Sweden and Norway rethink cashless society plans over Russia security fears
www.theguardian.com
Rise in hybrid warfare and cyber-attacks blamed on pro-Russia groups prompt Nordic neighbours to backpedal

cross-posted from: https://feddit.org/post/4262252

A combination of good high-speed internet coverage, high digital literacy rates, large rural populations and fast-growing fintech industries had put the Nordic neighbours on a fast track to a future without cash.

[…]

But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and a subsequent rise in cross-border hybrid warfare and cyber-attacks blamed on pro-Russia groups have prompted a rethink.

[…]

The Swedish government has since completely overhauled its defence and preparedness strategy, joining Nato, starting a new form of national service and reactivating its psychological defence agency to combat disinformation from Russia and other adversaries. Norway has tightened controls on its previously porous border with Russia.

[…]

[Norway’s] justice and public security ministry said it “recommends everyone keep some cash on hand due to the vulnerabilities of digital payment solutions to cyber-attacks”. It said the government took preparedness seriously “given the increasing global instability with war, digital threats, and climate change. As a result, they’ve ensured that the right to pay with cash is strengthened”.

[…]

  • Lemminary@lemmy.worldEnglish
    7·
    9 days ago

    Much lower risk of getting robbed

    Maybe that works in Sweden, but in other places you get shot if you’re not carrying money with you 😅

    • stephen01king@lemmy.zipEnglish
      9·
      9 days ago

      I think those places need more support systems to reduce the number of people that becomes desperate enough to do that.

      • Lemminary@lemmy.worldEnglish
        2·
        8 days ago

        We have plenty of support systems, but we have too much corruption. I think we’re working on that now with our first female prez.