Widespread denial-of-service attacks on banks in Finland may be classified as acts of terrorism

Widespread denial-of-service attacks targeting banks may be classified as acts of terrorism, according to criminal law experts interviewed by Yle. This fall, Nordea has been the victim of extensive cyber-attacks, which the bank believes are orchestrated by an organized group. Emeritus Professor of Criminal Law Matti Tolvanen noted that police have substantial reason to suspect terrorist intent due to the massive and prolonged nature of the attacks on the banking system. He emphasized that a key element of terrorism is instilling serious fear within the population.

“Creating confusion and potentially fear among the public appears to be the primary goal of the Nordea attacks,” Tolvanen stated. Tatu Hyttinen, an associate professor of criminal law at the University of Turku, added that causing significant harm to the state’s economy or infrastructure could also be interpreted as terrorism, considering the banking sector’s critical role in societal infrastructure.

Denial-of-service attacks aim to overload online services with traffic, preventing normal access. Nordea suspects these assaults aim to undermine societal calm and create instability. Antti Lindtman, chair of the parliamentary banking authority, indicated to Yle that such an extensive attack could involve state actors or entities connected to them.

The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (KRP) is examining the situation as severe telecommunications disturbance, a classification that could enable the investigation to consider terrorism charges. Tolvanen argued for initiating investigations based on the outward appearance of the act, stating that if there is an intent to instill fear, then it should be treated accordingly.

As of now, Finland has no documented cybercrime instances associated with terrorist motives. Legal experts suggest that the lack of public discourse on the nation’s terrorism legislation might contribute to this situation. They believe that a terrorism investigation would grant the police additional powers necessary for an effective investigation, which could include advanced surveillance techniques.