PARIS – European financial regulators have warned that cyber risks are increasing rapidly due to advances in artificial intelligence and rising geopolitical tensions.
The head of the European Securities and Markets Authority said the speed and impact of cyberattacks are becoming more serious. She noted that new AI tools could make attacks faster and harder to detect.
Officials said financial institutions across Europe are being reviewed to assess their cybersecurity systems. The goal is to understand how well companies can defend against modern digital threats.
The regulator also said that AI development is changing how cyber risks appear. Some advanced models can potentially identify and exploit weaknesses in computer systems.
This has raised concern among financial supervisors, who are now working to strengthen oversight of digital infrastructure and third-party tech providers.
Authorities said the financial sector is under growing pressure to improve cyber defenses. They added that regulators must also upgrade their technical skills to keep up with evolving threats.
Experts warned that cyberattacks linked to AI could become more frequent and more sophisticated in the coming years.
European regulators are also monitoring technology firms that provide services to financial markets. Several companies have already been classified as critical service providers under new rules.
Officials said discussions are ongoing about whether AI companies should also be included in stricter supervision frameworks.
The regulator also highlighted that cyber risks could affect financial markets during periods of instability. Sudden attacks or breaches may lead to sharp market reactions.
At the same time, global financial markets remain highly valued, which increases concerns about potential shocks triggered by cyber incidents or other disruptions.
Authorities said they are also watching trading activity closely for suspicious movements during volatile periods.
In the crypto sector, regulators have given companies deadlines to obtain proper licenses or stop operations in the European Union.
Officials warned that monitoring the crypto space is also becoming a key part of cybersecurity oversight, as digital assets remain a target for attacks.
European regulators believe stronger coordination is needed across countries to manage growing cyber risks.
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They added that improving security systems, oversight tools, and cooperation will be essential to protect financial stability in the digital age.
