What could indicate an individual's intent to commit a cyber attack?

An expressed or implied threat is a strong indicator of an individual's intent to commit a cyber attack. When someone communicates a desire or intention to cause harm, whether directly or indirectly, it serves as a key red flag that their actions may be aligned with malicious intent. This could manifest as written or verbal threats made in various contexts, suggesting that the individual is planning or considering a cyber attack on a target. Such threats are often taken seriously by law enforcement and cybersecurity professionals as they provide insight into the mindset and motivations of potential offenders.

In contrast, frequent online shopping, participating in online forums, or maintaining a personal blog do not inherently signify intent to commit a cyber attack. These activities are common in everyday life and do not demonstrate any malicious intent or plans to engage in harmful actions against others.