Use of cyber techniques to steal secrets, intellectual property, or sensitive information for intelligence purposes.
Cyber espionage uses cyber intrusions to steal sensitive information—state secrets, intellectual property, business intelligence, or personal data—for political, military, or economic advantage. Nation-states conduct cyber espionage against other governments, defence contractors, and strategic industries. Corporate espionage targets competitors' trade secrets. Cyber espionage campaigns are typically sophisticated, persistent, and stealthy, aiming to maintain long-term access for ongoing intelligence collection.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
Organisations in defence, critical infrastructure, advanced technology, or handling sensitive government information face cyber espionage risk. Protection requires comprehensive security and awareness of nation-state threats.