In this article, a leaked master’s thesis by Evgenii Serebriakov, leader of Russia’s Sandworm hacking team, is discussed. The thesis, titled “Information Confrontation in World Politics,” reveals Serebriakov’s vision for cyber operations in the context of Russian national security and foreign policy. Dr. Bilyana Lilly, the author, provides an assessment of the thesis.
According to the assessment, Serebriakov emphasizes using technology and information influence as weapons to disrupt societies and achieve political change. He views cyber operations as part of a larger strategy involving psychological manipulation, control over information resources, and the utilization of non-state actors. Serebriakov adopts a broad definition of information warfare, encompassing both cyberspace and social space.
Of particular concern is Serebriakov’s description of six steps to bring about the violent removal of political leadership through information warfare. These steps involve manipulating cultural codes, creating political distrust, generating economic tensions, fragmenting social cohesion, stimulating revolutionary tensions, and ultimately displacing the political leadership.
The thesis concludes by acknowledging Russia’s vulnerability to information warfare and the importance of maintaining cohesion among the population. The author suggests that if Serebriakov is the true author, the thesis serves as a cyber manifesto for Sandworm and the Russian government.
The article cautions government policymakers and organizations in the public and private sectors about the persistent nature of cyber conflict, encompassing espionage, information warfare, and cyber-attacks. It stresses the significance of comprehending and addressing the challenges posed by such activities.
Thanks to Geri Mendelsohn for this item.