Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047

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Societal Impacts
journal homepage: www.journals.elsevier.com/societal-impacts

Open-source cyber intelligence research through PESTEL framework:

Present and future impact
Fahim K. Sufi
School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, 553 St. Kilda Rd., Level 4, Melbourne, VIC
3004, Australia

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Recent scholarly endeavors in the domain of Cyber Intelligence have unveiled its multifaceted implications,
Cyber intelligence intricately interwoven with various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably encompassing Goal 9 (In­
Sustainable open-source intelligence dustry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Goal 16 (Peace, Justice
PESTEL framework
and Strong Institutions), among others. This study intricately dissects the symbiotic nexus between Cyber In­
Future directions of cyber research
Societal impact of cyber
telligence research and these SDGs, whilst simultaneously unraveling its profound reverberations across the
diverse dimensions of the PESTEL (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal)
framework. Ten critical impacts inherent in current research works on cyber intelligence were identified, sub­
sequently juxtaposing these impacts within the PESTEL dimensions. This analytical process further unraveled an
additional eleven critical impacts yet to be addressed by current research works on cyber intelligence. Addressing
these additional 11 impacts in forthcoming research endeavors is posited as a catalyst for optimizing societal
benefits across the diverse spectra of PESTEL dimensions. Moving on from categorizing and classifying societal
impacts of cyber research within PESTEL framework, this study finally establishes a strategic roadmap of 11
future research directions on cyber intelligence like sustainable cyber security practices, mental health aspects of
cyber victimhood, ethical AI in cybersecurity among others. Fostering a cross-disciplinary dialog, this work
contributes to the broader discourse on harnessing cyber intelligence for societal betterment, mitigating the
potential detrimental effects cyber threats.

SPECIFICATIONS TABLE (All sections are mandatory unless

marked otherwise)

E-mail address: fahim.sufi@monash.edu.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socimp.2024.100047
Received 11 December 2023; Received in revised form 8 February 2024; Accepted 12 February 2024
Available online 15 February 2024
2949-6977/© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-
nc-nd/4.0/).
F.K. Sufi Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047

Subject area 1710

Category/ Education
categories of Political
societal impact Economic
Societal
Technological
Environmental
Legal
Sustainable Please select SDGs from the list below. You can select multiple SDGs.
Development GOAL 4: Quality Education
Goals (SDGS) the GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
research GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
contributes to GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
GOAL 15: Life on Land
GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
Resource [1]https://app.powerbi.com/view?
availability r=eyJrIjoiMzRmNjU2YjItNDk2Zi00YWU3LThjYzctYmIyOGYwYzQ1OWExIiwidCI6IjBkMWI4YmRlLWZmYzEtNGY1Yy05NjAwLTJhNzUzZGFjYmEwNSJ9
[2]https://app.powerbi.com/view?
r=eyJrIjoiYWJjOGY5YTUtZDBlNy00MTg1LWFkMTMtM2RmYzYzODQ1NzE1IiwidCI6IjBkMWI4YmRlLWZmYzEtNGY1Yy05NjAwLTJhNzUzZGFjYmEwNSJ9.
Related research [1] F. Sufi, "A global cyber-threat intelligence system with artificial intelligence and convolutional neural network," Decision Analytics Journal, vol. 9, no. 100364,
article OR 2023, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dajour.2023.100364
Related [2] F. Sufi, "Social Media Analytics on Russia–Ukraine Cyber War with Natural Language Processing: Perspectives and Challenges," Information, vol. 14, no. 9, p. 485,
supporting 2023, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/info14090485
information [3] F. Sufi, "Novel Application of Open-Source Cyber Intelligence," Electronics, vol. 12, no. 17, p. 3610, 2023, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12173610
Please provide a [4] F. Sufi, "A New AI-Based Semantic Cyber Intelligence Agent," Future Internet, vol. 15, no. 7, p. 231, 2023, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/fi15070231
link to the [5] F. Sufi, "A New Social Media-Driven Cyber Threat Intelligence," Electronics, vol. 12, no. 5, p. 1242, 2023, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12051242
webpage if [6] F. Sufi, "Algorithms in Low-Code-No-Code for Research Applications: A Practical Review," Algorithms, vol. 16, no. 2, p. 108, 2023, DOI: https://doi.
relevant org/10.3390/a16020108
Stage of research In Progress

