Dr. Mehdi Snène
Senior Advisor on AI and Digital Transformation
Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology
Cybersecurity has rapidly become one of the most pressing global issues of our time, with cyber-attacks increasing significantly in recent years.
High-profile incidents targeting critical infrastructure and personal data have underscored the vulnerabilities of our interconnected world.
Cyber-attacks threaten personal and international security
Recognising the escalating threats posed by the malicious use of digital technologies, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning: cyber threats undermine not only individual privacy and economic stability but also international peace and security.
As cyber-attacks grow in sophistication, the imperative for a unified global response has never been more urgent. The UN advocates for innovative solutions that blend cutting-edge technology with a strong emphasis on collective action, capacity-building and the development of global approaches to address the multifaceted dangers we face.
How cybercrime is changing rapidly
To fully grasp the urgency of this response, it is important to recognise how cybersecurity threats have evolved over time. Initially, efforts focused on managing isolated cyber incidents — addressing software breaches and data leaks. However, as cybercrime and organised criminal activities like cyber extortion became more prevalent, the challenge intensified.
As cyber-attacks grow in sophistication, the imperative for a unified global response has never been more urgent.
Now, threats have escalated to cyberterrorism, where malicious actors target critical infrastructure and sensitive data. These actions pose severe risks to national security, public safety and democracy by undermining electoral processes.
Examples of AI-driven cyber-threats
Compounding these challenges is the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). AI’s ability to process vast amounts of information swiftly and generate human-like content has introduced new dimensions to cybersecurity threats. Sophisticated algorithms can automate and enhance cyber-attacks, making them more effective and harder to detect.
For example, AI-driven phishing schemes create personalised messages that convincingly mimic legitimate communications, increasing the likelihood of successful breaches. The rise of deepfake technology enables the creation of realistic yet fraudulent audio and video content, which can spread misinformation, manipulate public opinion and undermine trust in institutions. Moreover, increased computing capacity empowers malicious actors to execute more complex and widespread attacks, such as AI-powered malware that adapts and evolves to bypass security measures.
Intensifying global cybersecurity
This technological evolution not only amplifies existing threats but also introduces novel ones, multiplying the types and nature of attacks we must contend with. Consequently, the convergence of these factors intensifies the pressure on global cybersecurity efforts, highlighting the critical need for collaborative strategies and shared solutions to safeguard our digital future.
