Experts warn of escalating cyberattack risks amid global arms race

Experts are increasingly concerned about the growing risk of a catastrophic cyberattack. In a recent discussion on Yle’s morning program, Vili Lehdonvirta, a professor at Aalto University, and Kristo Lehtonen, Director of International Operations at Sitra, addressed the evolving landscape of military technologies and cyber capabilities.

Lehtonen highlighted that the world of cyber warfare is undergoing a troubling arms race, with countries like the United States, Russia, and China, alongside Israel, racing to develop new cyber capabilities. Attacks targeting civilians and essential infrastructure, such as water and electricity utilities, central banks, and hospitals, are becoming more frequent and alarming.

Lehdonvirta emphasized the distinction between cyberattacks, which involve breaches of systems, and the administration of these systems by their creators, which can influence dependent entities. He noted that major technological powers are competing to offer their digital platforms and infrastructure to others for potential leverage, illustrating a deeper geopolitical contest.

Discussion also turned to regulatory approaches to technology. Lehtonen explained that while authoritarian states like China and Russia favor a centrally regulated model, the U.S. and EU lean towards democratic frameworks—the U.S. being more market-driven, while the EU promotes a human-centric approach. He believes that the European value-based model may prove better in the long term.

The debate also encompasses the balance of power between states and corporations, with Lehtonen predicting state dominance in the end. While the EU aims for transparency and individual choice regarding privacy services, there are concerns that this may not adequately address systemic risks, including susceptibility to misinformation and dependency on foreign technologies.