Exploration of Cybersecurity Capabilities Using Clustering and Fuzzy Logic: A Global Study Based On The Global Cybersecurity Index

As nations advance their digital transformations, concerns over cybersecurity continue to increase. Cybersecurity involves a broad spectrum of measures, including specialized legislation, national policy implementation, critical infrastructure protection, and workforce training. These measures, collectively referred to as cybersecurity capabilities (CCs), are assessed using the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). This study assesses the CCs of various countries using clustering techniques and fuzzy logic. Countries are classified into three groups as follows based on their CCs: leaders in CC, moderate CC, and limited CC. Findings reveal that economic disparities considerably impact CC development, with high- and middle-income nations exhibiting stronger capabilities. This study highlights legislation as a crucial factor in fostering a robust cybersecurity ecosystem and identifies variations in cooperation abilities, particularly between OECD and non-OECD countries. “Technical” and “capacity development” challenges remain prominent for nations with limited CC. To enhance nations’ cybersecurity readiness, this study recommends implementing comprehensive national policies, fostering public–private collaborations, and investing in professional trainings.