Trends in Government Cyber Security Activities in 2016

The present paper reviews the main cyber events of 2016 from the perspective of governments. It outlines and analyzes key identifiable trends in cyber activities and policies worldwide such as the establishment of special national cyber strategies, enhancing research and development efforts, and strengthening international cyber collaborations and regulations. We focus mainly on major developments in the U.S, Russia, China, as well as other European and Asian powers. Our main findings show that while quantum computing and block chain technologies are developing rapidly and IoT and AI are picking up steam, governments are simultaneously improving their defensive and offensive capabilities and are trying to find new ways to deal with the emerging threats. Given the rapid pace of technological development, it remains to be seen whether these accelerated governmental efforts will succeed.