As Bangladesh deepens its digital transformation, the need for a dedicated cyber brigade to safeguard national security has never been more pressing. With increasing dependence on digital infrastructure, from government databases to financial institutions, cyber threats are escalating in scale and sophistication. Without a specialised force to counter cyberattacks, Bangladesh remains vulnerable to data breaches, financial fraud, disruptions in public services and economic sabotage. The 2016 Bangladesh Bank cyber heist, where hackers attempted to steal close to US$1 billion and successfully made off with US$81 million, remains a glaring example of national vulnerability. More recently, in May 2023, a cybercriminal gang hacked into the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) server, embezzling Tk 12 crore (approximately US$1.1 million) by manipulating digital records. These incidents highlight the urgent need for a well-equipped cyber defence force, capable of detecting, preventing, and neutralising cyber threats before they cause irreparable damage. With the rise of AI-driven cyberattacks, ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS), and deepfake technology, Bangladesh must build a proactive, intelligence-driven cybersecurity force to defend its critical infrastructure and digital economy.

To effectively combat these growing threats, Bangladesh’s cyber brigade must go beyond reactive responses and focus on proactive defence strategies. Cybercriminals today leverage artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced hacking techniques to breach even the most secure systems. A dedicated cyber brigade would not only monitor and neutralise cyber threats in real time but also conduct cyber intelligence operations, track digital footprints of cybercriminal networks, and protect national assets. Countries like Singapore, Estonia etc. have successfully turned cybersecurity into a pillar of national defence, developing state-backed cyber divisions that actively deter digital threats. Bangladesh must follow this model, integrating public-private partnerships into its cybersecurity framework. Financial institutions, telecom operators, and tech firms must work alongside the cyber brigade to ensure real-time threat intelligence sharing and a coordinated response to cyber incidents. Moreover, since cyber threats transcend national borders, international cooperation is crucial. Bangladesh should collaborate with global cybersecurity alliances, such as the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, and form bilateral agreements with technologically advanced nations to enhance cyber resilience and digital sovereignty.

Building a strong and skilled cybersecurity workforce is just as critical as investing in cutting-edge technology. Currently, Bangladesh lacks an adequate pool of cybersecurity professionals to combat modern cyber threats. To address this gap, cybersecurity education must be integrated into university curriculums, and state-backed cybersecurity research institutes should be established to develop homegrown solutions. Countries like South Korea and the United States have significantly bolstered their cyber defenses by fostering public-private research collaborations and incentivising students to pursue careers in cybersecurity. Bangladesh must adopt a similar approach, equipping professionals with expertise in penetration testing, ethical hacking, AI-driven threat detection, and blockchain security. Additionally, the rise of AI-driven cyberattacks necessitates an AI-powered cybersecurity response system. AI-based predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and automated defence mechanisms can detect cyber threats before they escalate, reducing dependence on manual intervention. The United Kingdom’s AI-driven national cybersecurity programme serves as an excellent model for how AI can be leveraged to safeguard digital infrastructures.

While technological advancements and workforce development are vital, a strong legal and policy framework must also support Bangladesh’s cyber brigade. Existing cybersecurity laws and data protection policies require modernisation to keep pace with evolving digital threats. Implementing mandatory cybersecurity compliance standards for financial institutions, telecom companies, and government agencies will help reduce vulnerabilities. Additionally, a centralised cyber incident response mechanism must be established to ensure a swift and coordinated approach to cyberattacks. Many cyber incidents in Bangladesh go unreported or unresolved due to a lack of structured response protocols. A cyber brigade would create a national cybersecurity framework that brings together law enforcement, intelligence agencies and private-sector security teams to respond more effectively to threats. As cybercriminals continue to adapt and evolve, Bangladesh must ensure that its digital policies remain agile and robust, capable of protecting citizens, businesses, and national interests from emerging cyber risks.

The rise in cyber threats presents not only a serious security challenge but also an opportunity for Bangladesh to position itself as a cybersecurity leader in South Asia. By investing in state-of-the-art technology, a highly skilled workforce, and robust cybersecurity policies, Bangladesh can transform its digital landscape into one of the most secure in the region. A cyber brigade is more than just a defence force—it is an investment in national security, economic growth and digital trust. A well-secured digital environment will encourage innovation, attract foreign investment and strengthen Bangladesh’s global digital footprint. While challenges lie ahead, Bangladesh has the potential, the talent, and the vision to build a resilient cybersecurity infrastructure that safeguards its digital future. With strategic planning, strong leadership and proactive international collaboration, Bangladesh can not only defend itself against cyber warfare but also set an example for other developing nations. The formation of a cyberbrigade is not just about protecting today—it is about securing tomorrow. By acting now, Bangladesh can ensure that its digital future remains bright, secure and full of possibilities.

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The writer is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Philosophy at IUBAT and pursuing a Masters in Human Rights and Multiculturalism at University of South Eastern Norway