1. Social impact utilization of social media data.

In light of contemporary scholarly investigations, it has become
increasingly evident that cyber-attacks manifest profound influences at
both psychological and behavioral strata, precipitating far-reaching
ramifications at the societal echelon [1]. Beyond the societal sphere,
these incursions in the digital domain have exhibited multifaceted re­
percussions, encompassing economic, commercial, cultural, and
governmental domains, thereby underscoring their pervasive and com­
plex nature [2]. The collection of six academic papers ([3–8]) provides a
profound contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) [9]
from the perspective of Cyber Intelligence using publicly accessible in­
formation, aligning with the overarching goal of advancing societal
well-being and fostering a deeper understanding of critical issues. These
recent studies hold significant social importance and can lead to trans­
formative impacts on various levels.
Most recent research work in [3] pioneers a global cyber intelligence
solution integrating artificial intelligence and convolutional neural
networks, offering a groundbreaking approach to country-wide cyber
threat analysis. The study in [3] introduces a global cyber-threat intel­
ligence system, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning,
thereby contributing to Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
By autonomously collecting and analyzing multidimensional
cyber-attack data, the proposed system aids in creating a resilient and
innovative foundation for addressing the growing challenges in the
cyber realm. This work is crucial in achieving Goal 16: Peace and Justice
Strong Institutions, as it facilitates evidence-based decisions on global
cyber threats, promoting a secure and just digital landscape.
The research paper in [4], focusing on the Russia–Ukraine cyber war,
the authors leverage social media analytics and natural language pro­
cessing to contribute to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By
unveiling unprecedented insights into cyber incidents and public senti­
ment, the research enhances understanding of complex cyber conflicts,
ultimately fostering sustainable and secure communities. Additionally,
the paper aligns with Goal 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal, as it
encourages collaboration in addressing global cyber threats through the
The research work in [5] on open-source cyber intelligence directly
addresses Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. By automating the
generation of country-level cyber intelligence, the authors contribute to
the well-being of societies by enhancing their resilience against cyber
threats. The innovative approach presented in this paper aligns with
Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, as it promotes
responsible practices in handling cyber-related data.
Moving to the study in [6], which advocates for an AI-based semantic
cyber intelligence agent, the authors contribute to Goal 8: Decent Work
and Economic Growth. The proposed solution enhances the speed and
comprehensiveness of cyber intelligence, creating opportunities for
economic growth while addressing the challenges posed by cyber
threats. Additionally, the research aligns with Goal 15: Life on Land, as it
strives to mitigate the adverse effects of cyber threats on individuals’
psychological well-being.
Literature in [7] addresses the projected USD 10.5 trillion in dam­
ages from cyber threats in 2025, presenting a social media-driven cyber
threat intelligence framework that employs AI and Natural Language
Processing (NLP) to comprehend contextual information and generate
countrywide threat indexes. By generating countrywide threat indexes,
the research aids decision-makers in adjusting cyber preparedness, thus
mitigating the detrimental impacts of cyber threats on societies. The
work aligns with Goal 13: Climate Action, as it seeks to address the
projected damages from cyber threats in 2025.
Finally, [8] reviews algorithms in low-code-no-code platforms,
emphasizing Goal 4: Quality Education. By exploring the use of these
platforms in various research domains, the authors contribute to the
democratization of knowledge and the advancement of education. The
practical implementation of a cyber-attack monitoring algorithm aligns
with Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, as it promotes clean and secure
digital environments.
In essence, these research works (i.e., [3–8]) significantly contribute
to the common effort to improve society by addressing diverse societal
goals and values outlined in the SDGs [9]. In the broader context, cyber
intelligence research works in [3-8] predominantly focus on addressing

