Question

Explain in your own words the differences between cyberterrorists, hacktivists and state-sponsored attackers. Which would you consider to be more dangerous to a corporate network, and why? Which would be more dangerous to a government network, and why?

Answer 1

Cyberterrorists are those attackers whose cyberattack is motivated by a political agenda against a specific group that may cause violence, whereas hacktivists are those attackers who may have a personal agenda, say, to defame a particular person or group or an entity they don't like, to standing up for a cause they believe is necessary whereas state sponsored attackers are those attackers who receive guidance, sponsorship and aid from a nation to promote nation's own interest.

For a corporate network, hacktivists are the most dangerous as they may have a personal interest to sabotage the organisation's reputation and they may use their attack to expose a corporate network's vulnerabilities.

For a government network, cyberterrorists are the most dangerous as to promote fear amongst the people or a minority, they are most likely to attack the political body representing their interests.