what is cyber terrorism

Cyberterrorism is the use of the internet to conduct violent acts that result in, or threaten, the loss of life or significant bodily harm, in order to achieve political or ideological gains through threat or intimidation. It is defined as disruptive attacks by recognized terrorist organizations against computer systems with the intent of generating alarm, panic, or the physical disruption of the information system. Cyberterrorism involves the same techniques as traditional cyberattacks, such as DDoS attacks, various forms of malware, social engineering strategies, phishing campaigns, and more to reach their targets. The fear of cyberterrorism may be manipulated and exaggerated, but we can neither deny nor ignore it. Success in the "war on terror" is likely to make terrorists turn increasingly to unconventional weapons, such as cyberterrorism. Cyberterrorism causes responses similar to conventional terrorism, which seeks to undermine civilians resilience by instilling a sense of fear and vulnerability that erodes confidence in the ability of the government and law enforcement agencies to protect citizens against future attacks. Cybersecurity resilience is a top priority for the Department of Homeland Security and its components, investigating malicious cyber activity, and advancing cybersecurity alongside democratic values and principles.