Just as the seminal science fiction novel War of the Worlds predicted, it is the lowliest creatures on earth that can bring down the largest and strongest.

Originally (1898) it was bacteria that toppled the invading Martians. Later (1947), it was a moth that raised the specter of “bugs” infesting our latest technological wonder, the computer. Now, it appears, rats are capable of disrupting one of our most recent creations, the Internet.

An article from the AZCentral.com reports that rats chewed through some cabling in southern Arizona and disrupted internet service in Cochise County. Some cellular telephone service was also affected. Here in Arizona we have roof rats that gnaw on the copper wiring in the attics of houses, but this is the first case of fiber optic munching I’ve heard about.

So, take care innovators everywhere, if the competition doesn’t get you the germs and bugs and rats (Oh My!) are out there waiting in line.