Top White House Cybersecurity Official Plans to Step Down

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The US’s first national cyber director, Chris Inglis, is planning to step down in the coming months, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Inglis has worked as one of President Joe Biden’s top cybersecurity advisers at a time when the US was struggling to staunch a steady stream of ransomware attacks, on both businesses and government agencies, and persistent intrusions by hackers tied to foreign adversaries such as China and Russia.

Inglis’ intent to resign was first reported by CNN. He is expected to retire after he leaves the office, CNN reported.

Inglis, a former deputy director at the National Security Agency, couldn’t be located for comment.

The role of national cyber director was created by Congress last year to coordinate policy across the government and private sector.

Inglis’ low-key, behind-the-scenes style contrasts with Biden’s two other top cyber officials: Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technology, and Jen Easterly, the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Kemba Walden, a former Microsoft Corp. executive who joined the National Cyber Director’s office in May, will serve as acting director, according to CNN.

Photo: White House National Cyber Director Chris Inglis speaks at the Council of Foreign Relations on April 20, 2022 in Washington, DC. Inglis delivered the keynote remarks during a symposium titled The Geopolitics of Cybersecurity. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)