NATO warns about malicious cyber activities

Following an increased number of cyber-attacks against critical infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular healthcare services, hospitals and research institutes, the North Atlantic Council of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has issued a statement concerning malicious cyber activities. The statement reiterates the commitment of NATO partners to protect their critical infrastructure, build resilience and boost cyber defences, including through the full implementation of NATO’s Cyber Defence Pledge. It also reminds that NATO is ‘determined to employ the full range of capabilities, including cyber, to deter, defend against and counter the full spectrum of cyber threats’. Importantly, the statement invites all states to further promote and uphold voluntary norms of responsible state behaviour.