How Different Countries Handle Hackers: From Strict Punishments to Rewards, Where Does Indonesia Stand?

Jakarta, INTI - In the world of technology, hackers are a phenomenon that often sparks controversy. On one hand, they can pose threats to national security. On the other hand, they can also be valuable assets to a country. Each nation has its own approach to dealing with hackers, depending on its cybersecurity policies and legal frameworks. This article examines how various countries handle hackers, from harsh punishments to offering rewards.

The United States: Rewarding Ethical Hackers, Punishing Cybercriminals

The United States takes a balanced approach to handling hackers. The country highly values ethical hackers who help improve system security. Many companies in the U.S. run bug bounty programs to find security loopholes with the help of hackers. Major companies like Google, Facebook, and Apple offer significant rewards to hackers who can identify vulnerabilities in their platforms.

However, for hackers who engage in illegal activities, the United States enforces strict punishments. Laws such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) impose prison sentences for unauthorized hacking activities. The U.S. also has the FBI Cyber Task Force, a special team dedicated to handling cyber threats and identifying hackers involved in cybercrimes.

Russia: Hackers as a State Asset

In Russia, some hacker groups work in collaboration with the government to protect and uphold national interests. Fancy Bear and Cozy Bear, two well-known hacker groups from Russia, are frequently cited as being involved in international espionage. While other countries view these activities as a threat, the Russian government sees hackers as strategic assets.

However, not all hackers in Russia operate under government direction. Many independent hackers engage in cybercrime and are often difficult to prosecute due to their ability to effectively hide their identities and locations.

China: Strict Control and Recognition for National Hackers

China views hackers as an integral part of its national cybersecurity strategy. The country imposes strict monitoring of domestic hackers, but it also often rewards those who work to protect domestic networks. Unit 61398, a government-run hacking unit, is responsible for managing foreign cyber threats and protecting national data.

In China, hackers involved in activities that harm other countries rarely face punishment, as long as their actions do not harm national interests. On the contrary, they are often empowered to protect critical data and the country's networks.

Indonesia: Between Punishment and Development Programs

Indonesia takes a different approach to handling hackers. Through the National Cyber and Encryption Agency (BSSN), the Indonesian government has initiated educational programs for young hackers, including providing training and incentives for ethical hackers. Bug Bounty programs are also starting to be implemented in some government institutions and private companies as a step to improve system security.

However, Indonesia also enforces strict laws against illegal hackers. The Information and Electronic Transactions (ITE) Law in Indonesia imposes prison sentences for those involved in cybercrime, ensuring legal consequences for unauthorized hacking.

Differences in Approaches: A Reflection of National Cyber Policies

The differences in how countries handle hackers reflect how each nation views the threats and opportunities in the cyber world. The United States and China are more open to ethical hackers, while Russia tends to use hackers as part of its national security strategy. Indonesia is still developing its approach but continues to balance between nurturing ethical hackers and enforcing laws.