Globe

Globe, a threat actor in the cybersecurity space, has been a significant concern for governments and private entities worldwide. The use of spyware continues to be a major issue that governments have struggled to control, with instances where governments themselves are implicated in its use. Globe's activities have prompted the development of decryption tools, such as those provided by Emsisoft and TrendMicro, to help victims recover from Globe's attacks. The influence of Globe extends beyond the digital realm, impacting social, political, and economic aspects across the globe. Disinformation concerning Smartmatic’s administration of elections, for instance, has spanned globally since before 2020. The geopolitical order was significantly fragmented due to events like the Ukraine war, which overshadowed the G-20 Summit in September 2023. Furthermore, North Korea's decision to close diplomatic missions in at least four locations could be an indication of severe economic challenges influenced by cyber threats like Globe. Efforts to counteract Globe's activities are ongoing. For instance, the United States is emerging at the forefront of regulatory developments around the globe, with increased vigilance over zero-day activity affecting federal government networks. Cybersecurity companies such as CyberGhost, with more than ten million active users and over 7,000 servers spread across the globe, also play a critical role in providing secure connections. Lastly, education and capacity building initiatives, like those led by CISA's cybersecurity division and the NU community, are crucial in equipping individuals and organizations with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle threats posed by actors like Globe.