Finnish cyber security environment – current situation, targets and measures to achieve these
The purpose of the research project “Finnish cyber security environment – current situation, targets and measures to achieve these” was to examine comprehensively how the goal set in the 2013 cyber security strategy ”Finland is a global pioneer in preparing for cyber threats and in managing disruptions caused by them” has been achieved and what the desired position of the Finnish cyber security environment should be in 2020.
The research project analysed cyber security megatrends, examined the current state of the cyber security environment and development needs in the public and private sectors, and analysed the current state and development of the cyber security environment in six countries (the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Israel, Sweden, Singapore and Estonia). The summary presents the deficiencies detected and areas where changes are needed to reach the desired position in the cyber security environment in 2020.
The aim is that by 2020 in Finland, the cyber security environment is inbuilt into the digital society, making it possible for everyone to reliably and safely utilise all digital solutions offered by society.
Streamlining and strengthening strategic leadership are key aspects in making sure the Finnish cyber security vision is achieved. The mandate for the power to act and the creation of a leadership model suitable for the cyber environment in particular to control extensive disruptions are required. Leadership requires improving situation awareness at the national level and developing perception abilities. Therefore, it's indispensable to draw up national intelligence legislation.
The development of the cyber security environment requires strong political commitment – seeing cyber policy as a new element in the national and international operating environments. At the moment, all vital functions of Finnish society and companies critical to the security of supply have not been adequately protected against various cyber threats. There are also deficiencies in the ability to deal with disruptions.
Improvements in cyber security help promote digitalisation. Finland has excellent possibilities in terms of the cyber environment to become known as secure and reliable, thus further increasing the attractiveness of Finland as a country to invest in. It is important that the security environment with its threats and possibilities is viewed as a whole from the standpoint of comprehensive security.
The study is part of the implementation of the 2014 Government plan for analysis, assessment and research and was drawn up by the following researchers from the University of Jyväskylä and Aalto University: professors Martti Lehto and Jarno Limnéll and researchers Eeva Innola, Jouni Pöyhönen, Tarja Rusi and Mirva Salminen.
Further information about the Government’s analysis, assessment and research activities at tietokayttoon.fi.
Inquiries: Professor Martti Lehto, University of Jyväskylä, tel. +358 400 248 080; Professor Jarno Limnéll, Aalto University, tel. +358 40 527 6173 and Pasi Eronen, Special Adviser, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 333.