Hybrid techniques

The techniques used by hostile actors, whether state or non-state, do not adhere to conventional norms. They aim to stay below the threshold that could be considered an act of war against the targeted state. These actions are often carried out in such a way that make it difficult to identify the perpetrators. Techniques are frequently used at the same time to maximise their impact.

A few examples:

Cyber attacks on government sites

Large-scale attacks can paralyse systems for days on end, making it impossible, for example, to apply for ID cards, enrol children in school, consult travel advice or file tax returns. The result is significant inconvenience and a loss of confidence in the government. In some cases, hybrid actors can also steal information about citizens, companies, public institutions and authorities, further undermining trust.

Cyber attacks are increasingly used in hybrid threats as a way to sow chaos and undermine trust in institutions. Moreover, they are relatively inexpensive, can be carried out anonymously and have a major impact on vital infrastructure and society as a whole.

Sabotage

Sabotage is a technique commonly used in hybrid threats, as it is effective in sowing chaos and weakening confidence in the authorities. Sabotaging the vital infrastructure of an adversary offers several advantages for a hybrid actor:

It can disrupt essential services such as electricity and transport, leading to frustration and discontent with the government.
It can lead to significant financial costs for the owners of infrastructure. In some cases, companies may decide to leave the country, leading to job losses and social unrest.
It can lead to a feeling of insecurity.

Since the start of the war in Ukraine, various acts of sabotage have come to light in Europe, including damage to submarine cables. The North Sea, for example, is a strategic area that contains data cables, power cables and gas pipelines.

Espionage and interference

Espionage and foreign interference are actions aimed at obtaining information or influencing decision-making by illegal, deceptive or clandestine means. There may be various objectives:

Strategic advantages: to obtain information on the military, economic or political strategies of other countries.
Economic reasons: to access technological innovations or industrial secrets to gain a competitive advantage.
Political influence: to manipulate elections, public opinion or political decisions.

The intelligence services and other actors can use a variety of techniques: recruiting and manipulating sources, infiltrating companies or public institutions, cyber-surveillance or intercepting electronic communications.

The fact that international organisations such as the European Union (EU) and NATO are based in Belgium make the latter a particularly attractive location for actors seeking to conduct interference or espionage actions.

Disinformation and polarisation

Spreading disinformation is a well-known aspect of hybrid threats. The aim is to intentionally spread false information to cause damage. This may be to influence opinions, generate revenue or undermine society, public health or democracy.