Cyberattacks on Non-Profits & Journalists Surge 241% in a Year
The world is facing an unprecedented surge in cyberattacks, and nowhere is this more evident than in the non-profit and journalism sectors. According to a recent report by Cloudflare Project Galileo, the number of cyberattacks targeting these vulnerable groups has skyrocketed by a staggering 241% over the past year. This alarming increase in cyberattacks poses a significant threat to the integrity and effectiveness of these organizations, which are often already struggling to make ends meet.
Cloudflare Project Galileo is an initiative that provides free cybersecurity protection to public interest groups, including non-profits, independent media, and civil rights organizations. The project’s latest data reveals that between May 2024 and March 2025, it blocked a staggering 109 billion threats. This is a staggering number that highlights the severity of the cyberattack problem facing these organizations.
So, what’s behind this surge in cyberattacks? There are several factors at play here. For one, non-profits and independent media outlets often lack the resources and expertise to defend themselves against sophisticated cyber threats. They may not have the budget to hire expensive cybersecurity consultants or invest in advanced security software, making them an attractive target for hackers.
Another factor is the growing importance of these organizations in the digital age. Non-profits and independent media outlets play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and providing a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. As a result, they have become increasingly valuable targets for hackers seeking to disrupt the flow of information and silence dissenting voices.
Journalists, in particular, are at risk of being targeted by cyberattacks. As they investigate and report on sensitive topics, they may attract the attention of malicious actors seeking to silence them or compromise their reporting. This can lead to a range of attacks, from phishing and malware to doxxing and physical intimidation.
The consequences of these cyberattacks can be severe. In addition to the financial costs associated with responding to and recovering from attacks, non-profits and journalists may also face reputational damage, loss of public trust, and even physical harm. In some cases, attacks may even lead to the shutdown of entire organizations, leaving communities without vital services and support.
So, what can be done to address this surge in cyberattacks? First and foremost, it’s essential that these organizations prioritize cybersecurity. This means investing in robust security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. It also means educating staff and volunteers about the risks of cyberattacks and the importance of staying vigilant.
Another crucial step is to build partnerships with other organizations and stakeholders to share information and resources. Cloudflare Project Galileo is a great example of this, providing a collective defense against cyber threats through its network of protected organizations. This approach can help to amplify the impact of individual organizations’ efforts and provide a more comprehensive defense against cyberattacks.
Finally, it’s essential that governments and policymakers take notice of this surge in cyberattacks and take action to support these vulnerable organizations. This can include providing targeted funding for cybersecurity initiatives, offering training and resources for non-profits and journalists, and promoting international cooperation to combat cybercrime.
In conclusion, the surge in cyberattacks on non-profits and journalists is a serious and growing concern. These organizations play a vital role in our society, and it’s essential that we take steps to protect them from these threats. By prioritizing cybersecurity, building partnerships, and advocating for policy change, we can help to keep these organizations safe and ensure that they can continue to do the important work they do.
Source: https://geekflare.com/news/cyberattacks-on-nonprofits-journalists-surge-241-in-a-year/
