Protecting Your Digital World: Understanding Common Cyber Attacks
Modern life has become significantly more convenient thanks to a plethora of digital devices and the internet that powers them. However, with every technological advancement comes a corresponding increase in cybersecurity threats. According to data from Threat Cloud, a cybersecurity company, more than 4 million cyberattacks occur every day worldwide.
In this post, we'll highlight and discuss common cyberattacks that individuals and organizations might encounter.
Attack 1: Password Cracking
Hackers employing password cracking, also known as password hacking, attempt to decipher or obtain passwords using various automated methods and specialized tools. Password-related issues account for 80% of breaches, according to data from Cloud Nine. Cybercriminals use tactics such as phishing, keylogging, and dictionary password assaults to obtain legitimate passwords.
Keylogging involves the installation of malicious software, known as a keylogger, on a victim's device to record keystrokes. Dictionary password assaults involve guessing passwords by attempting words, phrases, and numbers commonly used as passwords.
Attack 2: DDoS Attacks
A Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attack occurs when a perpetrator overwhelms a server with internet traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users. DDoS attacks can last from a few hours to several months and are often executed using malware-infected devices, forming a botnet under the hacker's control.
Attack 3: Malware
Malware, short for malicious software, encompasses a range of harmful programs designed to infiltrate, exploit, and manipulate computer systems. Examples include viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, and adware. Each type of malware serves different purposes, such as stealing sensitive information, providing remote access to infected systems, or conducting surveillance.
Attack 4: Phishing Attacks
Phishing involves attackers masquerading as trustworthy entities to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information or performing actions that compromise security. Phishing emails often contain links to fake websites or malicious attachments, aiming to deceive recipients into revealing personal or financial details.
Attack 5: Malvertising
Malvertising refers to the dissemination of malware through online advertisements. Cybercriminals exploit legitimate ad networks to deliver malware-laden ads to unsuspecting users, leading to infections and other security risks.
Attack 6: Drive-by Downloads
Drive-by downloads exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to infect devices with malware without the user's knowledge or consent. Users may inadvertently download malicious software by visiting compromised websites or clicking on malicious links.
Attack 7: Rogue Security Software
Rogue security software masquerades as legitimate antivirus programs but is actually malware designed to scam users. Once installed, rogue security software can cause various issues and may even trick users into paying for fake security services.
Attack 8: Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks
MITM attacks involve intercepting and relaying messages between two parties, allowing attackers to eavesdrop on or manipulate communications. These attacks pose a significant threat to online security, as they can result in the theft of sensitive information such as login credentials and financial details.
Protect Your PC/Mobile Device
- Install internet security software on your devices.
- Secure your Wi-Fi hotspot with a strong password.
- Use an ad blocker to prevent malicious advertisements.
- Exercise caution when opening email attachments from unknown sources.
- Keep your web browsers and software up to date.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
- Verify the legitimacy of email addresses and websites before interacting with them.
At Annexus, we provide physical security solutions to help you understand and protect your digital world. Schedule a free evaluation today to learn more about how we can safeguard your online presence.
