The recent arrest of a U.S. Army soldier accused of extorting AT&T and Verizon highlights a troubling misallocation of resources by law enforcement, especially when juxtaposed against critical nation-state cyber threats. While prosecuting such crimes is necessary, it diverts attention from larger systemic vulnerabilities, such as the recent breach of the U.S. Treasury Department and nine major American telecommunications companies by Chinese state actors. These breaches granted access to sensitive communications and revealed the glaring weaknesses in American cybersecurity infrastructure. Corporations like AT&T and Verizon, entrusted with protecting sensitive data, have often failed to implement robust defenses, leaving systems exposed to exploitation and forcing law enforcement into a reactive cleanup role.<p>This misdirected focus is particularly concerning given the escalating geopolitical tensions and the strategic importance of cybersecurity in national defense. Nation-state actors like China are leveraging advanced capabilities to outpace U.S. defenses, eroding trust in American institutions and diminishing global standing. With the potential for conflict over Taiwan and other critical flashpoints, resources spent on low-value cybercrime cases should instead fortify critical infrastructure and counter nation-state threats. A proactive approach is essential to prevent breaches, hold corporations accountable, and ensure the U.S. remains resilient in an increasingly volatile cyber landscape.