Australia expresses its strong support for the EU's decision to issue sanctions against cyber criminals for malicious cyber activity targeting the EU and Ukraine.

Australia stands in solidarity with the EU in taking this important step in the fight against cybercrime and commends the EU for this action, its first use of sanctions against cyber criminals.

Cybercrime is a global scourge, and it is important to stand together in efforts to combat it, to end the anonymity and impunity with which cyber criminals believe they operate. Sanctions serve as a deterrent for those who would engage in such illegal activity.

Australia has also used its autonomous cyber sanctions framework in recent months to disrupt and deter the perpetrators of malicious cyber activity, such as ransomware. Australia will continue to use sanctions to deter and respond to malicious cyber activity, consistent with our national interests.

Australia is proud to stand with the EU in this effort.