Microsoft Stepping Up Cybersecurity Collaborations with Europe's Govts, Sharing AI-based Threat Info
Microsoft to Enhance Collaboration with European Governments in Reinforcing Cybersecurity Measures
Get ready for a tighter bond between Microsoft and European governments in the cybersecurity sphere! Microsoft President Brad Smith's recent blog post announces a drive to intensify information exchange with authorities using AI tools. This cooperation, named the "European Security Program," aims to beef up cybersecurity across Europe.
Smith unveiled that Microsoft will beef up the exchange of AI-based threat information with European governments, as well as making additional investments to bolster cybersecurity capabilities and resilience. This collaboration will also extend to defending against cyberattacks and dismantling cybercriminal networks.
Targeting growing cyber threats, this initiative focuses on addressing the increased risk of AI-related attacks, such as deepfakes. Here's a lowdown on the program's crucial components:
- AI-based Threat Intelligence
- Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit and Threat Analysis Center will provide tailored, real-time threat insights to European governments.
- The program will help authorities respond rapidly to ever-evolving threats.
- Collaborations
- Microsoft will partner with third-party cyber researchers, including Europol, CyberPeace, and the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre to combat cyberattacks more effectively.
- Law Enforcement Initiatives
- The program includes initiatives with law enforcement agencies to enhance cybersecurity measures across Europe.
- Microsoft will offer direct assistance to affected countries, such as Ukraine.
- Internet Service Provider (ISP) Support
- Microsoft will collaborate with ISPs to support affected users, ensuring both governments and citizens receive necessary help during cyber threats.
- Dedicated Support
- Each participating nation will have a dedicated point of contact to escalate concerns related to cybersecurity issues.
The "European Security Program" is available to all 27 EU member states, EU accession countries, European Free Trade Association members, the UK, Monaco, and the Vatican. The program extends Microsoft's existing Government Security Program to address Europe's unique cybersecurity challenges, especially those originating from Russia and China.
In May, Microsoft joined forces with Europol and the US government for a large-scale operation to neutralize the infrastructure used to spread the Russian-originated "Lumma Stealer" virus. Microsoft blocked or deleted around 2,300 internet addresses that "Lumma" relied on.
[1] ntv.de[2] AFP
- This collaboration between Microsoft and European governments, under the "European Security Program," encompasses the exchange of AI-based threat information, joint efforts with third-party cyber researchers, law enforcement agencies, and Internet Service Providers, and dedicated support for each participating nation—all aimed at strengthening cybersecurity and addressing AI-related attacks, such as deepfakes.
- To mitigate growing cyber threats, Microsoft's "European Security Program" not only focuses on policymaking (community policy, employment policy) for technology-related sectors, including cybersecurity, but also seeks political support and general-news coverage to promote awareness, cooperation, and advancement in cybersecurity across Europe.
