Cyberpower and Weaponization of Cyber Proxies

Abstract

The escalated development of cyberspace reveals several new threats in human, domestic and international security among others. The participating actors, as well as the interaction among them, can be extremely challenging. In conventional domains we have noticed the well-established presence of states, as the primary actors with power, capabilities, and resources. What is interesting about cyberspace is the active participation of non-state actors and their role in assisting states to project even more power. Examining cyber proxies, including the benefits and risks that may result from their cooperation with states, and the different forms of relationship between states and proxies, will be an asset to the comprehensive understanding of cyberspace overall. A conceptualization of ‘state-proxy’ relationships can be an efficient tool for political decision-makers, as well as a solid guideline for future research in aspects regarding cyber proxies and cyberspace.