Dutch security agency warns AI is accelerating cyberattacks

The Dutch national counterterrorism and security co-ordinator, the NCTV, says artificial intelligence is helping hackers make cyberattacks faster and more effective, and is urging leaders to strengthen defences. The warning comes alongside concern that smaller organisations are less equipped to protect themselves than providers of critical services.

NCTV chief Marc Kuipers says AI is now being used not only to identify targets and produce phishing emails, but also to carry out attacks. It can help write and refine malware, or enable malicious software to communicate with an AI model to receive instructions or rewrite code, the organisation says.

The NCTV describes a growing gap between the threat and the Netherlands’ ability to withstand it, warning of risks to national security from digital theft, sabotage and espionage. Its report lists dozens of cyber incidents worldwide since August 2025, including a data theft at telecoms company Odido and the hacking of cameras along military routes attributed to Russia. The NCTV says both criminal groups and states are increasingly using AI for malicious purposes.

Smaller businesses and organisations face particular difficulties improving their digital security, the NCTV says. They receive less government support than large companies providing critical services, contributing to what it calls a persistent resilience gap. The agency is looking to the government to help address it.

Justice minister David van Weel said it was still possible to defend against cyberattacks, arguing that AI could also help identify weaknesses for defensive purposes. The NCTV says using AI to defend against hacks may become necessary if attacks continue to accelerate.