Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus faces an increased threat of cyberattacks due to geopolitical tensions and its role as president of the European Council until the end of June, MPs heard on Monday. The warning was delivered during House finance committee discussions on the Digital Security Authority’s budget.
Daily increase in cyberattacks
Digital Security Authority Director Antonis Antoniades said Cyprus was going through a “difficult period” as cyberattacks had risen in frequency and become a daily phenomenon. He said the attacks were no longer limited to financial motives but were linked to geostrategic interests, with the involvement of third countries and an increased risk of losing sensitive information, exacerbated by Cyprus’ EU presidency.
Operational readiness and inter-agency cooperation
Antoniades said the authority was on constant operational alert and that cybersecurity required a team effort, calling for close cooperation with the defence and justice ministries as well as other services and departments.
EU standing and remaining gaps
He said Cyprus was among the five best countries in the European Union in terms of its legislative framework for cybersecurity, but lagged behind in other areas. He added that, despite pressure, Cyprus was above the European average in cybersecurity for crucial infrastructure, while noting that the country was not fully fortified and that there was room for improvement.
Private sector and state vulnerabilities
Antoniades said the private sector was better protected than certain state departments, despite progress recorded. MPs also heard about cases in which ransom was demanded from state departments under attack.
Ransom policy and payments
Antoniades said the policy was not to succumb to ransom demands, but that in some cases money had been paid.
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