If It's Smart, It's Vulnerable

Technology, Espionage, and Warfare Online

Espionage means gathering information.

Information was once physical and printed on paper but is now virtual. This has led to lasting changes in the work of intelligence organizations. Technology is changing relationships between the superpowers, while altering the nature of conflicts and the way we wage war.

Cyberweapons are effective, affordable, and deniable, which means that they are sure to be used in all future wars.

Cyberweapons

Cyber warfare is a complicated term, whose definition is still a subject of debate at academic conferences. Defining cyberweapons is easier: I define a cyberweapon as malicious software developed by a state actor and used for attacking another party. Cyberweapons may be used in warfare, such as the Russian–Ukrainian conflict since 2015, but war is not a requirement: they can also be used for espionage and sabotage.

Digitalization has transformed intelligence and espionage activities. Information has moved from texts and diagrams on paper to data stored on computers and information networks. Stealing, copying, or photographing information used to require the personal presence of the spy, but we can now engage in espionage or intelligence activities from across the world. There has also been a revolution in terms of data volumes. In just a few moments, spies can transfer data volumes that would take several trucks to move if printed out. Organizations tend to spot whenever a truckload of documents ...