Public administration

In the Russian-Ukraine war, why do cyberattacks on the Public administration sector matter?

Cyberattacks on the public administration sector threaten e-government activities, the protection of sensitive government and personal data, as well as the functioning of services. Public administration in Ukraine, Russia and in other countries has been the target of cyberattacks linked to the conflict. Due to the sector’s direct connection with government entities the sector has been a specific target of disruptive attacks in Ukraine in the lead up to the invasion and in the ongoing conflict. On the other hand, government institutions in Russia have also been subject to various types of attacks. The conflict has also seen disruptive attacks impacting public administration and the government websites of countries who have demonstrated support to Ukraine through the application of sanctions and/or the supply of military aid.

What types of attacks have been documented against the sector?

What impact do these attacks have on people?

Attacks on the public administration including national and local government institutions have an impact on the civilian population both through the impact on access to key public services such as health, social services, migration, education, and for timely and reliable information. Cyberattacks during the conflict have played a role in trying to undermine trust and confidence in state institutions and trying to control the information space, through the spread of disinformation and propaganda, based on geopolitical objectives.

What are the primary digital impacts observed on the sector by country?