What goes up must come down — especially when

you're talking about computer networks. This obnoxiously

common procedure allows NWO Operatives and other

hacker-magi to dig into linked Sleeper systems from a

distance, then wreck them. First, the malefactor locates the

Grid Sector that reflects the system she wants to trash.

Once keyed in, she sends an electromagnetic pulse into the

network, frying it. Although backups and protective programs

can shield even Sleeper networks from complete

devastation, the Crash makes a handy nuisance prog.

Against a mundane network — like a common office

system — it can be remarkably effective.

[Correspondence allows the hacker to locate and reach

the network, Forces misdirects the electrical currents, and

Prime fuels a sudden burst of energy. The procedure itself is

almost always coincidental, but sophisticated networks

require many successes to crash, and many more to completely

erase. Standard office systems are fiendishly easy

(one to three successes) to crash, while elaborate or shielded

ones like banks, archives or government data banks are far

harder (five to 10 successes) to wreck. Military, research

and magickal networks are damned difficult to wipe out (10

to 20 successes), but easier (five successes) to disrupt temporarily.

Most offices, of course, keep offline backups of all

important records.]