US Seen as Biggest Threat to Cyber Security of BRICS Nations, Chinese Expert Warns

US poses the biggest threat to the cybersecurity of BRICS nations, because of its "hegemonic behavior" and attempts to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs through the internet.

In a recent expert discussion hosted by the Valdai Club, a leading Chinese expert sounded the alarm on the growing cyber threat posed by the United States to the security of BRICS nations, including China and Russia.

The discussion, held on April 10, 2024, brought together a panel of experts to explore the prospects for international cooperation in the information space and the potential impact of AI on cybersecurity. Among the speakers was Shen Yi, the Center for BRICS Studies Director at Fudan University.

According to Shen Yi, the US now poses the "biggest threat" to the cybersecurity of BRICS countries, as Washington seeks to "win the cyberwar at all costs." He argued that while the US claims to champion the free flow of data in cyberspace, it is "very worried about its own cyber sovereignty" and is actively interfering in the domestic affairs of other countries through the internet.

Shen Yi's comments come against the backdrop of a recent joint resolution between Russia and the US, adopted by the UN General Assembly, on the responsible behavior of states in cyberspace. This resolution was hailed as a significant step towards creating a more secure and stable digital environment.

However, the Chinese expert warned that the US's "hegemonic behavior and hegemonic strategy" in the cyber domain undermine the progress of such international cooperation. He emphasized that the US considers the possibility of disrupting elections through information technologies as a serious threat to its national security, and is consequently trying to ensure its dominance in the information sphere.

"In other words, the US is interfering in the domestic affairs of other countries through cyberspace, through the Internet," Shen Yi concluded.

The discussion also touched on the challenges developing countries face regarding inequality in access to information technology. Participants explored the prospects for greater international cooperation in addressing these challenges and strengthening the global cybersecurity framework.

The Valdai Club, which organized the expert discussion, is a prominent international discussion forum that brings together leading political, business, and academic figures to discuss global affairs. The April 10th event was part of the club's ongoing efforts to examine the evolving landscape of international information security.

As the world continues to grapple with the complex and rapidly evolving threats in the cyber domain, the warning from the Chinese expert serves as a stark reminder of the need for a more collaborative and equitable approach to global cybersecurity.