Notes on the militarization of Brazilian cybersecurity: Current state of affairs and perspectives on the near future

Abstract

In this work, I reflect on the state of Brazilian cybersecurity practices, and how they have been conceptualized in laws and in official documents, such as national strategies. Based on literature review, I argue that this is a militarized domain, which could have not only political consequences, but also societal ones. I conclude by arguing for the need for involving other sectors of society in order to deal with cybersecurity challenges in a more effective and adequate manner. I conclude that, by making a partial diagnosis of what cyber threats are and not implementing effective coordination measures, even at the governmental level, Brazil puts itself in a vulnerable position when it comes to a challenge that will stretch well into the next decades by militarizing its handling of the issue.