Cyberattacks on non-profits & journalists Surge 241% in a year

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 a staggering 241% over the past year. This alarming trend has been documented by Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, a free cybersecurity protection initiative that safeguards vulnerable public interest groups from online threats.

According to the latest data released by Cloudflare, Project Galileo has blocked an astonishing 109 billion threats between May 2024 and March 2025 alone. This surge in cyberattacks highlights the growing vulnerability of non-profit organizations, journalists, and civil rights organizations, which often lack the resources and expertise to defend themselves against sophisticated online attacks.

The rise in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is a concerning development that threatens the very fabric of our society. Non-profit organizations, in particular, play a vital role in promoting social causes, advocating for human rights, and providing critical services to marginalized communities. Journalists, on the other hand, are the guardians of truth and play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable.

The increasing frequency and severity of cyberattacks on these groups have far-reaching consequences. Not only do they put the organizations’ data and operations at risk, but they also undermine the trust and confidence of their supporters and the public at large. In an era where online presence is crucial for any organization, the impact of a successful cyberattack can be devastating.

So, what’s driving this surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists? There are several factors at play:

1. Increased online presence: Non-profit organizations and journalists are increasingly relying on the internet to reach their audiences, disseminate information, and mobilize support. This increased online presence has made them more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
2. Lack of resources: Many non-profit organizations and journalists lack the financial resources and technical expertise to invest in robust cybersecurity measures, leaving them exposed to attacks.
3. Sophistication of attacks: Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using advanced tactics such as phishing, malware, and social engineering to launch attacks.
4. Political motivations: Some cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists may be politically motivated, aimed at silencing dissenting voices or disrupting the work of organizations that challenge the status quo.

The statistics are grim. According to Cloudflare’s data, the number of cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists surged by 241% between May 2023 and March 2024. This represents a significant increase in the frequency and severity of attacks, which is likely to have serious consequences for these organizations.

The impact of these attacks is far-reaching. Non-profit organizations may experience:

1. Data breaches: Cyberattacks can result in the theft or destruction of sensitive data, compromising the organization’s ability to operate effectively.
2. Service disruptions: Attacks can disrupt the organization’s online services, causing inconvenience and financial loss.
3. Reputational damage: Successful cyberattacks can damage the organization’s reputation, undermining trust and confidence among supporters and the public.

Journalists and independent media organizations are also at risk. Attacks on their online presence can:

1. Suppress free speech: Cyberattacks can silence journalists and independent media organizations, suppressing their ability to report on important issues and hold those in power accountable.
2. Undermine trust: Attacks can erode trust in the media, making it more difficult for journalists to gather information and report on important stories.
3. Disrupt the flow of information: Cyberattacks can disrupt the flow of information, making it harder for the public to access vital information and stay informed.

In light of these findings, it’s essential that non-profit organizations, journalists, and civil rights organizations take immediate action to protect themselves against cyberattacks. This includes:

1. Investing in robust cybersecurity measures: Organizations should invest in robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular software updates.
2. Implementing secure communication protocols: Organizations should implement secure communication protocols, such as encrypted email and messaging apps, to protect sensitive information.
3. Educating staff and supporters: Organizations should educate their staff and supporters on cybersecurity best practices, including password management, phishing awareness, and safe browsing habits.
4. Seeking help from cybersecurity experts: Organizations should seek help from cybersecurity experts to assess their vulnerabilities and implement effective security measures.

In conclusion, the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is a wake-up call for all of us. It highlights the growing vulnerability of these organizations and the need for immediate action to protect their online presence and the information they gather and disseminate. As we move forward, it’s essential that we prioritize cybersecurity and work together to create a safer online environment for all.

Source: https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/