Of course, encryption tools also need to be easier to use. Popular tools like PGP (pretty good privacy) and Tor are incredibly difficult to install and use for the less technically inclined. The ACLU's Ben Wizner, who was moderating the conversation, said that when Tor is the best choice for the "average user" to protect themselves "we've failed."

The second essential ingredient is public oversight of our spy agencies and government. He singled out Michael Hayden and Keith Alexander as having weakened America's cyber defenses during their tenure at the NSA by shifting the agency's priority to "offensive" operations. The focus on data collection meant has meant leaving open backdoors and spreading vulnerabilities. Networks and services have been designed with surveillance in mind under their watch, which makes these platforms vulnerable to hackers and criminals, as well as governments.

You can watch the entire conversation below.