Could cyber attack alert trigger nuclear war between UK and Russia
An expert has given his verdict as to whether hackers could trigger a full-on nuclear conflict between Russia and the West. Authorities in Ukraine and Moscow said their emergency alert mobile apps have been targeted by cyberattacks, with users in Ukraine receiving false warnings of an imminent nuclear threat. Dr. Maxim Starchak, an independent expert on Russian nuclear policy, strategic weapons and defence industry and fellow at the Centre for International and Defence Policy of the Queen’s University in Canada, told the Express: "The risks exist, but they are minimal. Cyber intrusion into nuclear command and control systems is entirely conceivable."
TL;DR
- Cyberattacks on emergency alert apps have occurred, with false nuclear threat warnings issued in Ukraine.
- While cyber intrusion into nuclear command and control systems is conceivable, the risk of triggering nuclear conflict is considered minimal but increases during conflict escalation.
- Multiple systems, including radar, and political leadership are involved in the decision-making process for retaliatory nuclear strikes, providing safeguards against false alarms.
- A devastating cyberattack on critical national infrastructure could be a precursor to a nuclear attack, according to Professor Anthony Glees.
- The UK has a 'no first strike' nuclear policy, but a significant cyberattack could replicate the effects of a 'theatre' nuclear strike.
- NATO nations should consider a 'like-for-like' response to cyberattacks, involving massive cyber counterattacks on the aggressor.
- Experts suggest disabling Russia's critical national cyber infrastructure as a deterrent and a lesson.
- The interpretation and application of Article Five of NATO regarding responses to attacks are discussed, with allies having discretion in their response.