Paris 2024 Olympics face rising cyber risks, analysts say

Cybersecurity analysts are warning of escalating cyber threats targeting the Paris 2024 Olympics. FortiGuard Labs reports a significant surge in dark web activity targeting France, with an 80-90% increase from late 2023 to mid-2024. These threats are becoming more sophisticated, posing risks to attendees and organisers.

A significant concern is the proliferation of phishing kits designed for the Olympics in France, enabling cybercriminals to deceive users into divulging personal information or downloading malware. Fake ticketing platforms and fraudulent merchandise websites also present financial risks.

Hacktivist groups, particularly from Russia and Belarus, are exploiting the event’s international prominence to disrupt the Olympics for political purposes. Experts warn that these attacks could provoke real-world violence or disrupt the Games and democratic processes in France.

As the Olympics approach, experts emphasise the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Organisations should implement advanced encryption, stringent access controls, regular security audits, end point protection, caution with public Wi-Fi, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).