The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is fueling a surge in global cyber threats, leaving developing countries increasingly vulnerable, according to Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director at the UN’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Speaking at a global forum, Zavazava highlighted that the least developed nations face heightened risks due to fragile digital infrastructure, limited internet access, and insufficient cybersecurity funding.
He warned that as AI becomes more integrated into critical systems worldwide, countries with underdeveloped digital defenses are at greater risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, and digital exploitation. The situation is particularly concerning for nations that lack the resources to implement robust cybersecurity strategies or respond to advanced cyber threats.
Zavazava stressed the urgent need for global cooperation, increased investment, and knowledge-sharing to help bridge the digital divide and protect vulnerable states. He called on international stakeholders to prioritize cybersecurity support for these countries before the growing risks spiral out of control.
The warning comes amid mounting global concern over AI’s dual-use nature—its potential to drive progress while also enabling sophisticated cyber threats. The ITU emphasized that inclusive digital security is essential to ensuring AI’s benefits are shared without disproportionately endangering the world’s most fragile regions.
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