“The U.S. boasts a ‘large toolbox’ to choose solutions from in responding to cyber attacks, explained Painter. They include, he said, but are not limited to: diplomatic outreach, economic sanctions, law enforcement oversight, offensive cyber operations and a military strike. Additionally, there may be a strategic advantage to consider when choosing whether or not to publicly disclosing the attribution of an attack — as was the case following the now historic Sony hack, orchestrated by North Korea. “
Source: Ex-NSA chief: Responding to cyberattacks is a government responsibility