Vulnerability of world cable communications

Nature

There is an ever present hazard of damage to the many thousands of miles of submarine cable resting on the floors of the oceans of the world. Damage may be caused by fishing trawl gear or ships' anchors, earthquakes, volcanoes, exploitation of sea-bed resources or deliberate sabotage. Such cables carry several thousand telephone conversations simultaneously, together with telex, telegraph and data signals. They are costly and difficult to repair, particularly in mid-ocean.

Background

The vulnerability of world cable communications emerged as a global concern following incidents of undersea cable damage in the late 20th century, which disrupted international data and voice traffic. Heightened awareness grew after accidental breaks and targeted sabotage exposed the fragility of these critical infrastructures. Subsequent geopolitical tensions and technological dependence have intensified scrutiny, prompting international dialogue and research into the resilience and security of the world’s interconnected cable networks.

Incidence

The vulnerability of world cable communications is a significant global concern, as over 95% of international data traffic relies on a network of more than 400 undersea cables spanning hundreds of thousands of kilometers. These cables are susceptible to accidental damage from fishing, shipping, and natural disasters, as well as intentional sabotage or espionage, threatening the stability of global financial systems, communications, and security.
In October 2022, two major undersea cables connecting Shetland and the Faroe Islands to mainland Scotland were severed within days of each other, disrupting internet and phone services for thousands and raising concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the North Sea.

Claim

The vulnerability of global cable communications is a critical and urgent problem. Our world’s financial systems, government operations, and daily communications depend on undersea cables that are shockingly exposed to sabotage, espionage, and natural disasters. A single targeted attack or accident could cripple economies and disrupt societies. Ignoring this threat is reckless; we must prioritize securing and diversifying these vital arteries of global connectivity before catastrophe strikes.

Counter-claim

The so-called "vulnerability" of world cable communications is vastly overstated. Modern networks are robust, with multiple redundancies and rapid repair capabilities. Fears about catastrophic disruptions are exaggerated, often fueled by sensationalist media. In reality, the global internet and communications infrastructure is resilient, adaptable, and well-protected. Worrying about cable vulnerabilities distracts from far more pressing global issues that genuinely deserve our attention and resources. This is simply not an important problem.