Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
In today’s digital age, non-profit organizations, independent media outlets, and civil rights groups are increasingly becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. According to a recent report, the number of cyberattacks on these vulnerable public interest groups has surged by a staggering 241% over the past year. This alarming trend is a wake-up call for organizations to take immediate action to protect themselves against these threats.
The report, shared by Cloudflare’s Project Galileo, highlights the severity of the situation. Project Galileo is an initiative that provides free cybersecurity protection to vulnerable public interest groups, including non-profits, independent media, and civil rights organizations. Between May 2024 and March 2025, Cloudflare’s Project Galileo blocked a staggering 109 billion threats, a clear indication of the magnitude of the problem.
The rapid growth in cyberattacks targeting non-profits and journalists is attributed to various factors. One of the primary reasons is the increased reliance on digital platforms for fundraising, advocacy, and communication. Non-profits, in particular, have had to adapt to a digital landscape to reach a wider audience and engage with their supporters. This shift has made them more vulnerable to cyber threats.
Another factor contributing to the surge in cyberattacks is the growing importance of independent media outlets. With the rise of social media, independent journalists and media outlets have become essential voices in the fight for truth and accountability. However, this has also made them targets for cybercriminals seeking to silence their voices or spread disinformation.
The consequences of these cyberattacks can be devastating. Non-profits may lose sensitive donor information, compromising their ability to fund their work. Independent media outlets may face censorship, destruction of their online presence, or even physical harm to their journalists. Civil rights organizations may have their vital work disrupted, allowing oppressive regimes to silence their voices.
The report highlights the need for these organizations to take proactive measures to protect themselves against cyber threats. Some key recommendations include:
- Implement robust cybersecurity measures: Non-profits, independent media, and civil rights organizations must prioritize cybersecurity by implementing robust measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection, and encryption.
- Educate staff and volunteers: It is crucial to educate staff and volunteers on cybersecurity best practices, including avoiding suspicious links and attachments, using strong passwords, and reporting suspicious activity.
- Regularly update software and systems: Keeping software and systems up-to-date with the latest security patches is essential to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.
- Conduct regular security audits: Regular security audits can help identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses, allowing organizations to take corrective action before they are exploited.
- Seek support from experts: If your organization lacks the expertise or resources to handle cybersecurity threats, consider seeking support from experts who can provide guidance and protection.
The surge in cyberattacks on non-profits, journalists, and civil rights organizations is a clear indication of the gravity of the situation. It is imperative that these organizations take immediate action to protect themselves against these threats. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, educating staff and volunteers, and seeking support from experts, they can reduce the risk of being targeted by cybercriminals.
As we move forward, it is essential that we recognize the importance of cybersecurity in the non-profit sector. We must work together to create a more secure environment for these organizations to operate, ensuring that their vital work is not disrupted by cyber threats.
Source:
https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
