…Researched and contributed by Henry George.
In a speech in Belfast, UK national security and investment minister Oliver Dowden has warned that Russian hackers, whom he describes as “Russian-aligned,” are regularly attacking computer systems in the UK.
Their goal is to disrupt or destroy critical infrastructure systems, and Dowden predicts that the attempts will only increase.
Dowden notes that almost a third of UK businesses and charities experienced a cyber breach or attack in the past year, highlighting recent attacks on the Royal Mail and the NHS.
According to Dowden, these cyber-attacks pose a significant national security threat, and their impact needs to reflect the severity of the threat.
He views these attacks as an attempt to undermine UK society, as they target citizens, businesses, and democracy itself.
The UK government is concerned that hackers, previously mainly focused on making money, are now driven by a desire to do harm.
Dowden claims that instead of profit or spying, cyber-mercenaries’ primary goal is to disrupt or destroy infrastructure.
He likens these hackers to the Wagner Group fighters operating in Ukraine, noting that they are ideologically motivated and that their extreme tactics make the attacks particularly concerning.
Commentary:
The UK government’s warning of Russian hackers increasingly targeting computer systems is a reminder that cybersecurity threats remain a persistent and evolving danger.
Dowden’s claim that these hackers are driven by a desire to do harm is significant, as it underscores the seriousness of the threat.
The UK is not alone in facing these risks, as cyber-attacks are becoming more common worldwide.
The threat posed by China is also highlighted, with Lindy Cameron warning that the country is on track to becoming the world’s leading technological power.
Cybersecurity will remain a crucial issue in the years to come, and governments, businesses, and individuals must remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to protect against it.
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