This article explores the parallels between cyber warfare and biological warfare, highlighting their shared characteristics and the implications for international security. The authors argue that while cyber warfare and biological warfare seem distinct, their similarities can inform better strategies for addressing cyber threats based on historical responses to biological warfare. Key commonalities include the difficulty of attribution, the dual-use nature of the technologies, and their appeal to weaker powers and non-state actors as asymmetric weapons. The article suggests that the extensive experience with biological warfare could offer valuable insights for developing international norms and improving cybersecurity measures. Additionally, the authors propose that the unpredictable nature of these technologies and their potential for collateral damage make them particularly challenging from a security perspective. Overall, the article calls for a strategic dialogue that integrates lessons from biological warfare to enhance the governance and control of cyber threats.
