Microsoft Launches Free Cybersecurity Program for European Governments

Microsoft has launched a free cybersecurity program for European governments to strengthen their defenses against evolving cyber threats, particularly those enhanced by artificial intelligence. Announced on Wednesday, the initiative comes amid a sharp rise in state-sponsored cyberattacks across Europe, many originating from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. The program will focus on improving intelligence-sharing about AI-based threats while helping governments prevent and disrupt potential attacks on critical infrastructure and democratic processes.

Microsoft President Brad Smith revealed the company aims to adapt successful U.S. cybersecurity models for European institutions. “We’re bringing defensive tools to outpace offensive AI capabilities,” Smith told Reuters, noting that while malicious actors increasingly weaponize AI, Microsoft’s detection systems have so far managed to identify and counter these threats. The company actively monitors misuse of its AI models and blocks known cybercriminals from accessing its AI products.

The program also addresses growing concerns about AI-driven disinformation, including deepfake audio and video used in influence operations. Notable examples include a fabricated 2022 video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appearing to surrender and a deceptive audio clip that swayed Slovakia’s 2023 election. Smith warned that while video manipulation remains complex, AI-generated audio fakes currently pose a more immediate threat due to their lower technical barriers. The initiative underscores Microsoft’s commitment to ensuring AI develops as a security asset faster than it evolves as a weapon.

(Source: TBS)