Due to the evolution of sophisticated techniques, attackers can now target the systems of large and small organizations. Due to the increasing number of cyber threats and hackers, it is now important for employees and organizations to step up their efforts to prevent them from attacking their systems. Today, having a password to protect the system is no longer enough. We also need to protect our professional and personal data. Today, we will review the different types of cyber threats and attacks you could face.
Ransomware
A type of software program that can be used to encrypt files on a targeted system is called ransomware. It utilizes a robust encryption algorithm. The ransomware attackers use a unique key for each individual victim in order to prevent them from accessing their files. This ensures that the files are protected from different applications.
The creators of ransomware use this strategy to extort money from their victims. They then demand a huge ransom from their victims to decrypt their data. Unfortunately, this type of attack does not provide a guarantee of recovery.
Botnet Attacks
Originally, a botnet was conceptualized as a group of devices connected to the same network to carry out a specific task. Unfortunately, this has become a common technique used by hackers and bad actors to attack networks to insert malicious coding or malware into an accessed network. These attacks could be:
- Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks
- Stealing confidential data
- The spread of spam emails
A botnet attack is usually carried out against large organizations and businesses due to their massive amount of data. Through this method, the attackers can take over various devices and perform their evil acts for their own gain.
Social Engineering Attacks
Criminals use social engineering to steal the sensitive information of their victims. This technique usually involves displaying enticing advertisements and offers in order to trick their victims into entering their personal and financial details.
Cryptocurrency Hijacking
Due to the increasing popularity of digital currency and mining, cybercriminals are now turning to cryptocurrency hijacking. This attack involves gaining access to a victim’s computer system to mine virtual currency.
The victims of cryptocurrency hijacking are usually traders and investors. In this attack, the criminal uses a hidden program to inject mining codes into the system silently. This method ensures that the attacker has complete control over the resources of the targeted computer.
This mining technique is commonly used to mine Monero coins. Due to the complexity of the mining process, it consumes a lot of CPU resources, which can impact the system’s performance.
Phishing
A form of spam email that imitates a legitimate email is called phishing. It usually has a strong subject line and includes attachments that are usually related to an important message or an offer from a reputable company.
Phishing scams are the most common type of cyber attack that seek to steal the sensitive data of their victims, such as their bank account information, credit card numbers, and login credentials. To avoid falling victim to this type of attack, one should educate themselves about the different steps one can take to prevent it.