cyberterrorism

or cy·ber ter·ror·ism

[ sahy-ber-ter-uh-riz-uhm ]

noun

, Computers.

1. computer-based attacks aimed at disabling vital computer systems so as to intimidate, coerce, or harm a government or section of the population.

cyberterrorism

/ ˈsaɪbəˌtɛrərɪzəm /

noun

1. the illegal use of computers and the internet to achieve some goal

Derived Forms

• ˈcyberˌterrorist, noun

Other Words From

• cy·ber·ter·ror·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of cyberterrorism¹

First recorded in 1990–95; cyber- ( def ) + terrorism ( def )

Example Sentences

Russia annexed Crimea, is preparing to attack Ukraine, meddled in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, promoted cyberterrorism, jailed a prominent opposition leader, and murdered those who oppose and publicize corruption.

From Washington Post

On Tuesday the government published a new cyberterrorism law that makes it illegal to use telecommunications to post “offensive” material that disrupts public order or hurts the “prestige” of the country.

From New York Times

The decree also bans “cyberterrorism” aimed at subverting order or destabilizing the country, categorizing it as a crime of “very high” danger.

From Seattle Times

But we must also find solutions to the climate crisis, to cyberterrorism, to our energy needs, as well as preparing for the coming of AI.

From Scientific American

“They always use cyberweapons against other countries and they are carrying out cyberterrorism in the world as a government.”

From Washington Times