Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
- Cyber terrorists are using AI to launch sophisticated attacks on networks
- A form of collective defence is needed to combat attacks from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea
A recent article in The Telegraph revealed that cyber terrorists are leveraging artificial intelligence to create computer viruses that can disrupt networks within seconds. These attacks, orchestrated by states like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, highlight the urgent need for a Western pact of collective defence to combat the growing threat. Linda Zecher, the head of cyber security firm IronNet, emphasized the importance of sharing anonymized data between Western governments and private companies to protect against these attacks.
According to Zecher, British companies were attacked every 39 seconds in 2023, resulting in an estimated £27 billion loss to the UK economy. The Ukrainian government, a prime target of Russian hackers, faces relentless cyber attacks, as do other entities like the Gulf State of Bahrain. IronNet, known for its innovative approach to security, has contracts with British companies, the US Navy, and is set to work with the Ukrainian government to bolster their defenses against cyber threats.
By anonymously sharing data between their clients when under attack, IronNet can quickly disseminate information to all parties involved, enabling them to prepare for incoming threats. Zecher emphasized the importance of collective defence as a form of insurance against cyber attacks, allowing entities to share information and protect themselves collectively. With up to 2,200 cyber attacks occurring daily, the need for a unified defense strategy is more critical than ever.
Despite the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks, a survey revealed that only a small percentage of British businesses have formal cybersecurity incident management plans in place, indicating a lack of preparedness. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity measures and adopt a collaborative approach to defend against cyber terrorism.
