It is rare for the key topics typically covered in this blog — cybercrime and computer security — to be wielded as talking points by a major presidential candidate. But in a foreign policy speech last week, presumptive Republican Party presidential nominee John McCain cited cyber attacks from Russia as a reason for strengthening NATO and for excluding Russia from the Group of Eight. The reference to cyber attacks came in remarks McCain made at the Los Angeles World Affairs Council, wherein he argued that the future of the transatlantic relationship lies in confronting the challenges of the 21st century worldwide, such as “developing a common energy policy, creating a transatlantic common market tying our economies more closely together, addressing the dangers posed by a revanchist Russia, and institutionalizing our cooperation on issues such as climate change, foreign assistance, and democracy promotion.” McCain continued: “We should start by ensuring that