Page 163 - Cyber Defense eMagazine December 2023

Government Communications: The Threats

By Nicole Allen, Marketing Manager at Salt Communications

In an age where information flows freely and rapidly, government communications have never been more
vulnerable. The digital age has ushered in a revolution in how governments communicate, both internally
and with the public. While this transformation has brought about unparalleled transparency, it has also
exposed governments to an array of threats that can jeopardise national security, privacy, and public
trust.

So, let's delve into the threats that government communications face:

1. Cyberattacks:

One of the most prominent threats governments face today is cyberattacks.

State-sponsored cyberattacks are a significant concern. These attacks often involve well-funded and
highly skilled hackers. In 2021, the U.S. government attributed several high-profile cyberattacks to state
actors, including the SolarWinds supply chain attack, which affected numerous federal agencies and
private companies. Hackers, whether state-sponsored or independent, target government systems to
steal classified information, disrupt critical services, or compromise sensitive data. The consequences of
a successful cyberattack can be catastrophic, potentially affecting national defence, infrastructure, and
the economy.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – December 2023 Edition 163
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