Is Türkiye a Target for Cyberattacks?

Speaking to Wise TV, Tarık Üstüner, Head of Information Security at Midas, evaluated Turkey’s position in the realm of cybersecurity and the risks it faces.

“There is, in fact, a single underlying reason for this. When you look at what we call the ‘dark side’ of information security, it is essentially no different from committing a conventional crime. When you consider this at the national level—looking at cyberattacks and cyber threats between countries—it is, in reality, no different from warfare waged with traditional weapons like artillery and firearms. In areas such as cyber-espionage and cyber-warfare, nations do not merely act as individual entities; they also provide support for these types of electronic attacks. Due to its geopolitical position, Turkey is already exposed to risks from conventional threats, which makes it a primary focal point for information security attacks as well. However, there is a distinct nuance here: if you look at the regions surrounding our country, the areas to the south lack significant technological development. To the north, while there is a high level of technological advancement, that region functions as a relatively closed economy and a closed system. In contrast, Turkey is open and closely connected to many directions—Europe, Asia, and Africa alike. Naturally, the more data you share and the broader the reach you establish, the more you expand your ‘attack surface.’ Attackers generally have two types of objectives: first, to discover a vulnerability—often to boast about the discovery and gain a sense of prestige—and second, to cause direct harm. In this regard, Turkey finds itself a target for both of these primary attacker profiles.” Our field is a new one, and it has not yet gained much awareness. I believe that both the government and other large organizations should undertake various initiatives in this area, and that some resources and support should be allocated to it.

Cybersecurity and Geopolitical Risks

Today, cybersecurity holds a significant place in international relations and national security strategies. Unlike traditional methods of warfare, cyberattacks between nations occur in the digital realm and can lead to serious consequences. In this context, cyber espionage and cyber warfare mean that countries face threats not only from individual actors but also from state-sponsored attacks.

The Impact of Geopolitical Location

Türkiye’s geopolitical position makes it a high-risk region for both traditional and cyberattacks. Its strategic location—situated in close proximity to Europe, Asia, and Africa—renders it an attractive target for cyber aggressors. Consequently, Türkiye must dedicate greater attention and more resources to the field of information security.

Motivations of Cyber ​​Aggressors

Cyber ​​aggressors generally have two primary motivations: to gain prestige by identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities, or to inflict direct harm. Turkey finds itself a target for both types of aggressors. Therefore, it is essential for the country to strengthen its cybersecurity strategies and raise awareness in this domain.

Technological Developments and Economic Structure

The levels of technological advancement and the economic structures of the countries surrounding Türkiye exacerbate cybersecurity risks. Closed economies to the north and a lack of technological development to the south leave Türkiye even more vulnerable. This situation necessitates a more proactive approach to the country’s cybersecurity policies.

Awareness of Information Security

In Türkiye, information security is an area that has yet to receive a sufficient level of awareness. The government and major organizations should conduct more work and allocate greater resources in this field. Doing so will both enhance national security and help establish a stronger stance in the international arena.

The Need for Resources and Support

To succeed in the realm of cybersecurity, Türkiye must dedicate more resources and support to this area. Educational programs, awareness campaigns, and international collaborations will contribute to addressing existing shortcomings.

Conclusion

In today’s world, cybersecurity has become an integral component of national security. Türkiye’s geopolitical position, combined with the technological and economic dynamics of its surrounding region, leaves the country vulnerable to cyberattacks. Therefore, increasing awareness regarding information security and allocating more resources will enable the nation to become more resilient against cyber threats. Education and international cooperation must be key elements of this process.