Taming the lawless void: tracking the evolution of international law rules for cyberspace

Schmitt, M. N. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7373-9557 (2020) Taming the lawless void: tracking the evolution of international law rules for cyberspace. Texas National Security Review, 3 (3). pp. 32-47. ISSN 2576-1153

Abstract/Summary

The myth that cyberspace is a legal Wild West has been roundly rejected by states and scholars. As cyberspace norms evolve, states will advocate interpretations of existing international law rules that advance their national interests. In this regard, states are treating international law rules as normative firewalls that safeguard their interests by deterring malevolent behavior. At the same time, states are interpreting the rules in a manner that maximizes their response options when facing hostile cyber operations.