive resilience in cybersecurity practices. Furthermore, he stressed the necessity of fostering trust and sharing threat intelligence between the government and the private sector to enhance cybersecurity effectiveness. He also advocated for smart regulations and harmonized regulatory frameworks to reduce compliance costs while bolstering national security.
Coker’s experience as the U.S. National Cyber Director from 2023 to 2025 provided him with a unique perspective on cybersecurity strategy and policy. As a principal advisor to the President on these matters, and with his previous role as Executive Director of the National Security Agency, Coker is well-versed in the complexities and demands of safeguarding national cybersecurity. His insights serve as a call to action for a unified approach to addressing the ever-evolving challenges in cyberspace.