Lessons from the Global Cyberattacks

Story Description:

A recent unprecedented global cyberattack was responsible for 75,000 different infections in more than 70 countries. The ransomware, which is a type of software that locks files and demands money to unlock them, took advantage of a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows. The worst of the attack is over, since a security researcher was able to effectively trigger a kill switch to stop the infection from spreading and Microsoft issued an emergency patch for its operating system. Listen to hear more about this cyberattack and what was learned.

Listening Comprehension Questions:

• In what ways was this attack an international issue?
• Why were computers in Russia especially vulnerable?
• Why were the reporters discussing the age of the person who created the kill switch?
• What was learned from this cyberattack?

Classroom Discussion Themes:

• What do you think computer companies should do to minimize the effects of cyberattacks?
• In your opinion, how could countries work together to prevent another cyberattack?

Listenwise helps teachers use stories from public radio in their classrooms. To find more stories and lessons for your middle and high school ELA, social studies, and science classrooms you can sign up for a free Listenwise account!

Teaching Strategies for using Listenwise.