ITU Telecom World 2009 In Review 2009 Geneva 5-9 October SEC.5 INTERCONNECTED AND VULNERABLE: THE WEAKEST LINK IN CYBERSECURITY The recent financial crisis has demonstrated to what extent the world is inter-connected, integrated and interdependent. Continuous international transac-tions amongst individuals, companies and nations, and the constant flow of people and money around the world, bring not only positive economic benefits but also increased cyber-vulnerability. The cybersecurity net we have devel-oped complete with firewalls, anti-spy and anti-virus software, is only as strong as the weakest link in the chain. How can we develop a truly global approach? How can developed countries and corporations contribute to the “cyberse-curization” of developing countries who do not have the means or the exper-tise to implement responsible and adequate cybersecurity programs? Key questions: –– How can we develop a truly global approach? –– How can developed countries and corporations contribute to the “cybersecurization”of developing countries, which may not have the means of expertise to implement adequate cybersecurity programs? –– What about the role of the individual? Summary of debate Mr Udotai launched the debate with an interesting statement about Nigeria, indicating that while most of the attacks from Nigeria used to be directed out-side, more and more are now internal attacks which have raised the urgency of increasing cyber-security as a national priority. Jody Westby strongly argued that the weakest link in cyber-security is the lacking legal framework to deal with cyber-crime and attacks. Reflecting on the “laws of armed conflict”, the only remotely relevant international framework which could be adapted to deal with cyber-attacks, Westby made clear that these laws can’t apply to an internet world where no-one knows who the at-tacker is and attacks on civilian properties could be deemed attacks on na-tional interest. There needs to be an international agreement for cyber-space. 132 Forum Summary Report