The Evolution of Cyber Security Norm Development in The Digital Age

Abstract

The development of normative cybersecurity behaviors in cyberspace plays a critical role in the resilience of the global digital supply chain. This case study takes a longitudinal approach in analyzing cyber norm development activities throughout 1997–2020. A total of 216 individual cases were collected, and 233 individual cyber norms were identified and compiled into 25 subject categories, allowing for a longitudinal view of cyber norm activities, and the changes of cyber norm developments over these years. This examination enables us to identify which cyber norms (if any) would work: norms with consistent activity across the timeline were considered successful, while those norms that disappeared completely or for long periods were considered unsuccessful. Considering such trends of success in cyber norm development allows for the prospect of a successful cybersecurity environment in the future. and guides the construction of cybersecurity governance in the digital age.