THE ROLE OF COMMUNITIES IN ENSURING DIGITAL SECURITY: PARTNERSHIP WITH THE POLICE IN THE FACE OF HYBRID THREATS

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technologies across all spheres of society is
accompanied by a growing number of hybrid threats, combining elements of
cybercrime, informational influence, social engineering, and manipulation in the
media space. In the context of war, political turbulence, and the informational
vulnerability of Ukrainian society, the issue of digital security has become
particularly urgent. Territorial communities, as the foundation of
decentralization, act not only as administrative units but also as active
participants in building national resilience to contemporary threats. This study
explores the potential of communities in detecting cyber threats, identifying signs
of disinformation, and countering the spread of fake campaigns. The most
effective response model is highlighted as systematic cooperation between
communities and law enforcement agencies, which includes not only the exchange
of information but also the creation of joint local initiatives in the fields of digital
education, online monitoring, and the development of informational literacy.
Special attention is given to the formation of digital culture as a key condition for
increasing collective awareness and responsibility. Examples are provided of the

establishment of local digital security centers, youth hubs, online platforms for
information verification, and educational projects aimed at enhancing critical
thinking. Sustainable development of a secure digital environment at the local
level is emphasized as a prerequisite for ensuring national security under
conditions of hybrid confrontation. The article proposes a vision of communities
as equal partners of the state in building a resilient digital ecosystem.