Computer Hackers Block Government Web Sites

Australian officials announced on 11 February 2010 that sophisticated computer hackers have blocked Internet access to several government Web sites. A group of cyber-activists calling themselves “Anonymous” have blocked the main Australian government portal, as well as the official Web site of the Australian Parliament. Computer analysts claim that the disruption involves hackers from around the world deluging Web sites with Internet requests in what is known as a Distributed Denial of Service attack. The attack is seen as retaliation from international computer hackers who scoffed at the Australian government’s announced plans to develop a nationwide Internet filter. The Web service disruptions began on 10 February and officials have expressed concern that the disruptions could continue for months.