In cybersecurity, a nation-state actor refers to governments or state-sponsored groups engaging in cyber attacks or espionage. These actors typically have significant resources and advanced capabilities, allowing them to conduct sophisticated cyber operations.
Their motives often include political, economic, or military gain. Nation-state cyber activities can range from espionage and data theft to disrupting critical infrastructure and spreading disinformation. The involvement of state actors in cyber threats represents a significant challenge for cybersecurity at both national and global levels.