Total Defense and the Business Sector: What Does the Heightened Threat Landscape Mean for You?
The threat landscape in 2025 is severe, with foreign actors increasingly willing to take greater risks.
Recent threat assessments by the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), the Norwegian National Security Authority (NSM), and the Intelligence Service highlight a growing danger of sabotage, insider threats, cyberattacks, and economic espionage. Norwegian businesses must strengthen their preparedness now.
What if an employee in your company receives a LinkedIn request with an enticing offer to disclose information? What if a subcontractor’s weak IT security allows foreign actors access to sensitive data? Or if a newly hired employee proudly shares a photo of their access badge on social media—only for unauthorized individuals to copy it and gain entry?
Escalating Cyber Threats
Cyber operations targeting Norwegian businesses are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Both state-sponsored and criminal actors use digital operations to gather intelligence, influence decision-makers, and disrupt critical infrastructure. Sectors such as energy, finance, healthcare, and technology are particularly vulnerable. The consequences can be significant—financial losses, reputational damage, and the loss of trade secrets.
Insider Risks and Sabotage Threats – A Hidden Danger
Threat assessments indicate a heightened risk of sabotage against critical infrastructure, including power supply, transportation, and telecommunications. State actors also exploit economic tools and supply chains to gain access to sensitive information. Insider threats pose a particularly serious challenge, as employees with access to critical systems may be subjected to coercion, financial incentives, or ideological influence to leak information or sabotage operations.
Economic Espionage and Foreign Influence
Foreign states engage in economic espionage to gain insight into Norwegian technological and industrial advancements. This is often carried out through investments, partnerships, or covert ownership in strategically important businesses.
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How We Can Assist
To address the current threat landscape, we assist businesses with a strategic review of security risks and necessary measures. Our advisory services include:
- Security and Preparedness Strategy: We help businesses assess risks, implement preventive measures, and develop robust contingency plans.
- Managing Insider Risks and Supply Chains: We support businesses with contracts and due diligence to minimize vulnerabilities. This includes evaluating the feasibility of credit assessments, background checks, and substance testing, as well as establishing procedures for accessing employees’ email accounts and computers.
- Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that your business adheres to the Security Act and other regulatory requirements related to critical infrastructure and national security.
- Legal Support for Cyber Operations and Security Incidents: We provide legal guidance on incidents with regulatory or legal implications, including mandatory reporting to authorities in cases of personal data security breaches.
The threat landscape is continuously evolving, and Norwegian businesses must take a proactive approach. Contact us for an assessment of how we can enhance your company’s security and preparedness.
