Danish companies and top executives are facing a significantly heightened risk of attacks aimed at compromising their operations and harming employees, according to Jakob Scharf, former head of the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET). Scharf, now director and co-owner of the security company Certa, emphasizes that this escalating threat is a direct consequence of Denmark’s strong support for Ukraine, making Danish entities prime targets for hostile actors, potentially linked to the Kremlin.

Scharf highlights that private companies are now exposed to more severe and diverse security threats than ever before. He refrained from naming specific companies or individuals, citing confidentiality. However, he affirmed that the analysis is based on concrete observations and that many threats and attacks go unreported.

He cited past incidents, such as burglaries at Finnish waterworks, as potential reconnaissance efforts for future sabotage. Similar attacks and alleged sabotage have occurred in allied nations like Norway, Germany, Great Britain, Poland, and France, involving arson, hacking, train derailments, and cable cuts, suggesting a coordinated hybrid warfare strategy.

In Denmark, the liberalization of critical infrastructure, now largely managed by private companies, further increases vulnerability. Scharf noted that energy companies, water supplies, and the telecommunications sector are prime targets for hostile actors.

The threat extends beyond national borders, with global risks affecting even local companies. Scharf mentioned orchestrated smear campaigns online, cyberattacks aimed at stealing or locking data for ransom, as examples of tactics used against companies.

According to Scharf, the motive behind these attacks is to undermine public confidence in politicians and society, thereby weakening support for Ukraine. He asserts that hostile powers are actively mapping companies vital to Danish society, with the intent of gaining access to critical infrastructure for potential sabotage operations.