A/68/98 Report of the Group of Governmental Experts on Developments in the Field of Information and Telecommunications in the Context of International Security Summary Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have reshaped the international security environment. These technologies bring immense economic and social benefits. ICTs can also be used for purposes that are inconsistent with international peace and security, producing a noticeable increase in risk in recent years as they are used for crime and other disruptive activities. Malicious use of ICTs by actors who often operate with impunity is easily concealed and attribution to a specific perpetrator can be difficult. This creates an environment that facilitates the use of ICTs for increasingly sophisticated exploits. Member States have frequently affirmed the need for cooperative action against threats resulting from the malicious use of ICTs. International cooperation is essential to reduce risk and enhance security. Further progress in cooperation at the international level will require actions to promote a peaceful, secure, open and cooperative ICT environment. Cooperative measures that could enhance stability and security include norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviour by States, voluntary measures to increase transparency, confidence and trust among States and capacity-building measures. States must lead in these efforts, but effective cooperation would benefit from the appropriate participation of the private sector and civil society. Recognizing the comprehensiveness of the challenge, taking into account existing and potential threats, and building upon the recommendations contained in the report of the Group of Governmental Experts on Developments in the Field of Information and Telecommunications in the Context of International Security of July 2010 (A/65/201), the Group of Governmental Experts offers in the present report its recommendations to promote peace and stability in State use of ICTs. The report recognizes that the application of norms derived from existing international law relevant to the use of ICTs by States is essential to reduce risks to international peace, security and stability. The report recommends further study to promote common understandings on how such norms apply to State behaviour and the use of ICTs by States. Given the unique attributes of ICTs, the report notes that additional norms could be developed over time. The report reflects the Group’s conclusion that international law and in particular the United Nations Charter, is applicable and is essential to maintaining peace and stability and promoting an open, secure, peaceful and accessible ICT environment. The Group also concluded that State sovereignty and the international norms and principles that flow from it apply to States’ conduct of ICT-related activities and to their jurisdiction over ICT infrastructure with their territory; States must meet their international obligations regarding internationally wrongful acts attributable to them. The report contains recommendations on voluntary measures to build trust, transparency and confidence, as well as international cooperation to build capacity for ICT security, especially in developing countries. The Group 2 13-37166