Digital Exclusion Is Now a National Security Risk, Warns Expert

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-15

The conversation around digital access often focuses on convenience or economic opportunity. But Steve Durbin, a prominent voice in technology governance, is reframing the issue entirely. He argues that digital exclusion has evolved from a social concern into a direct threat to national security. Under Andy Burnham's leadership, Durbin insists that tackling this divide and strengthening cyber resilience must become top-tier priorities for the government. This isn't just about getting more people online. It's about recognizing that when large segments of the population are locked out of digital systems, the entire infrastructure becomes vulnerable. Let's break down why this matters and what it means for the United States and its allies. ### The Hidden Vulnerability of a Divided Digital World Think of a society's digital ecosystem like a chain. If one link is weak, the entire chain can break. When millions of people lack reliable internet access, digital literacy, or secure devices, they become easy targets for cybercriminals. These individuals are often forced to use outdated technology or public Wi-Fi networks, which are notoriously insecure. - **Increased attack surface:** Every unsecured connection is a potential entry point for hackers. - **Low digital literacy:** People who don't understand basic security practices are more likely to fall for phishing scams or malware. - **Limited recourse:** Those without digital access often don't have the means to report cyber incidents or recover from identity theft. Durbin's warning is clear: a digitally excluded population creates a soft underbelly that adversaries can exploit. This isn't a hypothetical risk. Nation-state actors and criminal groups actively target vulnerable communities to gain footholds into larger networks, including critical infrastructure. ### Why Cyber Resilience Must Be a National Priority Cyber resilience isn't just about having strong firewalls or antivirus software. It's about building systems that can withstand attacks and recover quickly. Durbin argues that this resilience must start at the community level. If the government under Burnham fails to address digital exclusion, it's essentially leaving the front door unlocked. Consider the implications for national security: - **Critical infrastructure:** Power grids, water systems, and hospitals rely on digital networks. If excluded populations are exploited, attackers can pivot to these systems. - **Economic stability:** Small businesses in underserved areas are frequent targets. A major breach could ripple through the economy. - **Public trust:** When citizens feel unsafe online, they disengage from digital government services, creating further fragmentation. Durbin's call to action is straightforward: treat digital inclusion as a security imperative, not just a social program. This means investing in broadband infrastructure, digital education, and affordable secure devices. It also means integrating cybersecurity training into community outreach. ### What This Means for the United States While the context is the UK under Burnham, the lesson applies directly to the United States. The US faces similar challenges with the digital divide, particularly in rural areas and low-income urban neighborhoods. If digital exclusion is a national security risk in the UK, it's an even bigger one in a country as interconnected as the US. > "Digital exclusion is the new frontier of national security. We ignore it at our own peril." - Steve Durbin This quote captures the urgency. The US government and private sector must collaborate to close the digital divide. This isn't just about fairness; it's about protecting the nation's digital infrastructure from exploitation. Programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program are a start, but they need to be expanded and integrated with cyber resilience strategies. ### Steps Toward a More Secure Digital Future To address this issue, leaders must take concrete actions: 1. **Invest in infrastructure:** Deploy high-speed internet to underserved areas, prioritizing security from the ground up. 2. **Promote digital literacy:** Teach citizens how to recognize threats, use secure passwords, and protect their data. 3. **Support community networks:** Fund local initiatives that provide secure access and training. 4. **Integrate cybersecurity into social programs:** Ensure that any digital inclusion effort includes a strong security component. Durbin's warning is a wake-up call. Digital exclusion isn't just a social issue; it's a security vulnerability that demands immediate attention. By treating it as such, governments can protect their citizens and their national interests.