Cyberterrorism: What it is, how it strikes online, and how to prepare and respond

Cyberterrorism

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Cyberterrorism

What it is

Cyberterrorism is using computers and the internet to frighten, disrupt, or harm people and organizations—at scale. Instead of bombs or break-ins, attackers use hacks, fake messages, and takedowns to shut services, spread fear, or pressure governments and companies.

What it looks like 

  • Website and service takedowns (DDoS): flooding a site so citizens can’t get news or services.

  • Hacks and data leaks: stealing sensitive files, then publishing them to intimidate.

  • Ransomware & malware: locking systems to halt hospitals, transport, or utilities.

  • Disinformation & phishing: crafted messages to mislead, panic, or gain access.

Why it’s different

The goal isn’t just money - it’s impact and fear: interrupt emergency lines, jam public portals, or erode trust in official info.

How to reduce the risk 

  • Harden the basics: MFA everywhere, patch fast, least-privilege access.

  • Protect the edge: WAF/DDoS shielding, rate limits, and geo/IP rules.

  • Plan and practice: incident runbooks, backups you’ve actually restored, and clear comms templates.

  • Train people: spot phishing, verify urgent requests out of band, report quickly.

If you’re targeted

  1. Stabilize services (activate DDoS protection, switch to read-only modes if needed).

  2. Contain and investigate (isolate infected hosts, preserve logs, rotate credentials).

  3. Communicate clearly to users and partners; don’t speculate.

  4. Restore from clean backups and review gaps before re-opening everything.

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