New Zealand’s intelligence chief has warned that foreign actors are intensifying cyber espionage and state-sponsored interference campaigns, urging the private sector to strengthen security measures as part of a broader national effort to protect the economy and the country’s reputation.
Andrew Hampton, director-general of the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS), said national security cannot be achieved by intelligence agencies alone. Speaking after his address at this year’s Aspen-Otago National Security Forum, Hampton told SecurityBrief New Zealand that the volatile threat environment means “we need the public, including business, to report to us the threats that they see so that we can work together to deter and disrupt.”
The blurring line between public and private sector vulnerabilities has raised the stakes for corporate New Zealand, particularly as foreign espionage becomes more sophisticated. Hampton said the NZSIS observes “multiple examples of foreign states conducting espionage to seek covert access to a range of information from government policy positions to technological innovations and research.”
He said these threats have evolved beyond abstract risks. Methods now include “cyberattacks, obfuscation through cover companies and investment opportunities, targeting delegations travelling overseas, and exploiting insiders within organisations.”
“It is almost certain there is espionage activity going undetected at both public and private organisations,” he said.
Hampton said many company directors still believe New Zealand’s isolation provides protection, describing “Why would a foreign state be interested in us?” as a common refrain.
Intelligence reports show science and technology sectors face particular vulnerability, especially those with dual-use applications. Intellectual property may be targeted “for its potential use in military applications even if that wasn’t its intended purpose,” he said, adding that “certain foreign states see stealing innovation as a legitimate means of gaining an edge over their competitors, including New Zealand.”
Data-rich firms are also at risk. “Identity information is highly sought after by foreign state actors,” Hampton said.
Recent attempts by foreign actors to exploit New Zealand’s space industry prompted urgent legislative action. The NZSIS detected “a foreign state persistently and covertly try to take advantage of our geographic location… by trying to establish ground-based space infrastructure through third-party companies,” Hampton said.
He emphasised that effective security does not require costly solutions. “Simple, cost-effective measures can go a long way to protecting your ideas, reputations, and future success. It begins with adopting a strong security mindset.”
Insider threats also pose particular risks, with foreign states attempting to exploit employees. “A holistic security programme in any organisation should consider the risk that threats could emanate from an insider,” Hampton said, urging vigilance during overseas travel.
Hampton rejected the notion that security and growth conflict. “The reality is that you can’t have one without the other,” he said, citing an Australian assessment estimating espionage losses at $13.7 billion annually.
Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and risks, he added. “The use of AI to facilitate violent extremism and state-sponsored interference activities is increasing… States are using it more often in their intelligence collection operations and cyberattacks.”
Still, Hampton said collaboration could turn AI into a strength. New Zealand’s technology sector produces “small, niche and high-quality applications,” which could find markets among Five Eyes partners.
“Security is not an inhibitor to innovation or our future prosperity, but an enabler,” he said.
What steps should businesses take to strengthen their protection? Share your insights in the comments below.
