Eurovision is facing heightened cyber risks as it kicks off its 68th contest in Malmö, Sweden. The event, which is one of the world’s most watched non-sporting events with 162 million viewers last year, is a prime target for cyber threats. These threats range from DDoS attacks to potentially devastating broadcast hijacking, as highlighted in a recent 23-page intelligence report by the Swedish police. With geopolitical tensions, including Israel’s assault on Gaza and Russia’s war in Ukraine, adding to the security concerns, Eurovision has ramped up its defenses.
Cybersecurity experts have flagged the voting system as a significant vulnerability, especially during the grand finale. Malmö police chief Petra Stenkula emphasized the danger of disinformation campaigns. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and SVT, the host broadcaster, are collaborating closely with security teams and experts to mitigate these risks. The firm responsible for Eurovision’s voting system, Digame, is also taking substantial measures to protect the integrity of the voting process, although specific details remain confidential.
Beyond cyber threats, the physical security of the event has been intensified with the largest-ever police operation in southern Sweden, bolstered by reinforcements from Denmark. Although no specific threats have been identified, Sweden’s elevated terror alert level and recent events have heightened the focus on security. Protests are planned in Malmö, demanding Israel’s removal from the contest, further complicating the security landscape.
The advisory from Radware warns that both pro-Palestinian hacktivists and Russia-linked actors could target Eurovision. The increasing sophistication of cyber attack tools, fueled by advancements in AI and the broader cyber conflict landscape, poses additional challenges. Organizers of other major events, such as the Paris 2024 Olympics, are also preparing for unprecedented cyber threats, highlighting a growing concern for high-profile international events.
