Abstract:
In this article, Microsoft proposes a legally binding “Digital Geneva Convention” to govern state behavior in cyberspace. It advocates for building on existing efforts (including the UN’s Group of Government Experts initiative and the Global Commission for the Stability of Cyberspace) to advance transparency and accountability for state cyber activity. In addition to limitations on cyber weapon proliferation and the scope of offensive cyber engagements, the proposal calls for restrictions on: critical infrastructure attacks, industrial espionage, election hacks, and requiring and use of backdoors.