Athens, December 7 – Greece is experiencing a notable surge in cybercrime, exacerbated by advancements in artificial intelligence, according to Michael Bletsas, commander of the National Cyber Security Authority. Bletsas also warned that the nation is actively involved in a broader digital conflict unfolding between East and West.
Greece Caught in the Crosshairs of Digital Warfare
Bletsas highlighted distinct regional differences in the nature of this digital conflict. “In Northeastern Europe, in the Baltic Sea, we have several incidents at the moment which could be clearly characterised as hybrid warfare,” he stated, pointing to more overt forms of aggression in that region.
Unlike the Baltic, Greece has not yet faced physical sabotage, direct infrastructure attacks, or the severing of undersea communication cables. However, the country is far from immune to digital threats.
Cybercrime and Espionage on the Rise
The most visible manifestation of this digital conflict in Greece is cybercrime. “Right now, what is most visible is cybercrime. We have too much activism-cyberactivism, vandalism, if you like-mostly denial-of-service attacks, but which do not leave permanent damage and are quite easily dealt with,” Bletsas explained.
A more concerning trend is the rapid escalation of sophisticated cybercriminal activities. “We have quite a lot of cybercrime, which is increasing more and more because the use of artificial intelligence gives additional capabilities to criminals. Right now, we are seeing a big increase in attacks, and of course, we have a lot of espionage,” he added, underscoring the enhanced capabilities AI provides to malicious actors.
Neutrality: An Impossible Stance for Athens
A critical question facing Greece is whether it can maintain neutrality in the intensifying digital divide between global powers. Bletsas firmly believes this is not an option for Athens.
“Athens has to deal with an additional aggressive neighbour from the east, which the rest of our European partners don’t seem to perceive as so hostile,” he noted, alluding to specific geopolitical tensions that further complicate Greece’s position.
He emphasized the intrinsic link between physical and digital security. “Separating the physical from the digital world is one and the same. The nervous system is more extensive than what we have in the real world. Therefore, we should think of security in the same terms as we think of it in the physical world. Only then will we be safe,” Bletsas asserted, advocating for a holistic approach to national security.
Digital War: A Present Reality, Not a Future Threat
Bletsas’s message was clear: digital warfare is not a looming threat but an ongoing reality. Greece is already an active participant, raising crucial questions about its strategic alliances, national preparedness, and the rules of engagement in this new era of conflict.
The commander’s remarks highlight the urgent need for Greece to bolster its cybersecurity defenses and clarify its stance in a rapidly evolving global digital landscape.
