Are We Ready for the Digital Dark Age? Preparing for the Inevitable Outage
What if the internet simply… stopped? Not for a few hours due to a storm, but indefinitely, across a region or even the nation? The possibility of widespread disruption to electricity and internet access, whether from a cyberattack or infrastructure failure, is a growing concern. Most Americans aren’t prepared. A recent FEMA survey found that 57% of the country isn’t planning for a disaster.
The Growing Threat Landscape
Experts agree that a significant disruption is not a matter of “if,” but “when.” The electrical grid, approximately 120 years old, is increasingly vulnerable. Local and regional outages are already becoming more frequent. “I don’t think it is a matter of ‘if,’ it is simply a matter of ‘when,’” says security analyst Robert Siciliano.
Recent cyberattacks underscore this vulnerability. CISA is currently leading a unified federal-state response to a cyberattack in Nevada, focusing on restoring critical services. Buncombe County, North Carolina, also recently experienced a cyberattack that resulted in leaked information from its emergency alert system. These incidents highlight the real and present danger to essential infrastructure.
Building a Backup Internet Plan
Preparing for these disruptions requires a proactive approach. “Preparing for individual internet disruptions and power outages is straightforward – you require backup internet access methods and/or the ability to generate energy on your own,” explains Sean Gold, a prepper and emergency management expert.
Here’s a breakdown of options:
- Cellular Hotspot: A quick solution for short outages, but effectiveness diminishes with overloaded cell towers during widespread disruptions.
- Starlink & Satellite ISPs: Increasingly popular, even in less rural areas, offering internet access via satellite when traditional infrastructure fails. Starlink residential plans currently range from $80 to $120 per month, plus a $349 equipment cost.
- Hughesnet & Viasat: Alternative satellite internet providers, with plans starting around $50-$70 per month, often requiring a two-year contract.
Essential Tech & Supplies to Stockpile
Beyond internet access, having the right supplies is crucial. Consider these additions to your emergency kit:
- Power Bank: For charging devices during short power outages.
- Portable Power Station: A fuel-free alternative to generators, capable of powering essential appliances.
- Generator: A traditional backup power source, but requires careful operation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Flashlight: A simple but essential tool for navigating in the dark.
- Battery-Operated Radio: To receive news and information when other communication methods are unavailable.
Protecting Your Finances in a Digital Downturn
A prolonged internet outage could severely impact access to financial resources. “Nearly everyone across the nation accesses their bank accounts via the internet,” notes Chris Reynolds, dean of academic outreach at American Public University System. Having a small amount of cash in small bills, stored in a secure, waterproof location, is a prudent step. Prepaid debit cards can also provide access to funds if traditional banking systems are unavailable.
The Importance of a Family Emergency Plan
Technology is only part of the equation. A well-defined family emergency plan is equally important. Jeremy Gocke, CEO of Entropy Survival, recommends establishing a designated meeting place, a communication schedule, and a network of contacts to relay messages. “Start by accepting that if it can go down, it might,” Gocke advises. “Your brain and your preparedness become your most valuable tech.”
FAQ: Preparing for a Digital Disruption
Q: How reliable are satellite internet options during a major disaster?
A: While more resilient than terrestrial networks, satellite internet can still be affected by extreme weather conditions.
Q: Is Starlink worth the cost for backup internet?
A: It depends on your needs, and budget. If reliable internet access is critical, Starlink offers a robust solution, but it’s a significant investment.
Q: How much cash should I keep on hand for an emergency?
A: The amount varies depending on your circumstances, but having a few hundred dollars in small bills is a good starting point.
Q: What’s the best way to communicate with family if cell service is down?
A: Consider satellite messengers, CB radios, or walkie-talkies, and establish a pre-determined meeting place.
