Reaction Paper

______________________________________________________________________

An Output Presented

Department of Teachers Education

UM Tagum College, Tagum City

In Partial fulfillment

Of the requirements

For the Science Technology and Society

______________________________________________________________________

Members

AQUINO, KENNETH

CENABRE, JAYCEL

COLORINES, GERICO

TUQUIB, RYAN

VILLACUER, ANDRIE PHILLIP

MAY 2024
Introduction

A cyber-attack is an attempt by individuals to steal a person’s information through

unauthorized access to the computer. These attacks can take many forms, including
ransomware, which locks the victim’s computer. The person can only unlock his/her
laptop after he/she paid the ransom issued by the hacker. Another type of cyber-attack
is phishing which tricks the user into disclosing personal information. Others may use a
specific type of malware which allows the hacker to destroy the software and steal the
user's files. Cyber-attacks can cause significant damage, and financial losses, and
disrupt services. The government must invest to protect the citizen’s information in this
digital era.

The article highlights several cyber-attacks which pose a serious threat to the
national security and stability of the Philippines. With a 325% increase in malicious
cyber-attack activity during the first months of 2024 it raises concerns and questions
about cyber security vs data breaches. Aside from the ongoing tensions in the West
Philippine Sea most specifically the Spratly Islands, the Philippine government is facing
other problems that are related to cyber-attacks. Hacktivists inside the country might be
connected to big hacking organizations overseas. Exodus security and Deathnote
Hackers, for example, conduct a DDos attack and breaches. This type of attack
destabilizes the government institution. This must be the focus because aside from
data breaching and stealing it is also the way for the other nation to spy. The recent
attacks from overseas have targeted the government’s online systems and domain. The
government right now is concerned with these attacks and by that, they are trying to
increase its cyber defense by cooperating with allies nationally and internationally.

Main Body

The most distressing element of this cyber onslaught is its effect on regular
residents. Misinformation spreads like wildfire, breeding confusion and fear. It’s
heartbreaking to peer communities divided by using fake narratives and to witness the
overall public’s developing distrust in digital systems and governmental establishments.
 It worries me as a Filipino to think that there is always a cyber-threat against our
country. Cyberattacks are vulnerable not only because they threaten critical
infrastructure but also because they undermine trust, the foundation of our society.
These predatory acts undermine our trust in our government, our digital security, and
the information we process. The idea that a large percentage of what we read and
consider to be true can be influenced by other influences is frightening.

Deliberately spreading misinformation is probably the worst part. Seeing how

easily fake news can influence public opinion and sow discord within communities hits
close to home. We often rely on digital channels for news and information, but when
those platforms are compromised, this trust becomes disastrous. We have noticed how
family and friends sometimes share questionable information without corroboration,
which is a direct result of these misinformation campaigns. It’s sad to see your loved
ones confused and torn apart over misinformation.

We find it disheartening to hear what seems like a grassroots group could be the
face of state-sponsored policies. Previously thought of as a morally responsible form of
digital terrorism, hacktivism now seems to have hidden goals. Society’s ability to
separate propaganda from truth is further complicated by this change, which in turn
undermines the work of good-hearted activists.

Moreover, reading about the current cyber threats in the Philippines is

enlightening and deeply troubling. It exposes the fragility of national security in the
digital age. The fact that ideological hacktivists can collaborate with nation-states or
have a passing interest in conducting such campaigns demonstrates the power and
impact of information warfare This not only undermines government policies but
credibility absence occurs in society as well, destroying the very fabric of social comfort.

As a digital citizen, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. The

case prompts reflection on the importance of internationalizing our responsibility to
protect the information, be vigilant about disinformation, and support policies that
enhance national cybersecurity unity, in general, is clear. Cyber threats know no
boundaries, and successfully addressing these challenges requires a coordinated global
team. Understanding that these cyberattacks are not only technological but also human
and social, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to the reasons and
motivations behind such actions as.

The situation in the Philippines is a poignant reminder that the stability of one
country in our interconnected world can have a devastating impact on a global scale.
This is a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize
cybersecurity and work together to protect the integrity of our digital and real-world
communities.

Ultimately, unity is needed in this situation. We must unite and assist our
institutions and one another in the face of external attacks. Cybercriminals and
hacktivists want to cut us aside, however, we want to build resilience and harmony
amongst ourselves. Our great line of defense against people who need to look at us as
weaker and greatly divided is our team spirit. By encouraging candid verbal exchange
and cooperation amongst diverse societal segments, we may additionally beef up our
institution's commitment. Together, community leaders, educators, and legislators need
to create complete plans that address the social in addition to technical additives of
cyber dangers.

Furthermore, it's vital to reinforce and rebuild public self-assurance in our

institutions. This may be carried out by having open traces of records from the
government concerning the forms of cyber threats and the efforts being made to counter
them. Reporting suspicious interests and collaborating in neighborhood-based totally
cybersecurity tasks need to be promoted by some of the public. We can guarantee that
everyone contributes to the defense of our virtual sovereignty by way of encouraging a
participatory method for countrywide safety.

Learning cybersecurity best practices have inspired us to take the initiative as

well as educate those around us. Encouraging critical thinking, emphasizing sources,
and recognizing the possibility of misinformation are some examples of how to do this
when dealing with information online. Our social networks can provide greater
knowledge and strength over time if we dispel myths and spread facts.
Conclusion

Our most valuable asset is unity, which we must keep in mind as we negotiate in
this complex digital environment together we overcome obstacles and emerge stronger
by resisting attempts to separate us. We can meet the challenges posed by cyber-
attacks and move forward as a successful nation, thanks to our collective tenacity and
commitment to the truth.

Our vulnerabilities within the virtual age are starkly delivered to light by the
upward thrust of incorrect information and hacktivism inside the Philippines amid
growing geopolitical tensions. Robust cybersecurity measures are desperately wished
for, as seen by the growing frequency of cyberattacks perpetrated by way of both
foreign and home entities. Along with undermining public self-belief and causing
uncertainty and panic in most of the populace, these strikes additionally goal essential
infrastructure. An extra knowledgeable and resilient society is critical given the
intentional manipulation of records, which impairs our ability to separate propaganda
from the real component.

Combating these problems requires a multi-faceted approach. To strengthen our

defenses, the government should work with foreign partners and invest in state-of-the-
art cybersecurity infrastructure. Public education efforts to combat misinformation
should emphasize the value of critical thinking and verification. Moreover, it is important
to maintain national unity. By encouraging transparent communication and cooperation
between social sectors, we can develop a collective security strategy to protect against
cyberattacks. When we encourage citizens to participate in community-based
cybersecurity projects and support open communication, public trust in our institutions
will grow.

In conclusion, the success of the Philippines highlights the value of a strong

system that includes global integration, public awareness, and technological security.
With determination and teamwork, we can protect our quasi-hegemony and ensure a
successful future for every Filipino.