IMMUNIZING THE INTERNET, OR: HOW I LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE WORM

This Note argues that computer networks, particularly the Internet, can be
thought of as having immune systems that are strengthened by certain
attacks. Exploitation of security holes prompts users and vendors to
close those holes, vendors to emphasize security in system development,
and users to adopt improved security practices. This constant
strengthening of security reduces the likelihood of a catastrophic attack
— one that would threaten national or even global security. In
essence, certain cybercrime can create more benefits than costs, and
cybercrime policy should take this concept into account.
http://www.harvardlawreview.org/issues/119/june06/note/immunizing_the_internet.pdf
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