cyberwars
Online military conflicts
Cyberwars are conflicts conducted through digital attacks on computer systems, networks, and infrastructure.
Nations or groups wage cyberwar by hacking, deploying malware, or disabling critical systems rather than using conventional weapons.
The term covers both actual state-sponsored attacks and hypothetical large-scale digital warfare: Experts warn that future cyberwars could cripple power grids.
Harmful computer programs
- ransomwareHostage-taking code
- phishingFraudulent credential harvesting
- DDoSTraffic flood attack
- zero-dayUnpatched security vulnerability
botnet · worm · virus · exploit · spyware · rootkit · backdoor · keylogger
Network access control system
- antivirusMalware detection program
- encryptionConverting data into code
- authenticationConfirming genuine identity
- VPNEncrypted network connection
cyberdefense · patch · resilience · hardening · monitoring · sandboxing · honeypot · mitigation
Unauthorized computer system intruders
- nation-statesSelf-governing territorial polities
- cybercriminalsOnline law breakers
- hacktivistsPolitical actors using cyberattacks
- AnonymousLeaderless hacktivist network
Lazarus · insiders · mercenaries · contractors · operatives
Computer-based intelligence gathering
- surveillanceSystematic observation of subjects
- intelligenceMental ability, cognitive capacity
- infiltrationCovert entry into organization
- reconnaissanceInformation-gathering before action
exfiltration · spycraft · eavesdropping · moles · state-sponsored · APT · covert · counterintelligence
Punitive international restrictions
- attributionAssigning origin or cause
- deterrencePrevention via threatened consequences
- escalationProgressive increase in intensity
- retaliationPunitive response to injury
Basic physical systems
- bankingFinancial institution transactions
- hospitalsInstitutions treating the sick
- electionsFormal choosing of officials
- governmentAuthority over a state
military · utilities · telecommunications · satellites · supply-chain · transportation
malware
Harmful computer programs
- ransomwareHostage-taking code
- phishingFraudulent credential harvesting
- DDoSTraffic flood attack
zero-day · botnet · worm · virus · exploit · spyware · rootkit · backdoor · keylogger · man-in-the-middle
firewall
Network access control system
- antivirusMalware detection program
- encryptionConverting data into code
- authenticationConfirming genuine identity
VPN · cyberdefense · patch · resilience · hardening · monitoring · sandboxing · honeypot · mitigation · recovery
hackers
Unauthorized computer system intruders
- nation-statesSelf-governing territorial polities
- cybercriminalsOnline law breakers
- hacktivistsPolitical actors using cyberattacks
Anonymous · Lazarus · insiders · mercenaries · contractors · operatives
cyberespionage
Computer-based intelligence gathering
- surveillanceSystematic observation of subjects
- intelligenceMental ability, cognitive capacity
- infiltrationCovert entry into organization
reconnaissance · exfiltration · spycraft · eavesdropping · moles · state-sponsored · APT · covert · counterintelligence · nation-state
sanctions
Punitive international restrictions
- attributionAssigning origin or cause
- deterrencePrevention via threatened consequences
- escalationProgressive increase in intensity
retaliation · proxy · sovereignty · norms · diplomacy · NATO · doctrine
infrastructure
Basic physical systems
- bankingFinancial institution transactions
- hospitalsInstitutions treating the sick
- electionsFormal choosing of officials
government · military · utilities · telecommunications · satellites · supply-chain · transportation
cyberwarsconventional warfare
Armed conflict using standard military forces
armed conflict · trench warfare · naval warfare · hand-to-hand combat · hot wars