Matthew RosenquistFounder & CISO Advisor, Cybersecurity Insights · CISO, Cybersecurity Strategist, & Industry Advisor

Will Cyber Private Military Companies Rise in 2023?

7 Mar 2023 · 1 min

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1:09

In this brief commentary, the speaker outlines a 2023 cybersecurity prediction: the emergence and growth of cyber private military companies (cyber PMCs). He explains that traditional PMCs, which provide kinetic military support for profit, are likely to evolve into cyber-focused entities that conduct offensive cyberattacks on behalf of aggressive nation‑states seeking plausible deniability. The speaker argues that these cyber PMCs will fill market gaps, be financially motivated, and by the end of 2023 will begin to reshape both offensive and defensive cyber operations, urging listeners to prepare for this shift.

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There is an upsurge in private military companies, or PMCs. One of my 2023 cybersecurity predictions is the rise of cyber PMCs that specialize in cyberattacks. These will likely be very closely tied to aggressive nations who want the ability to direct the targets but be at arm's distance for deniability purposes. PMCs are not new and traditionally focused on kinetic military direct and indirect support. They are the bigger, more organized brother of simple mercenary groups. They are motivated by money and typically fill the gaps that governments need while in conflict with other nations. And I predict by the end of 2023, we will see these types of organizations emerge to service the lucrative cyber market, which will change both the offensive and defensive landscape. So get ready for cyber PMCs in the future.