Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
In a shocking revelation, the number of cyberattacks targeting non-profit organizations, independent media, and civil rights organizations has skyrocketed by an alarming 241% over the past year. This staggering rise in cyber threats has left many wondering about the vulnerability of these public interest groups, which often rely on donations and public trust to carry out their vital work.
According to a recent report by Cloudflare Project Galileo, a free cybersecurity protection initiative for vulnerable public interest groups, the surge in cyberattacks is nothing short of astonishing. Between May 2024 and March 2025, this initiative blocked a staggering 109 billion threats, a testament to the relentless barrage of attacks faced by these organizations.
But what’s behind this surge in cyberattacks? And what can these organizations do to protect themselves from these malicious threats? In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into the world of cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists, exploring the reasons behind this alarming trend and offering some practical tips for staying safe online.
Why Non-Profits and Journalists are Prime Targets
Non-profit organizations, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups are often seen as prime targets for cybercriminals. These entities are vulnerable to attack for several reasons:
- Limited Resources: Non-profits and independent media outlets often have limited budgets, making it difficult for them to invest in robust cybersecurity measures.
- Public Profile: These organizations often have a public profile, which can attract the attention of cybercriminals looking to exploit their reputation or sensitive information.
- Genuine Intent: Non-profits and journalists often work on sensitive and controversial issues, making them attractive targets for those seeking to disrupt their work or silence their voices.
- Lack of Awareness: Many non-profits and journalists may not have the necessary expertise or resources to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats, leaving them vulnerable to attack.
The Consequences of Cyberattacks
The consequences of cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists can be severe, ranging from financial losses to reputational damage and even physical harm. Some of the most common consequences include:
- Data Breaches: Cyberattacks can result in the theft or destruction of sensitive data, including personal information, financial records, and intellectual property.
- Reputation Damage: A cyberattack can damage an organization’s reputation, leading to a loss of public trust and financial support.
- Financial Losses: Cyberattacks can result in financial losses, including the cost of responding to the attack, repairing damage, and restoring services.
- Physical Harm: In some cases, cyberattacks can result in physical harm, including the disruption of critical infrastructure or the theft of sensitive information.
How Non-Profits and Journalists Can Protect Themselves
While the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is alarming, there are steps that these organizations can take to protect themselves:
- Implement Basic Security Measures: Ensure that all devices and software are updated with the latest security patches and that strong passwords are used.
- Use Security Software: Install reputable security software, including antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.
- Monitor Online Activity: Regularly monitor online activity, including website traffic, social media, and email, to detect and respond to potential threats.
- Train Staff: Provide training to staff on cybersecurity best practices, including how to identify and report suspicious activity.
- Seek Support: Consider seeking support from cybersecurity experts or organizations that specialize in protecting public interest groups.
Conclusion
The surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is a wake-up call for these organizations, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity measures and greater awareness of the threats they face. By implementing basic security measures, using security software, monitoring online activity, training staff, and seeking support, non-profits and journalists can reduce their risk of being targeted by cybercriminals.
As we move forward in a world where cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, it’s essential that we prioritize the protection of these public interest groups, which play a vital role in our society. By doing so, we can help ensure that their work continues uninterrupted, and that they can continue to make a positive impact on the world.
Source:
https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
