The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed it was targeted by a “sophisticated” cyber attack last week, marking the second major cybersecurity breach it has suffered in recent years. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and integrity of the tribunal’s digital infrastructure and its ability to protect sensitive information.
In a statement released Monday, the ICC said the attack “was swiftly discovered, confirmed, and contained” through its existing alert and response mechanisms. A court-wide impact analysis is currently underway, with urgent steps already being taken to assess damage and mitigate any long-term effects.
While the ICC did not disclose the full scope or origin of the breach, it emphasized the attack’s complexity and intent—indicating a likely effort to infiltrate or disrupt its judicial operations.
Security Threats Targeting Global Justice
This is not the first time the ICC has been compromised. In 2023, the Court experienced another targeted and highly sophisticated cyber attack, which it linked to espionage efforts. That incident came at a time of heightened global tension and direct threats against ICC officials, judges, and staff. It also revealed an “almost successful attempt” by a hostile intelligence agent to infiltrate the Court under the guise of an intern.
The Court said such attacks are serious attempts to undermine its mandate and credibility. “As part of broader assessment into potential actions by threat actors, the Court has also identified that disinformation campaigns targeting the ICC and its officials may be anticipated to be launched in an effort to tarnish the ICC image and delegitimize its activities,” the statement added.
Strengthening Digital Security Measures
Following the 2023 breach, the ICC began reinforcing its risk management systems and fast-tracked initiatives to enhance its cybersecurity defenses. These measures include more robust internal protocols, tighter access controls, and increased monitoring to detect potential threats in real time.
Despite these efforts, the recurrence of another high-level attack indicates that the ICC remains a high-value target for actors intent on obstructing international justice. The tribunal stressed that safeguarding its systems is critical to maintaining public trust and ensuring the safety of confidential information, including data related to ongoing investigations and witness protection.
Call for International Support
The ICC is now urging the international community and State Parties to remain vigilant and provide the necessary support to strengthen the Court’s digital resilience. “Such support ensures the Court’s capacity to implement its critical mandate of justice and accountability, which is a shared responsibility of all States Parties,” it said.
As cyber threats grow more complex and coordinated, the ICC’s experience highlights the urgent need for global institutions to invest in comprehensive digital security measures. For justice to prevail in the modern world, courts must be as protected online as they are within their walls.
