Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
The digital landscape has become increasingly treacherous for non-profit organizations, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups. According to the latest statistics, cyberattacks targeting these vulnerable public interest groups have surged by a staggering 241% over the past year. This alarming trend is a cause for concern, as these organizations play a crucial role in promoting social justice, transparency, and accountability.
The data was shared by Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, a free cybersecurity protection initiative designed to safeguard vulnerable public interest groups from online threats. Between May 2024 and March 2025, Project Galileo has successfully blocked an unprecedented 109 billion threats, highlighting the enormity of the problem.
The surge in cyberattacks is a threat not only to the organizations themselves but also to the causes they represent. Non-profits, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups rely heavily on digital platforms to operate, communicate, and mobilize their supporters. With the increasing frequency of cyberattacks, these organizations risk losing their online presence, compromising their reputation, and undermining their ability to deliver their services.
The motives behind these cyberattacks are multifaceted. Some attackers aim to disrupt the operations of these organizations, while others seek to steal sensitive information, extort donations, or spread disinformation. In some cases, cyberattacks are perpetrated by nation-state actors or criminal organizations, highlighting the global nature of this problem.
The types of attacks are also diversifying, making it more challenging for these organizations to defend themselves. Phishing, malware, ransomware, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks are just a few examples of the tactics being used. The attackers are also becoming more sophisticated, using advanced techniques such as social engineering and whaling to compromise sensitive information.
The consequences of a successful cyberattack can be devastating. Non-profits, in particular, are often under-resourced and lack the expertise to effectively respond to and recover from a cyberattack. This can lead to a loss of public trust, damage to their reputation, and a decline in donations. Independent media outlets, on the other hand, may face censorship, self-censorship, or even forced shutdowns. Civil rights organizations, meanwhile, may struggle to maintain their online presence, making it difficult to mobilize their supporters and advocate for their causes.
So, what can be done to address this growing problem? For starters, non-profits, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups must prioritize cybersecurity and invest in robust protection measures. This includes implementing robust firewalls, regularly updating software and plugins, and conducting regular security audits.
They should also consider partnering with organizations like Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, which offers free cybersecurity protection to vulnerable public interest groups. By leveraging the expertise of cybersecurity professionals, these organizations can enhance their defenses and stay ahead of the latest threats.
Moreover, governments and policymakers must take a more active role in addressing this issue. They can start by providing more resources and support to non-profits, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups to help them build their cybersecurity capacities. Governments can also work to strengthen international cooperation and information sharing to combat the global nature of cyberattacks.
Finally, the general public can play a crucial role by reporting suspicious activity and being vigilant about online threats. By working together, we can create a safer and more secure digital environment for all.
In conclusion, the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. These organizations are the backbone of our society, and it is essential that we protect them from online threats. By prioritizing cybersecurity, partnering with organizations like Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, and working together, we can create a safer and more secure digital environment for all.
Source:
https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
