A radioactive source is a material or object that emits ionizing radiation. Depending on the isotope, quantity, shielding, and condition, it may require special handling, secure storage, transport controls, and professional disposal. The main risk is exposure: radiation can damage tissue even when the source looks harmless or inactive.
In cyber security, radioactive sources matter because many security teams also protect physical spaces such as labs, data centers, event venues, and hardware swap areas. A hazardous item found among ordinary equipment is a safety incident, not a curiosity. Defenders should isolate the object, limit handling, notify qualified responders, and follow documented escalation procedures. In real-world attacks, hazardous materials can be used to disrupt events, create panic, or force evacuations; in defense, screening, access control, and clear reporting lines help prevent that kind of disruption.