Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
The non-profit sector, independent media outlets, and civil rights organizations have been facing an unprecedented surge in cyberattacks over the past year. According to a recent report by Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, the number of cyberattacks targeting these vulnerable public interest groups has increased by a staggering 241% within the past 12 months.
Project Galileo is a free cybersecurity protection initiative that provides vital security services to organizations that are often under-resourced and lack the necessary expertise to defend against cyber threats. The initiative has been instrumental in blocking nearly 109 billion malicious threats between May 2024 and March 2025 alone.
The alarming rise in cyberattacks on non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations is a cause for concern, as these groups are often the backbone of a healthy and functioning society. They work tirelessly to promote social justice, protect human rights, and hold those in power accountable. However, their ability to carry out their mission is being severely compromised by these relentless cyberattacks.
The Cloudflare report highlights the stark reality that the non-profit sector, in particular, is a prime target for cybercriminals. This is not surprising, given the sensitive nature of the work that these organizations do. Non-profits often handle confidential information, such as personal data, financial records, and intellectual property, which makes them an attractive target for hackers.
The report also notes that independent media outlets are another group that has been disproportionately affected by cyberattacks. Journalists and media organizations are often the frontlines of reporting on corruption, human rights abuses, and other social issues, making them a threat to those who seek to silence them.
The surge in cyberattacks on non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations is a reflection of the growing polarization and political unrest in society. As tensions rise, so does the likelihood of cyberattacks being used as a tool to disrupt and silence those who are perceived as threats to the status quo.
The consequences of these cyberattacks can be severe, ranging from financial losses to reputational damage and even the erosion of trust in these organizations. For non-profits, the impact can be particularly devastating, as they often rely on donations and grants to carry out their work. A successful cyberattack can compromise their ability to raise funds, leading to a ripple effect that can have far-reaching consequences for the communities they serve.
So, what can be done to mitigate the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations? Firstly, it is essential to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity and the risks that these groups face. This includes educating staff, board members, and volunteers about the threats they face and the measures they can take to protect themselves.
Secondly, non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations should prioritize cybersecurity as a critical aspect of their operations. This includes implementing robust security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, as well as conducting regular security audits and penetration testing.
Thirdly, governments and technology companies must do more to support these vulnerable groups. This includes providing adequate funding for cybersecurity initiatives, such as Project Galileo, and offering resources and expertise to help non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations protect themselves against cyber threats.
Finally, it is essential to recognize that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue, but also a social and political one. It requires a collective effort to address the root causes of cyberattacks, including the growing polarization and political unrest that is driving these attacks.
In conclusion, the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations is a wake-up call for all of us. It highlights the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity and the need for collective action to protect these vulnerable groups. As we move forward, it is essential that we work together to create a safer and more secure online environment for all.
Source: https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
