Hacking – a blooming industry!

24th May 2023

Cyber experts warn of rising threat from irresponsible use of commercial hacking tools over the next 5 years

A recent report, released by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – a part of GCHQ – warns that the proliferation of cyber tools and services is already lowering the barrier to entry for state and non-state actors, transforming the threats that organisations and individuals face.

It highlights how over the past decade more than 80 countries have purchased cyber intrusion software, with some states almost certainly having irresponsibly used this to target journalists, human rights activists, political dissidents and opponents and foreign government officials.

The marketplace for commercial hacking tools and services will almost certainly expand, leading to more victims of cyber attacks and a more unpredictable threat landscape, the UK’s cyber experts have warned.

There is expected to be in growing demand globally for spyware, hackers for hire and access to other cyber capabilities, which will almost certainly lead to an increased threat to a wide range of industries, it is predicted.

At the CyberUK Conference last month, NCSC's Director Jonathon Ellison said:

“Over the next five years, the proliferation of cyber tools and services will have a profound impact on the threat landscape, as more state and non-state actors obtain capabilities and intelligence not previously available to them.

“Our new assessment highlights that the threat will not only become greater but also less predictable as more hackers for hire are tasked with going after a wider range of targets and off-the-shelf products and exploits lower the barrier to entry for all.

“To maintain safety in cyberspace it is crucial these capabilities are managed with a responsible, proportionate and legally sound approach and working with international partners, the UK is determined to address this rising challenge.”

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