Half of critical private-sector networks hit by politically motivated cyber attacks

Half of the companies that provide critical infrastructure such as utilities or communication services have experienced politically motivated cyber attacks, according to a new report from Symantec. A survey of critical infrastructure providers found 53 percent suspected they had experienced an attack with a specific political goal in mind. The companies affected reported being attacked an average of 10 times over the past five years. Half said they expect another attack in the next year and 80 percent believe the attacks are becoming more frequent. The respondents said the majority of the attacks were somewhat to extremely effective and cost firms an average of $850,000 each.