Experts Warn: Internet Collapse Looms — Prepare Now

The Growing Threat of Internet and Power Outages

It’s one thing when the internet goes down for a few hours because of a storm or a power outage, but what if it went down indefinitely, across an entire region or even the country? What if your state or a large part of the nation lost access to the internet or electricity due to a cyberattack, aging infrastructure, or a simple oversight like the federal government forgetting to pay a bill?

Do you have a plan for that?

According to experts, such scenarios are not just possible — they’re likely. In fact, a 2024 report by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) found that 57% of Americans aren’t prepared for, and aren’t planning to prepare for, a disaster.

This is concerning, as Robert Siciliano, a security analyst and author of “Identity Theft Privacy: Security Protection and Fraud Prevention,” warns that the electrical grid is over 120 years old and increasingly prone to failures. “I don’t think it is a matter of ‘if,’ it is simply a matter of ‘when.’” He adds that having backup food, water, batteries, and power should be a consideration for everyone.

Preparing for Digital Disasters

If you want to keep your tech running during a digital upheaval, consider these strategies:

• Create a backup internet plan: Having alternative ways to access the internet is crucial. A cellular hotspot can help for short outages, but if the problem is widespread, it may not work well due to overloaded cell towers.

• Consider satellite internet services: Companies like Starlink, Hughesnet, and Viasat offer satellite-based internet solutions. While Starlink can be expensive ($80 to $120 per month), it provides reliable connectivity even when traditional networks fail.

• Invest in portable power solutions: Power banks and portable power stations can keep your devices charged during short interruptions. Generators are another option, but they require careful handling to avoid dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Keep emergency cash on hand: If the internet goes down for a long time, accessing bank accounts and ATMs could become impossible. Experts recommend keeping a small amount of cash in a secure place and considering a prepaid debit card for emergencies.

Planning for Family Communication

In the event of an outage, staying in touch with loved ones becomes critical. Jeremy Gocke, CEO of Entropy Survival, suggests creating a “pre-internet failure family plan.” This includes:

• A designated meeting place for close family members.
• A communication schedule for those who live apart.
• A list of people who can relay messages to others.

Gocke also recommends using satellite messengers like the Garmin inReach Messenger, which allows communication even when cell towers are down. Other options include CB radios or walkie-talkies, especially if family members are within range.

Final Thoughts

Experts agree that the key to surviving a digital crisis is preparation. As Gocke says, “Start by accepting that if it can go down, it might.” Once you accept this reality, your brain and preparedness become your most valuable tools.

By taking steps now, you can ensure that you're ready for whatever the future holds — whether it's a minor disruption or a major catastrophe.

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