Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
The digital landscape has become a treacherous terrain for non-profit organizations, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups. A recent report by Cloudflare’s Project Galileo has revealed a staggering 241% surge in cyberattacks targeting these vulnerable public interest groups over the past year. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect these groups from malicious threats.
Project Galileo is a groundbreaking initiative that provides free cybersecurity protection to non-profits and independent media organizations. The project’s findings are based on an analysis of threats blocked between May 2024 and March 2025. During this period, Cloudflare’s team of experts blocked a staggering 109 billion threats, highlighting the sheer scale of the cyberattacks plaguing these organizations.
The surge in cyberattacks is a cause for concern, particularly for non-profit organizations that rely heavily on online donations and digital engagement. These groups often have limited resources and may not have the necessary expertise or infrastructure to effectively counter cyber threats. Independent media outlets, too, are vulnerable targets, as they often report on sensitive topics and are frequently threatened with legal action or intimidation.
So, what’s driving this surge in cyberattacks? Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Increased reliance on digital platforms: Non-profits and independent media outlets are increasingly relying on digital platforms to reach their audiences, share information, and raise funds. This increased online presence has made them attractive targets for cybercriminals.
- Lack of cybersecurity awareness: Many non-profits and independent media organizations may not have the necessary resources or expertise to implement robust cybersecurity measures, making them more susceptible to attacks.
- Political and ideological motivations: Cyberattacks are often motivated by political or ideological agendas. Non-profits and independent media outlets that challenge dominant narratives or report on controversial topics may be targeted by state-sponsored actors or other malicious actors seeking to silence them.
- Ease of launching attacks: The proliferation of automated tools and services has made it easier for cybercriminals to launch attacks, increasing the volume and sophistication of threats.
The consequences of these cyberattacks can be severe. Non-profits and independent media organizations may experience:
- Data breaches: Confidential information, including personal data and financial records, may be compromised, leading to reputational damage and financial losses.
- System downtime: Cyberattacks can bring down websites and online platforms, disrupting critical operations and damaging relationships with donors, supporters, and the public.
- Loss of trust: Repeated cyberattacks can erode public trust in non-profits and independent media outlets, making it harder to raise funds and attract support.
In response to this surge in cyberattacks, Cloudflare’s Project Galileo is providing critical support to vulnerable public interest groups. The initiative offers a range of services, including:
- Free cybersecurity protection: Cloudflare’s team of experts provides around-the-clock monitoring and protection against cyber threats, blocking millions of attacks daily.
- Customized security solutions: Project Galileo offers tailored security solutions to address the unique needs of each organization, including website security, email security, and network security.
- Cybersecurity awareness training: The initiative provides training and resources to help non-profits and independent media organizations improve their cybersecurity posture and respond effectively to attacks.
The surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is a wake-up call for these organizations. It’s essential to acknowledge the gravity of this threat and take proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity measures. By partnering with initiatives like Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, non-profits and independent media outlets can better protect themselves against cyber threats and continue to serve their critical roles in promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice.
Source: https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
