A Comparative Analysis of the National Cyber Security Strategies of Leading Nations

The rapid pace of technological developments in the area of information and communications technologies caused nations and peoples to be more reliant on cyber infrastructure to survive. Besides opportunities, the widespread use of information technology introduces new threats as well. Risks related to cyber security have started to threaten critical infrastructures, which are defined as assets that are essential for the functioning of a society and its economy. Cyber security has become one of the most serious national security concerns. In 2003 the United States was the first nation to prepare and publish a national cyber security strategy In the last ten years, 35 other nations have subsequently published their national cyber security strategy document. There are several aspects for national cyber security strategies. According to Luiijif and Healey (2012), there are five mandates of national cyber security: 1) Military cyber operations, 2) Counter cybercrime, 3) Intelligence/Counter intelligence, 4) Cyber security crisis management and critical infrastructure protection and 5) Internet governance and cyber diplomacy. In this study, the national cyber security strategies of France, Germany, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, United States and Turkey are examined and compared. Correlations between specific properties of the nation (economic power and political situation etc.) and focus and content of its cyber strategy were examined. The results of the study will provide guidance for nations that plan to prepare or update a national cyber security strategy.