As nations increasingly rely on digital infrastructure, the integrity of democratic processes faces unprecedented challenges from cyber threats that grow more complex and pervasive. This talk will explore the vulnerabilities in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, and communication, highlighting recent incidents that underscore the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures. We’ll also explore the critical intersection of cybersecurity and democracy, highlighting the vulnerabilities that arise during an election process, public discourse, and civic engagement. Additionally, we will examine the dual role of artificial intelligence (AI) in this landscape—both as a tool for enhancing cybersecurity protocols and as a potential target for exploitation by malicious actors. By understanding these dynamics, we can better prepare to defend our national infrastructure while leveraging AI to create more resilient systems.

Dr. Chrysostomos L. Nikias is president emeritus and life trustee, professor of electrical engineering and the Malcolm R. Currie chair in technology and the humanities at the University of Southern California. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, a fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, a charter fellow of the National Academy of Inventor, an associate member of the Academy of Athens and a Life Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He is the current president of the advisory board of the Council for International Relations – Greece.