2
F.K. Sufi
Fig. 1. Generic Methodology of obtaining Open-Source Cyber Intelligence as per [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8].
Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Goal 11 (Sus­
tainable Cities and Communities), identifying them as the paramount
SDGs. They offer practical insights and solutions to pressing issues in the
cyber domain, fostering a safer, more innovative, and interconnected
global society.
2. Methodology
The research methodology across the six studies as represented in
[3–8] involves a systematic integration of advanced technologies, pri­
marily AI and NLP, to address complex issues in the field of cyber in­
telligence. The following key components encapsulate the overarching
methodology:
2.1. AI integration
Systematic deployment of AI techniques for autonomously collecting
and analyzing multidimensional cyber-attack data.
• Consistent utilization of deep learning for anomaly detection and
prediction.
• Integration of advanced AI algorithms for sentiment analysis, loca­
tion detection, translation, and other analytical dimensions.
2.2. Open-source data utilization
Open-Source data refers to information that are publicly accessible
and available. Automated generation of country-level cyber intelligence
through the amalgamation of social media posts and open-source cyber-
attack statistics as shown in Fig. 1.
• Application of AI-based algorithms, including deep learning and
prediction algorithms, to derive actionable insights.
• Utilization of diverse open-intelligence cyber-attack statistics from
multiple web links.
2.3. Multilingual analysis
Comprehensive analysis of social media data, particularly Twitter,
from a diverse user base spanning multiple languages.
• Application of NLP algorithms, including language detection, trans­
lation, sentiment analysis, topic analysis, and thematic analysis.
3
Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047
These advanced algorithms help us understand Twitter conversa­
tions and content much like how humans understand using their
brains.
• Examination of geopolitical, socioeconomic, psychological, and so­
cietal dimensions in the cyber intelligence framework.
2.4. Low-code-no-code platforms
Low-code-no-code platforms are software development platforms
that enable users to create applications with minimal or no coding skills,
typically through visual interfaces and pre-built components.
• Identification of research works using platforms such as Microsoft
Power Automate, Microsoft Power BI, Microsoft SQL Server as
depicted in Fig. 1.
• Practical demonstration of implementing a cyber-attack monitoring
algorithm using low-code platforms, emphasizing the accessibility
and applicability of the approach in multiple platforms (e.g., iOS,
Android, Windows). As shown in Fig. 1, this innovative architecture
allows fully automated cyber identification and analysis in a more
sustainable manner with pervasive accessibilities in all computa­
tional ecosystem.
Collectively, this methodology provides a transferable and replicable
framework that leverages advanced technologies, ensuring universal
accessibility and applicability. The use of AI, NLP, publicly available
data, and low-code platforms demonstrates a commitment to improve
social conditions and to understand cybersecurity challenges in a uni­
versally comprehensible manner. This innovative approach was
formerly applied to analyze worldwide events for anomaly detection,
prediction, root-cause analysis, and the identification of correlated
factors [10] [11].
3. Results and implications
These research works present 10 critical societal impacts as critically
analyzed in Fig. 2. Fig. 2 refrains from assigning a specific ranking to the
10 critical social impacts, acknowledging that diverse strategic per­
spectives may lead to varying prioritizations. Within the scope of this
study, these 10 critical societal impacts were identified, then these
critical societal impacts were framed within the dimensions of Political,
Economic, Social, Technological, Environment, and Legal (PESTEL) in
Fig. 3. Next, 11 more societal impacts within PESTEL framework that
F.K. Sufi Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047

Fig. 2. Critical societal Impact already achieved with research in [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8].

could be addressed by future studies were identified (as depicted in
Fig. 4). Finally, the 11 possible societal impacts were translated into 11
future direction of research, so that a pervasive impact on all dimension
of PESTEL could be harnessed.
3.1. Impacts of current research on PESTEL dimensions
3.1.1. Cybersecurity enhancement
• Advanced AI Tools: Development of sophisticated AI-driven cyber­
security tools for improved threat detection and prevention.
• Robust Defense Mechanisms: Strengthening of cybersecurity mea­
sures in both public and private sectors to mitigate data breaches.

