Slovakia not prepared for hybrid threats

Almost two-thirds of public administration officials doubt Slovakia is ready for potential hybrid threats, according to a survey carried out by the Bratislava-based think tank Globsec. Hybrid attacks can pose a threat to state and society in different ways. So-called information operations are among their most common manifestations, as influencing and manipulating public opinion through information is not only a quick but also a cheap way to discredit an individual, weaken a group, or undermine confidence in the state and its institutions. "It can manifest itself as a sudden and powerful wave of so-called trolling, a fake version of a website or social network account, or an attempt to attack emails, "says Globsec analyst Dominika Hajdu. The think tank proposes as a first line of defense training employees in charge with public relations in how to manage crisis communication and systematically build resilience through strategic communication.