As the world becomes digital and connected, it’s facing a whole new threat. These include cyber attacks by hackers in other countries, as well as viruses that spread from computer to computer. International cybersecurity jobs require to safeguard computer systems from electronic threats. In these jobs, employees may work from their homes however, they may have to they travel to other offices, or even out of the country when conducting research or responding to threats.
To address the multiple dimensions of cyber-security across the globe global security, international cooperation is required. The threat is way too vast for one financial institution, government, or tech company to manage by themselves. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the number of cyberattacks that target banks and other financial institutions. These attacks affect the integrity of supply chains across the globe and undermine confidence in the banking system.
Cyberattacks targeted at high-income countries receive the most attention however, attackers also target smaller targets within low- and middle-income countries. As these countries leapfrog to digital financial services, such as mobile money networks creating a lucrative environment for hackers. In addition, a growing number of middle- and low-income countries are embracing biometrics, which creates more opportunities for identity theft.
One of the biggest challenges in international cyber security is determining the way in which international law is applicable to the cyber realm. The question of whether existing international law applies to cyberspace has not yet been resolved, despite the fact that the majority of states and international organisations that make up the Group of Eight (G8) affirm that it does.
The question of whether or not essential international legal regimes, such as sovereignty and non-interference can be applied to cyberspace is a highly debated topic. There is also a lingering question about the application of the principle of proportionality to apply to international cyber attacks.
DHS has led a number diplomatic initiatives across the world in the last decade to help tackle the issues of cyber security on a global scale. The DHS also has supported high-level U.S. nation dialogues on cyberspace and created norms for responsible behavior by states. In addition, through 86 International attache and Department of State liaison offices all over the world, DHS works closely with host governments and embassy staff to discuss cybersecurity issues.
International cybersecurity activities are also focused on the need to defend and promote human rights while battling violent extremism. The CCIPS has published a range of reports and other materials to support this, including an annual report as well as white papers and transcripts of congressional testimonies. Additionally, the CCIPS hosts a Global Cyber Threat Intelligence Exchange that provides real-time and actionable threat information to network operators and other industry stakeholders across the world. The CCIPS is an international, non-profit organization that tracks cyber threats, and also aids the private sector and law enforcement agencies in preventing and investigating criminal acts involving intellectual property and cybercrime. For more information, please visit the CCIPS Documents and Reports page.