This section describes the 10 critical impacts by the studies in [3] [4] 3.1.2. National security strengthening
[5] [6] [7] [8] as shown in Fig. 2.
• Infrastructure Protection: Enhanced tools for monitoring and pre­
dicting cyber threats to safeguard national infrastructure.

Fig. 3. Critical Societal impacts achieved by [3–8] in multiple dimensions of PESTEL.

4
F.K. Sufi
Fig. 4. 11 critical societal impacts required to be addressed in future.
• Governmental Response Efficiency: Improved government capabil­
ities to anticipate and respond effectively to cyber-attacks.
3.1.3. Economic damage control in cybersecurity
• Reduced Financial Losses: Early detection and prevention of cyber
attacks to minimize economic impacts on businesses.
• Market Stability Preservation: Protection of business assets to
maintain market stability and consumer trust.
3.1.4. AI and ML technological leap
• AI Boundary Expansion: Pushing the boundaries in AI and machine
learning, especially in deep learning and NLP.
• Innovation Catalyst: Encouraging further exploration and innovation
in AI, with potential cross-disciplinary breakthroughs.
3.1.5. Strategic cybersecurity decision-making
• Data-Driven Strategies: Enabling decision-makers to formulate
effective cybersecurity strategies based on current trends and
predictions.
• Effective Outcome Assurance: Ensuring more effective cybersecurity
outcomes through informed decision-making.
3.1.6. Cyber threat awareness and education
• Elevation of Public Awareness: Increasing public knowledge about
the prevalence and sophistication of cyber threats.
• Promotion of Safe Online Practices: Educating individuals and or­
ganizations on cybersecurity importance for safer online behavior.
5
Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047
3.1.7. Global cybersecurity collaboration
• International Cooperation Enhancement: Fostering international
collaboration in combating cybercrime and cyber warfare.
• Global Standards Development: Contributing to the development of
global cybersecurity standards and protocols.
3.1.8. Social media in cyber intelligence
• Real-Time Information Source: Highlighting social media’s role as a
valuable source of real-time cyber threat intelligence.
• Security and Intelligence Diversification: Opening new avenues for
using social media analytics in broader security and intelligence
contexts.
3.1.9. Cyber policy and regulation influence
• Guidance on crafting Effective Policies: Providing insights to inform
policymakers in crafting effective cyber laws and regulations.
• Balanced Policy Development: Aiding in the development of policies
that balance security, privacy, and ethical considerations.
3.1.10. Improved cyber crisis management
• Enhanced Crisis Response: Aiding in faster and more accurate re­
sponses to cyber incidents for better crisis management.
• Strategic Response Planning: Helping in the development of con­
tingency plans and strategies for organized responses to cyber
emergencies.
The culmination of these research endeavors as represented in [3–8]
yields profound implications for the advancement of knowledge in
addressing cyber threats and fostering societal well-being. The outcomes
underscore several key points with broad implications in society as
shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3.
F.K. Sufi
Fig. 5. Future research endeavors on Cyber Intelligence for maximizing societal impact.
The research aligns with multiple SDGs, particularly Goals 9 (In­
dustry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and
Communities), and 17 (Partnerships to achieve the Goal), emphasizing
the interdisciplinary nature of cyber intelligence and its impact on so­
cietal well-being. As opposed to Fig. 3 (that shows critical societal
impact already realized by [3–8]), Fig. 4 strategically posits 11 more
critical societal impacts that needs to be addressed in future. Addressing
these 11 critical impacts in next phases of research in cyber intelligence
would ensure maximum benefit for the society at multiple PESTEL
dimensions.
3.2. Future research direction
Addressing these additional areas of impact (as shown in Section 3.1
and Fig. 4) in automated cyber intelligence solutions requires a multi­
faceted approach in future research. Here are 11 potential future
research endeavor to materialize possible impacts depicted in Fig. 5:
3.2.1. Geopolitical dynamics and cyber intelligence
• Research on the influence of cyber intelligence in international re­
