tech
Russia is targeting UK’s infrastructure and democracy, GCHQ head to say
Anne Keast-Butler will also warn of narrowing window to stay ahead of China in ‘new era of radical uncertainty’
TL;DR
- Russia is relentlessly targeting UK's critical infrastructure, democratic processes, supply chains, and public trust.
- China is a science and tech superpower, and there is a narrowing window for the UK and allies to stay ahead of its development, especially in artificial intelligence.
- The UK faces a 'new era of radical uncertainty' with a high risk of miscalculation due to persistent cyber-attacks from Russia, China, and Iran.
- GCHQ is working to fend off cyber-attacks and counter sabotage and assassination attempts.
- Russia has conducted sabotage and disruption campaigns against the UK and allies during the Ukraine war, including placing firebombs in parcels.
- Britain has been targeting Russia-linked cryptocurrency platforms, banks, and financial networks used to bypass sanctions.
- Information and technology are increasingly weaponized by Russia and others, leading some spy chiefs to warn the UK is in a 'space between peace and war'.