Espionage

Covert Action as Hybrid Warfare—Clarifying the Semantics

Abstract:

In the era of labels, distinguishing between constructs is becoming increasingly difficult. Covert action and hybrid warfare are two constructs suffering from this predicament. The question is whether covert action is hybrid warfare, vis-a-versa, or whether one construct eclipsed the other. In an era where covert action has become problematic from an international relations perspective, is this predicament being resolved by labelling covert action as hybrid warfare? This article explores the semantics and nuances of these two constructs to clarify their relative utility. The paper argues that covert action is subordinate to hybrid warfare. Covert action forms part of a synchronized line of effort within a broader hybrid warfare campaign, when planned effectively against a target and target audience(s).

Published In

Volume 22, Issue 3

Non-State Cyber Power in ONG

ABSTRACT

The revelation of long-standing espionage operations by state actors against private entities over the past decade speaks to an application of cyber capabilities that shifts the focus from direct and ancillary use in high-intensity confrontations to indirect supply- chain attacks and economic warfare. By observing recent cyber-related events within the oil and gas industries, conclusions can be drawn on emerging patterns of attack and the increasing role of non-state actors in geopolitical conflicts proliferated by the growing weight of information as a means of expressing power. This analysis also presents the opportunity to scrutinize future implications of cyber conflict, with respect to both a current and historical context.

Published In

Volume 13, Issue 3

An Annotated Bibliographical Survey on Cyber Intelligence for Cyber Intelligence Officers

ABSTRACT

Since 2008, Cyberspace is officially regarded as a distinct military domain, along with land, sea, and air for many countries (Goel 2011). The nature of warfare in cyberspace is radically different than traditional warfare: the attacks are more remote, stealthy, and detecting the identity of the adversary may be impossible (Greengard 2010). Nations need intelligence in this relatively new domain of war in order to know the strengths and weaknesses of other nations and themselves. This paper presents a literature survey on computer science methodologies that can be useful for intelligence officers working in cyberspace.

Published In

Volume 13, Issue 4

Journal of Information Warfare

The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.

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The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.

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