lations and its impact on global power shifts.
• Studies on the use of cyber intelligence in understanding and coun­
tering foreign influence operations, especially in sensitive geopolit­
ical contexts.
6
Societal Impacts 3 (2024) 100047
3.2.2. Election security enhancement
• Development of advanced algorithms for detecting and mitigating
cyber threats specifically targeting electoral systems.
• Research on combating misinformation and ensuring the integrity of
information during election cycles using AI-driven tools.
3.2.3. Cybersecurity solutions for SMEs
• Designing cost-effective, scalable cyber intelligence tools tailored for
small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Studies on the unique vulnerabilities of SMEs and development of
specialized training programs to enhance their cyber resilience.
3.2.4. Cybersecurity insurance and risk analytics
• Integrating advanced cyber intelligence insights into cybersecurity
insurance models and risk assessment frameworks.
• Research on predictive analytics for cyber risk management and its
application in the insurance industry.
3.2.5. Bridging the digital divide in cybersecurity
• Investigating strategies to provide equal access to cyber intelligence
tools across different socio-economic groups.
• Developing community-focused cyber intelligence education and
awareness programs.
F.K. Sufi
3.2.6. Mental health aspects of cyber victimhood
• Studies on the psychological impact of cyber-attacks and the devel­
opment of support systems for victims.
• Integration of psychological insights into the design of cyber intel­
ligence tools to provide more empathetic responses to victims.
3.2.7. Ethical AI in cybersecurity
• Research on ethical frameworks and guidelines for the use of AI in
cybersecurity, focusing on bias mitigation and transparency.
• Development of AI auditing methods to ensure ethical compliance in
automated cyber intelligence solutions.
3.2.8. Quantum computing and cybersecurity preparedness
• Exploring the implications of quantum computing on current
encryption methods and cyber intelligence practices.
• Initiating research on quantum-resistant algorithms and security
protocols.
3.2.9. Sustainable cybersecurity practices
• Investigating the environmental impact of cybersecurity operations
and developing green computing practices in cyber intelligence.
• Research on energy-efficient AI algorithms and sustainable data
center designs.
3.2.10. International cyber law and governance
• Studies on the development of international legal frameworks and
standards for cyber intelligence activities.
• Research on cross-border cyber law enforcement cooperation and
jurisdictional challenges.
3.2.11. Privacy and data protection in cyber intelligence
• Balancing effective cyber intelligence with privacy rights, focusing
on consent, data minimization, and transparency.
• Developing privacy-preserving AI techniques for cyber intelligence,
like federated learning and differential privacy.
These future research directions aim to address the complex and
evolving landscape of cyber threats and the societal implications of
automated cyber intelligence solutions, ensuring they are effective,
ethical, and equitable. As seen from Fig. 5, the highlighted social im­
pacts visible within the Now phase have been realized with Release 1.0
of the cyber intelligence solution. Next versions of the solutions (e.g.,
Research 1.1, Release 2.0, and Release 2.1) will address future research
endeavors specified within Next and Later phases.
In conclusion, these studies advance knowledge by providing
actionable insights into cybersecurity challenges. The outcomes high­
light the potential for global collaboration, the accessibility of advanced
technologies, and the alignment with broader sustainable development
goals. By transcending specialized language and fostering interdisci­
plinary conversations, the implications of this work extend beyond the
specific field of cyber intelligence, contributing to the broader dialog on
achieving beneficial societal impacts and reducing harmful effects.
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Acknowledgements
The author would like to thank Prof. Edris Alam of Emergency &
Disaster Management, Rabdan Academy, Abu Dhabi, UAE for evaluating
and providing his valuable feedback on Cyber Intelligence app. Also,
Special thanks to the COEUS Institute, Kennebunk, Maine, USA, where
the author works as a Chief Technology Officer.
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