Multidimensional Cybersecurity Framework for Strategic Foresight

Abstract

Cybersecurity is now at the forefront of most organisations’ digital transformative agendas and National economic, social and political programmes. Hence its impact to society can no longer be seen to be one dimensional. The rise in National cybersecurity laws and regulations is a good indicator of its perceived importance to nations. And the recent awakening for social and ethical transparency in society and coupled with sustainability issues demonstrate the need for a paradigm shift in how cybersecurity discourses can now happen. In response to this shift, a multidimensional cybersecurity framework for strategic foresight underpinned on situational awareness is proposed. The conceptual cybersecurity framework comprising six domains – Physical, Cultural, Economic, Social, Political and Cyber – is discussed. The guiding principles underpinning the framework are outlined, followed by in-depth reflection on the Business, Operational, Technological and Human (BOTH) factors and their implications for strategic foresight for cybersecurity.