Defence Minister Peter Dutton has warned that Australia will respond to any cyberattacks against its critical infrastructure “in kind” as Aussie businesses and critical infrastructure become potential targets for Russian cyber attacks.
Minister Dutton states that local officials are monitoring malicious cyber activity on a daily basis as Australia has become a likely target for Russian actors following the country’s offer to aid and support Ukraine.
Despite no specific cyberattacks being identified almost a month after Russia’s invasion, Minister Dutton says there are concerns Australia would become collateral damage in attacks against foreign countries or institutions.
“Where there’s malware that goes out or attacks that might be out on a Microsoft system, for example, that will impact on businesses and the Australian government and Australian households as well,” he said.
“But we would anticipate those threats and we’re monitoring it very closely.”
Australia continues to work with its international partners, namely the United Kingdom and the United States, to share intelligence and information and to counter any Russian cyber attacks against Australian industries or organisations.
Minister Dutton’s remarks came as he officially opened the new Australian Signals Directorate facility in Canberra.
The opening of the new ASD facility marks the intelligence agency’s 75th anniversary, bringing together experts, federal police, the defence force and various department officials to enhance cyber defence and intelligence.
Hijacked Ukrainian government websites were also used to spread disinformation, Minister Dutton said as he raised concerns about foreign interference.
Russia, North Korea, Iran and China have been publicly named by Australia since 2017 as having launched malicious cyber activities.
“The conflict in Ukraine is testimony to how cyber is changing the nature of warfare and countries need to prepare for this change,” he said.
“The ramifications of a cyberattack can be considerable. Disruption or shutdown of vital services. Loss of revenue or the collapse of businesses. Injury or loss of life.”
Minister Dutton said Australia will continue to publicly attribute and expose attacks alongside allies and partners as a form of deterrence.
“Shining all our lights on these pernicious cyber activities can help deter them and also expose the true intent of the perpetrator,” he said.
With AAP