cyberterrorism

Cyberterrorism is the use or threat of computer-based activity to intimidate governments or civilian populations in order to advance political, ideological, or religious objectives. The definition is contested, with some observers limiting it to non-state actors employing cyber means to coerce or frighten, and others including state-sponsored actions or attacks framed as political coercion. The term is often distinguished from cybercrime, which seeks financial gain or disruption without explicit political aims, and from cyberwarfare, which is conducted by states during armed conflict.

Tactics used in cyberterrorism can include denial-of-service campaigns, malware and wiper attacks, data breaches, attributions and manipulation of information, and attempts to disrupt critical infrastructure such as energy grids, transportation, and healthcare systems. Attacks may aim to cause fear, undermine confidence in institutions, or force political concessions. Targets commonly include government networks, public services, media outlets, financial systems, and essential services.

Historical discussion of cyberterrorism emphasizes contested attribution and impact. Some incidents—such as large-scale cyber disruptions attributed to state or non-state actors—are cited in debates about cyberterrorism, but clear proof of intent to coerce crowds or governments in the name of terror remains complex and debated. Researchers and policymakers focus on resilience, rapid attribution and response, and the development of norms and legal frameworks to deter use of cyber means for political violence.

Policy responses include strengthening critical infrastructure defenses, international cooperation, law enforcement capacity, and guidelines for attribution and proportional response, while balancing civil liberties and privacy concerns.