Hey pals, let’s talk about security. Apparently, at a meeting, everyone agreed that international law applies in cyberspace. Everyone except Russia, of course. Shocking, right? It’s like they’re not even trying to be diplomatic anymore.

So, fast forward eight months, and what do we have? A full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia. They violated every rule in the book. Remember those predictions about a cyber-Armageddon being the next big war? Well, Russia decided to bring back good old-fashioned conventional war instead. I mean, did they forget about technology or something?

Now, everyone is focused on conventional war, which makes sense. The aggressor needs to be defeated on the battlefield. But here’s the thing: Russia is also waging an energy war, an information war, and a cyberwar. It’s like they’re trying to win on multiple fronts. Democracies need to step up their game and defend themselves in all areas. We need to hold the line and make sure technology works for, not against, democratic societies. So, listen up, folks. There are four things we need to do.

First, we need to realize that cyber-warfare is now a regular part of warfare. Before Russia’s tanks rolled over into Ukraine, they disrupted Ukraine’s access to communication satellites. Their goal was to leave the Ukrainian armed forces without one of their communication lines. Plus, it had a broader effect on broadband services that control the remote monitoring of wind turbines in Germany. Sneaky, right?

Second, a well-protected digital infrastructure is essential. Ukraine built up cyber resilience with help from Estonia and others. Ukraine has taught us some important lessons. Using apps like Diia, the Ukrainian government has shown how technology can help taxes be paid, public services remain available, and data is kept secure, even during war. We need to follow their lead.

Third, there’s still a sense that bad actors can do whatever they want in cyberspace. Think again, friends. Major cyber-attacks being attributed to foreign governments have not led to a change in behavior. That’s a problem. Russia continues to use so-called “DDoS diplomacy” to bombard websites with traffic to send political signals and disrupt services beyond Ukraine. We need to be better prepared.

Finally, the private sector has transformed its role during this war. Companies like Palo Alto Networks and Amazon Web Services have provided much-needed services and security measures for Ukrainians. Co-operation with companies like Microsoft and cyber-security specialists Mandiant has been crucial. Kudos to them!

Now, what should democratic nations do? First, we need to prepare for cyber-warfare to continue even after conventional war ends. We need to invest appropriately in cybersecurity. Second, we need to step up our efforts in cyber capacity-building. Closing the digital divide must go hand in hand with building up cyber-resilience. Third, we must ensure accountability, including in cyberspace. And finally, we must build connections beyond current institutional limitations. Let’s set standards with those we can trust.

Tyrannies like Russia will keep trying to turn technology into a tool of oppression and a means to destabilize free societies. But, we won’t let that happen. Our job is to prevent it, help Ukraine win the war, and build solid alliances. Impunity should not prevail in any sphere, and cyberspace is no exception.

Serious News: economist