With Cyberwar Close At Hand What Do You Need To Do To Stay Safe?

Surviving a Cyberwar: Navigating Critical Infrastructure Disruptions and Financial Challenges

In an increasingly interconnected world, the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, including power grids, water supplies, and financial systems, to cyberattacks during a cyberwar is a pressing concern. While such scenarios are a cause for worry, knowing how to respond effectively can make a substantial difference. This article explores essential strategies for individuals and communities during a cyberwar when critical infrastructure is affected, banks are incapacitated, and parts of the internet are unavailable.

In actuality, much od what you should do to survive a cyberwar we already for as hurricane preparation. A cyberwar will be a lot like a natural disaster, except that it could be much longer in duration.

Prioritize Safety and Survival

The first and foremost concern during a cyberwar is personal safety. In a situation where critical infrastructure like electricity and water services may be compromised, individuals should prepare for potential disruptions. Basic emergency kits, including water, non-perishable food sufficient for 30 days, flashlights, and essential medications, can be life-saving.

Communication Alternatives:

With parts of the internet potentially unavailable due to cyberattacks, it’s essential to have alternative means of communication. Consider maintaining a battery-operated or hand-crank emergency radio for access to vital information. Additionally, establish a local communication network with neighbors or community groups to share updates and support one another.

Energy Conservation:

In the absence of stable electricity, conserving energy is crucial. Reduce your reliance on power-intensive devices, such as heating and cooling systems. Opt for energy-efficient lighting and limit the use of electronic devices. If possible, invest in backup power solutions, such as solar panels or generators, to ensure a stable power supply.

Water Preservation:

During a cyberwar, water supply may be disrupted. Conserve water by minimizing unnecessary use, fixing leaks, and collecting rainwater. A water purification system or portable filters can provide access to safe drinking water in emergencies.

Banking and Financial Preparedness:

In a scenario where banks are affected by cyberattacks, access to funds and financial services may be disrupted. It’s essential to be financially prepared:

• Cash Reserves: Maintain a reasonable amount of cash at home to cover immediate needs. In a cyberwar, ATMs and electronic banking services may be unreliable. A couple of thousand is recommended. Tradeable goods can also be important, such as batteries.
• Diverse Banking Options: Diversify your banking arrangements to include both physical branches and online services. While online systems may be vulnerable, physical branches may still offer some services.
• Emergency Budget: Create an emergency budget that outlines essential expenses and ways to minimize discretionary spending during disruptions.

Food Security:

Ensuring access to food is vital during a cyberwar. Consider the following:

• Stockpile Non-Perishables: Build a food reserve of non-perishable items, including canned goods, rice, pasta, and dried foods sufficient for 30 days. Be sure you have enough items that do not require electricity or gas in case those services are unavailable.
• Gardening: If possible, start a home garden to supplement your food supply. Fresh produce can be a valuable asset during disruptions.

Security Measures:

In times of crisis, concerns about personal security arise. Ensure that your home is secure and consider community safety efforts. In some cases, neighborhood watch programs can be an effective way to enhance security.

We also recommend that you have a weapon at home.

Community Building:

Community resilience is critical during a cyberwar. Building strong community bonds can help share resources and support one another during disruptions. Consider participating in or organizing community emergency preparedness programs.

Stay Informed:

Despite internet disruptions, local news outlets and emergency broadcast systems may still be available. Stay informed about developments, government instructions, and safety recommendations. Reliable sources of information are invaluable in times of crisis.

Government and Emergency Services:

Contact local government agencies and emergency services to inquire about available assistance and support. During a cyberwar, governments often establish emergency response measures and may provide essential services to affected communities.

Digital Hygiene:

While parts of the internet may be compromised, practicing good digital hygiene remains essential. Protect your personal devices from cyber threats by using updated antivirus software and strong, unique passwords. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files.

This also includes protecting your digital life. Download a copy of everything since online services will likely be targets. Save copies of everything onto external detachable hard drives that you can keep physically safe. This includes:

• Social media profiles
• Photos
• Documents
• Videos and other recordings

Essential Preparation

Remember, in a cyber attack against our infrastructure it all depends on the type of damage. If it is a simple temporary outage, it is easy to wait it out. But if it results in significant equipment damage it could take a month or more to repair. This means you could be without running water or electricity for months,

30 Day Emergency Kit:

• Water: At least one gallon of water per person per day for at least 30 days.
• Non-Perishable Food: A 30-day supply of non-perishable food items, such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits.
• Manual Can Opener: For opening canned food.
• First Aid Kit: Including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and necessary medications. Remember, hospitals might not be functioning.
• Prescription Medications: A 30-day supply of any prescription medications.
• Flashlights: With extra batteries to last a month. Batteries are also tradeable items!
• Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: For weather updates and emergency information.
• Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: For various tasks.
• Blankets and Sleeping Bags: For warmth and comfort, especially if there is no heat.
• Cash: In small denominations, as ATMs may not work during power outages or banking incapacitation. We recommend a couple thousand dollars.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Including soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer for at least 30 days.
• Local Maps: In case GPS or online maps are unavailable.
• Important Documents: In a waterproof container, such as identification, insurance policies, bank account information, and medical records. What is stored in the cloud may be destroyed or unavailable, print out your important documents and keep them safe.
• Disposable Plates and Utensils: For eating without water if necessary for at least 30 days.
• Plastic Bags: For waste disposal since there may be no trash services.
• Fire Extinguisher: For small fires that may occur since emergency services may be attacked as well.

Communication:

• Cell Phone with Solar Chargers: Ensure your phone is charged and consider a portable solar charger or power bank.
• FRS personal radios are not expensive and very useful.
• Emergency Contact Information: Have a list of emergency contacts, including friends and family members written on paper.
• Radio: Battery-operated or hand-crank emergency radio for updates.

Personal Safety:

• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates and government alerts.
• Follow Official Instructions: Abide by evacuation orders and follow advice from local authorities.
• Stay Indoors: During the hurricane, stay inside, away from windows, and take shelter in a small, windowless interior room if possible.
• Emergency Contact: Ensure a designated friend or family member knows your whereabouts and emergency plans.
• Pet Preparedness: If you have pets, include their food, water, and medications in your kit, and have a plan for their safety. You will need to stock at least 30 days of dry pet food.
• Have a weapon: emergency services may be unresponsive if they are attacked, It is advisable to have protection in your home at least.

Preparedness is key to ensuring your safety during a cyberwar. Remember that planning ahead can make a significant difference in protecting your well-being and the well-being of your loved ones during a time of global and national attack.

Summary

It’s important to be aware that while cyber warfare is a rapidly growing concern, especially right now, it’s also in the interest of most nations to avoid such conflicts due to the potential for widespread damage and instability – however terrorist organization and their allied supporters do not care about who they hurt.

While the prospect of a cyberwar and potential disruptions to critical infrastructure and financial systems is a concerning one, preparedness, community building, and a clear-headed approach to these challenges can make a significant difference. Adapting to changing circumstances, prioritizing safety, and staying informed are all key elements to navigating such scenarios effectively. By taking proactive steps, individuals and communities can increase their resilience in the face of cyber threats and emerge from these challenges stronger.

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