Cybersecurity challenges across sustainable development goals: A comprehensive review

Abstract

In an era where society becomes increasingly reliant on digital technology and interconnected systems, the significance of cybersecurity for upholding sustainable development has become paramount. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030, people enjoy peace and prosperity. As we draw closer to the critical year of 2030, the insights of this paper gain urgency in light of ongoing efforts to achieve the SDGs. This review paper takes an innovative stance by examining how cybersecurity challenges align with each SDG. The novelty of this study is that, it not only highlights the interconnected nature of cybersecurity within each goal but also identifies and categorizes the top five emerging threats that could impact the 17 goals. By pinpointing potential risks, it calls for further research and strategies to counter these cyber threats that might hinder the progress towards the SDGs. This research work serves as valuable guidance for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, offering a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between cybersecurity and sustainable development.