Much larger thefts than this in $USD happen pretty frequently, you just don't hear about them that much. I don't know how the government could guarantee any credibility (Edit: beyond already existing measures, this was theft so if the thief is caught there is punishment available and if Linode was negligent they might also be liable)--the stability is inherent in the network. All the BTC thefts have been to improper security measures taken by the owner(s) and in some cases a misplaced trust in the security of others. Anyone or group with over 1000 BTC in one place should be taking way more security precautions than these guys.