This post is also available in:
עברית (Hebrew)
As cyberattacks continue to grow in frequency and sophistication, experts are highlighting the increasing vulnerability of governments and military sectors. Despite the escalating financial damage caused by cybercrime, cybersecurity does not receive sufficient funding in comparison to traditional defense spending, raising concerns over national security in an increasingly digital world.
A new report by cybersecurity firm Group-IB reveals a sharp rise in Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) attacks, which have increased by 58%. These cyberattacks are carried out by highly skilled actors, often state-sponsored, with the aim of infiltrating government and military systems. The data gathered from these intrusions can be used for espionage, cyber warfare, or disrupting key operations. Governmental and military sectors are the most affected, with APT attacks in these areas accounting for 15.5% of all such incidents. Israel is the second-most attacked country, with 3% of APTs, according to Group-IB.
APT attacks are particularly damaging due to the highly sensitive nature of the information these sectors handle, from national security data to critical infrastructure plans. As geopolitical tensions rise globally, state-sponsored hackers have intensified their efforts in Europe and the Middle East, targeting defense and government institutions in these regions.
According to Group-IB CEO Dmitry Volkov’s statement to Cybernews, the growing influence of hacktivism, often aligned with state-sponsored goals, has also contributed to the increase in attacks on critical infrastructure, further complicating efforts to defend national assets. Hacktivists typically aim to disrupt government systems, collect information, or cause chaos in a politically motivated manner.
Volkov argues that as cyber threats grow, nations must prioritize cybersecurity as a core component of national defense. While awareness is rising, cybersecurity still lags in funding and development when compared to traditional military capabilities.
To effectively combat the growing cyber threat, it is crucial for governments to not only increase investment in cybersecurity infrastructure but also prioritize collaboration across borders. Cyber warfare is no longer a distant concern; it is a present-day challenge that demands urgent action. Strengthening cyber defense frameworks, promoting innovation in digital security, and enhancing global cooperation will be key to ensuring that nations are prepared for the evolving threats in the digital age. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, securing critical digital assets has become just as important as protecting physical borders.
