Australia flags rising cyber threats to critical infrastructure, report says

Cybercriminals target key infrastructure amid geopolitical tensions.

Australia, Cybersecurity, Cyberattacks, Risk assessment, Hackers, Data protection

Australia has raised concerns about the growing number of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, with over 11% of reported incidents last year targeting essential services like electricity, water, transport, and education. The Australian Signals Directorate’s latest report highlights state-sponsored actors and cybercriminals as key threats, employing advanced techniques such as phishing, brute-force attacks, and exploiting public-facing systems.

Defence Minister Richard Marles warned of an increasing focus on critical infrastructure by both criminal groups and foreign governments. Australia has attributed cyber incidents to countries including China, Russia, and Iran, with China allegedly shifting from espionage to disruptive cyber operations. Beijing has denied these accusations, dismissing them as baseless.

The report underscores the evolving cyber landscape and the urgent need for bolstered defences to safeguard Australia’s essential systems.