Living Next Door to Russia - A History of Cyber Relations and Future Implications

Explore a compelling conference talk from DEF CON 31 that delves into Finland's complex relationship with Russia, examining the historical, political, and cybersecurity dynamics between the two nations. Learn about Finland's journey from a neutral state to NATO membership in 2023, and understand how living next to the world's largest country has shaped Finnish society. Gain insights into the evolution of Russian cyber programs and patriotic hacker groups, while discovering how Finland maintains its status as one of the least corrupt nations despite sharing a border with one of the most corrupt. Drawing from personal and family experiences of living near the Russian border, analyze the implications of Russia's increasing aggression, particularly in light of the Ukraine conflict, and examine predictions for Russia's future trajectory in the global cybersecurity landscape.