Hans Jonas’ concept of the “short arm” of predictive knowledge presents serious ethical challenges for contemporary cyber-policy. Before such an idea became part of every discourse today, ethical considerations were confined to immediate and local consequences of actions. However, in today’s digital landscape, even a single line of code or a change in infrastructure policy can bring about unforeseen global and long-term consequences. As our technological capabilities have grown faster than we can anticipate these consequences, adopting a “trial and error” approach to cyber-policy now presents greater risk and potential for “errors” that could be irreversible or pose existential threats. Jonas proposes the solution is in the Heuristics of Fear. The principle suggests that caution should be emphasized over optimism when constructing critical infrastructure. For instance, in building defense systems that leverage artificial intelligence or creating integrated power grids, policymakers should highlight their potential for catastrophic failure rather than the attractiveness of positive outcomes. This is a powerful prophylactic, allowing us to avoid the unknowns of the digital age and minimize the moral dangers that have come with our future technological advancements. This point of departure will compel a new approach to cyber-policy and a greater vigilance in our work keeping abreast of the opportunities for the best and the worst whilst pushing for the right results from innovation. By doing so, we may protect our society against the unforeseen consequences of our technological ambitions.