Expert assesses likelihood of nationwide internet blackout in Ukraine amid Russian attacks
Russia is attempting to attack Ukraine’s digital infrastructure, particularly data centers; however, a complete internet blackout resulting from such attacks is currently unlikely.
Serhii Denysenko, director of the Cyberlab Computer Forensics Laboratory, has expressed concern over the potential for a nationwide internet blackout in Ukraine amidst escalating Russian attacks. He claims that Russia is targeting telecommunications services through both cyberattacks and physical assaults on critical infrastructure, including the destruction of data centers.
While the current situation is not considered critical by Denisenko, he emphasizes that the resilience of Ukraine's digital infrastructure lies in the abundance of data centers, internet service providers, and mobile network operators. This distributed system, he explains, means that targeted strikes on individual facilities are unlikely to result in widespread internet outages.
Users can still access the internet via mobile operators, and major providers do not concentrate their equipment in a single location; some may be abroad. Denisenko also highlights the implementation of physical security measures, such as fortifying facilities, relocating parts underground, and restricting information about locations.
Additionally, data backup and mirror data centers are being used to ensure information continuity. Ukrainian companies store and process data in various countries across Europe and worldwide, with government agencies also utilizing foreign data centers. Denisenko suggests that these companies should opt for data centers with robust cybersecurity and physical security measures.
Although he does not dismiss the possibility of sabotage against digital infrastructure outside Ukraine, identifying the exact storage locations of specific Ukrainian companies or institutions proves challenging due to their global distribution. President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously stated that the Russians aim to deprive Ukrainians of internet access, communications, and digital services.
Written by urgent.news from Ukrinform - Economy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
