Eight Major U.S. Communications Companies Unite to Boost Cybersecurity Efforts through C2 ISAC

Eight Major Companies Establish C2 ISAC for Enhanced Cybersecurity

In a significant step toward fortifying cybersecurity within the communications sector, eight of the leading U.S. communications firms—AT&T, Charter, Comcast, Cox, Lumen Technologies, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Zayo—have joined forces to establish the Communications Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Analysis Center, better known as C2 ISAC. This newly formed non-profit organization aims to enhance collaboration and streamline defenses against the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats facing the industry.

Addressing the Challenge of Evolving Threats

The need for C2 ISAC has never been greater, as cyber threats have become more complex and unpredictable, often leveraging advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. The founders recognized that to effectively combat these risks, the sector's approach to cybersecurity must evolve. The initiative emphasizes the value of rapid and actionable information sharing among companies, ensuring that vulnerabilities can be addressed promptly and efficiently.

Building on a Legacy of Collaboration

C2 ISAC builds upon nearly four decades of public-private partnerships aimed at enhancing the resilience of critical communications infrastructures. Since its establishment in 1984, the National Coordinating Center for Communications (COMM-ISAC) has played a vital role in promoting collaboration between government entities and private-sector communication and IT organizations. C2 ISAC seeks to continue this tradition by fostering a secure environment for sharing vital information among its members.

A Unified Front Against Cyber Threats

Amid a landscape rife with persistent threats targeting networks and consumers alike, the telecommunications industry understands the importance of solidly unified defenses. No single organization can claim complete visibility over all potential risks, making collective effort imperative. By pooling resources, expertise, and intelligence, C2 ISAC will empower its members to better identify, anticipate, and respond to cyber threats with greater agility and effectiveness.

This center will function as a trusted environment where security experts can freely exchange insights, information, and coordinated strategies to bolster defenses and enhance the robustness of the nation’s critical communication frameworks.

Leadership and Governance

Valerie Moon has been appointed as the executive director of C2 ISAC. With robust experience in the fields of cybersecurity and public-private collaboration, her leadership will be crucial in steering this initiative towards success. She has held significant roles at various national security agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI.

Rich Baich, who will serve as the inaugural chairperson of the C2 ISAC board, underscored the urgency of the initiative: “Cybersecurity threats are more sophisticated and persistent than ever,” he stated, expressing confidence in the organization’s capacity to foster collaboration across the communications sector.

Operational Timeline and Future Goals

The founding members, constituting the initial Board of Directors, will include chief information security officers from each of the eight companies. Valerie Moon will handle the day-to-day operations, focusing on establishing effective strategies to enhance the resilience of member organizations like hers.

“The C2 ISAC will not only strengthen individual member companies but will also support the resilience of the country’s vital communications infrastructure,” Moon stated, expressing enthusiasm for the road ahead.

C2 ISAC is set to officially commence operations in June, marking a new chapter in collaborative cybersecurity efforts within the telecommunications sector and signifying a proactive approach to managing and mitigating cyber risks well into the future.