Tag Archive for: strengthening

Strengthening National Security


In today’s interconnected world, where information flows freely through digital channels, the threat of terrorism has evolved to encompass the digital realm. As terrorists increasingly exploit the internet for communication, recruitment, and the execution of their nefarious activities, the role of cybersecurity in safeguarding national security has never been more critical. In this in-depth analysis, we will explore the intricate relationship between cybersecurity and counterterrorism efforts, emphasizing how cybersecurity measures can be employed to protect against acts of terror and strengthen the foundations of national security.

The Digital Battlefield

The dawn of the 21st century brought with it a new battleground in the form of cyberspace. Traditional warfare now shares the stage with cyber warfare, and terrorist organizations have seized this opportunity to extend their reach and capabilities. With access to an array of digital tools and the ability to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, these groups pose a significant threat to national security. Therefore, it has become paramount to adopt robust cybersecurity measures to protect against terrorist activities.

Cyber Threats from Terrorist Organizations

Terrorist groups have shown remarkable adaptability when it comes to using digital platforms to advance their objectives. They exploit the dark web for anonymous communication, radicalization, recruitment, and fundraising. Furthermore, they have displayed their ability to launch cyberattacks against critical infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation systems, thus posing a significant danger to public safety.
It is essential for governments and cybersecurity experts to recognize these evolving tactics and invest in proactive measures to counteract them. Cybersecurity strategies must adapt to the changing landscape of terrorism in the digital age.

 

Intelligence Gathering and Analysis

One of the primary ways in which cybersecurity aids in counterterrorism efforts is through intelligence gathering and analysis. In an era where almost all information is stored digitally, terrorists leave behind digital footprints that can be tracked, analyzed, and…

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BSidesZG 2023: Strengthening the infosec community in Croatia’s capital


In March 2023, Zagreb will be added to the (already long) list of cities where information security professionals and enthusiasts can share their knowledge with peers at a Security BSides conference. We’ve talked with BSidesZG organizer Ante Jurjevic to find out what’s in store for those who attend.

BSidesZG 2023

Why did you start BSidesZG? What is your vision for the first edition of this community event?

Personally, I have a strong urge to share knowledge and provide a platform for others to share my enthusiasm for cybersecurity.

For those unfamiliar with BSides, it is a community-driven framework for building events for and by information security community members. It creates opportunities for individuals to present and participate in an intimate atmosphere that encourages collaboration. On top of that, BSidesZagreb is nonprofit and free to attend.

The primary goal of the event is to present high-quality content. Even now, close to the CFP deadline, we already have excellent submissions with high prospects. We hope to get to know the community and see what they would like to hear and experience at such events so that this could be the first of many BSides in Zagreb.

Tell us more about this first edition – where is it taking place? What can attendees expect? How can they get tickets?

SRCE has been a historical place for IT in Croatia for over half a century. We had our first programming courses in 1972 for FORTRAN, COBOL, BASIC and Pascal, the first IT conference about UNIVAC 1110 and we established a lot of new technologies like the first Internet connection in Croatia in 1992. It was a logical choice to organize the first Zagreb BSides at a venue with such rich history.

Attendees can expect a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with lots talks and opportunities to engage in conversation with lecturers and other attendees.
Submissions for attendees are open. Attendees will be randomly picked from the pool of applicants and a confirmation e-mail will follow. Good luck!

Your call for papers is ending soon. What type of content has been submitted? What are you still hoping to get?

The call for papers ends on the 3rd of February and we already have a lot of exciting topics. A new hot…

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Joint Statement of the U.S.-Japan Economic Policy Consultative Committee: Strengthening Economic Security and the Rules-Based Order


The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Japan on the occasion of the inaugural ministerial meeting of the U.S.-Japan Economic Policy Consultative Committee.

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo co-hosted Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs HAYASHI Yoshimasa and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry HAGIUDA Koichi for the inaugural ministerial meeting of the U.S.-Japan Economic Policy Consultative Committee (EPCC) on July 29, 2022. The Ministers affirmed their shared resolve to present a positive economic vision that highlights the benefits of a rules-based international economic order and emphasized the need to make our economies more competitive and resilient.

The Ministers considered the complex global economic context that has produced increased levels of risk and uncertainty for all. They noted recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic remains incomplete, and the pandemic has contributed to various economic challenges including supply chain disruptions, increasing commodity prices, and greater inequalities, many of which have disproportionately impacted historically underserved communities. The Ministers strongly condemned Russia’s brutal, unprovoked, and unjustified aggression against Ukraine and shared the view that it has exacerbated such challenges and undermined energy and food security around the world. The Ministers affirmed the need to address the climate crisis in the face of complications due to energy insecurity.

The Ministers also recognized the pandemic has significantly altered social and economic life through accelerated adoption of various technologies, including digital transformation, providing new opportunities as well as challenges. They noted technological innovation – including in critical and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and renewable and circular technologies – presents transformative potential, as well as risks for our economies if abused. The Ministers committed to continue taking steps to realize a full and sustainable recovery from the pandemic and enhance…

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Africa Security Brief No. 41: Strengthening Sahelian Counterinsurgency Strategy – Mali


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By Michael Shurkin
July 25, 2022

Adapting Sahelian force structures to lighter, more mobile, and integrated units will better support the population-centric COIN practices needed to reverse the escalating trajectory of violent extremist attacks.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced a near uninterrupted expansion in militant Islamist violence over the past decade, underscoring the need for an alternative security strategy. Central to this is the recognition that these violent extremist groups employ irregular tactics and operate as local insurgencies, requiring a sustained counterinsurgency campaign.

  • Elevating the effectiveness of Sahelian forces will require a more integrated, mobile, and population-centric force structure bolstered by enhanced logistical and air support capabilities.

  • Building positive relations with local populations is not just a question of morality or legitimacy but also an essential means of weakening support to insurgents.

Militant Islamist violence in the Sahel is accelerating faster than in any other region in Africa. After nearly a decade of conflict, violent events in the Sahel (specifically Burkina Faso, Mali, and western Niger) are surging—with a 140-percent increase since 2020 and no signs of abatement. Militant Islamist group violence against civilians in the Sahel represents 60 percent of all such violence in Africa and is projected to increase by more than 40 percent in 2022.1 This uninterrupted escalation of violence has displaced more than 2.5 million people and is on pace to kill more than 8,000 individuals in 2022 (see Figure 1 in the PDF).

Government control over the vast rugged territory has diminished over the years, revealing an inability to sustain pressure on militant Islamist groups and to provide security for communities. Sahelian security forces have suffered heavy losses in the conflict. Militants have successfully targeted security and defense forces in their attacks throughout Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Superior mobility and intelligence capabilities have allowed the militant groups to overrun static military bases, resulting in hundreds of casualties among armed forces….

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