Internet operators have reason to fear: A new online security study reveals that those intent on attacking large websites are harnessing technology with the power to overwhelm entire corporate networks.

Attackers are using botnets that spread large amounts of data over the internet, known as distributed denial of service, or D.D.O.S., attacks. These cyberweapons have been used in political conflicts and blackmail schemes, according to The New York Times.

The report, conducted annually by Arbor Networks, collected information from 70 of the largest internet operators worldwide and found a rising trend of malicious attacks, as well as an increase in the level of harm they inflict on their targets. The largest attacks have grown to sizes over 40 gigabits, giving them the potential to easily overpower the largest network connections in existence, which carry only about 10 gigabits of data.

According to the report, network operators concede that cyberweapons continue to "outpace containment efforts and infrastructure investment." However, operators reported that they were able to respond better to D.D.O.S. attacks because of their improved relationships with service providers.