What are cyber security threats?A cyber security threat is a type of threat that targets computer networks, systems, and user data. These threats can come in the form of malware, phishing, and other malicious activity. Show
A cyber security threat is a type of threat that targets computer networks, systems, and user data. These threats can come in the form of malware, phishing, and other malicious activity. This page provides a guide to the most common types of cyber security threat, cyber attacks, and vulnerabilities. Learn more about the scale and nature of cyber crime Common cyber threatsBackdoor attacksA backdoor attack is a type of cyber attack where the attacker gains access to a system or network by bypassing security mechanisms. Once the attacker has gained access, they can then install malicious software or perform other malicious actions. FormjackingFormjacking is a type of cyber attack where malicious code is injected into a web page that uses a form. This then collects sensitive information (such as credit card details) from unsuspecting users who later enter it into the form. The stolen information is then sent to the attacker, who can use it for fraudulent purposes. Learn more about formjacking CryptojackingCryptojacking is a type of cyber attack in which a criminal hacker hijacks a victim’s computer to mine cryptocurrency. The hacker typically does this by embedding malicious code in a website or email, which causes the victim’s computer to mine cryptocurrency without their knowledge or consent. This can slow down the victim’s computer and consume their electricity, which can lead to higher bills. In some cases, cryptojacking can also cause physical damage to the victim’s computer. DDoS attacksA DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attack is a type of cyber attack where a malicious actor tries to disrupt a network by overwhelming it with traffic from multiple sources. This can be done by overloading the target with illegitimate requests or by sending a large amount of data to overload its systems. Learn more about DDoS attacks DNS poisoning attacksDNS poisoning is a type of DNS attack where malicious actors change the records that a server uses to direct traffic to the right websites. This can cause the name server to return the wrong IP address for a given domain name, redirecting traffic intended for a legitimate website to the attacker’s website. DNS poisoning can be used to carry out a variety of attacks, including man-in-the-middle attacks, phishing attacks and malware distribution. MalwareMalware is a type of software that is designed to harm a computer, server or network. It can be used to steal information, delete files or damage equipment. This includes:
Common cyber attacksCyber criminals deliver malware and other threats via cyber attacks. They might use the following: Drive-by downloadsA drive-by download is a type of malicious code execution that occurs without the user’s knowledge or permission. This can happen when the user visits a malicious website or clicks a malicious link. Drive-by downloads can install malware on the user’s computer, steal sensitive information or allow the attacker to take control of the user’s computer. Exploits and exploit kitsAn exploit is a piece of malicious code that can compromise a security vulnerability. Many have been developed by the security services. For instance, in 2017, the WannaCry ransomware spread using an exploit known as EternalBlue. This exploit had been created by and stolen from the US National Security Agency. Exploit kits are collections of multiple exploits. Available for rent on the dark web, they enable unskilled criminals to automate attacks on known vulnerabilities. MITM attacksAn MITM (man-in-the-middle) attack occurs when a a hacker inserts themselves between a device and a server to intercept communications. MITM attacks often happen when a user logs on to an insecure public Wi-Fi network. Attackers can insert themselves between a visitor’s device and the network. The user will then unknowingly pass information through the attacker. Phishing attacksPhishing is a method of social engineering used to trick people into divulging sensitive or confidential information, often via email. Not always easy to distinguish from genuine messages, these scams can inflict enormous damage on organisations. Learn more about phishing Social engineeringSocial engineering is used to deceive and manipulate victims to obtain information or gain access to their computer. This is achieved by tricking users into clicking malicious links or by physically gaining access to a computer through deception. Learn more about social engineering SQL injectionAn SQL (Structured Query Language) injection is when a user inputs SQL code into a web form to gain access to data that they are not supposed to have access to. This can be used to view data that is normally not viewable, delete data or even modify data. VulnerabilitiesVulnerabilities are the security flaws in your systems that cyber attacks exploit. The top vulnerabilities are readily available online for the benefit of security professionals and criminal hackers alike. All a criminal needs to be able to exploit them is a malware toolkit and an online tutorial. No coding knowledge is required. Targeted attacks are more labour-intensive, but, again, rely on tools that are designed to exploit vulnerabilities. Types of cyber security vulnerability include the following:
Read more about patch management Free infographic: What are the major types of cyber attack?Download our free infographic to for a handy guide to the major types of cyber attack you might encounter. Download now Start your journey to being cyber secure todayIT Governance has a wealth of experience in the cyber security and risk management field. We have been carrying out cyber security projects for more than 15 years. We have worked with hundreds of private and public organisations in all industries. All our consultants are qualified and experienced practitioners. Our services can be tailored for organisations of all sizes in any industry and location. Browse our wide range of products below to kick-start your cyber security project. What is the #1 cybersecurity threat today?1) Phishing Attacks
The biggest, most damaging and most widespread threat facing small businesses are phishing attacks. Phishing accounts for 90% of all breaches that organizations face, they've grown 65% over the last year, and they account for over $12 billion in business losses.
What are the biggest cyber threats right now?Social engineering remains one of the most dangerous hacking techniques employed by cybercriminals, largely because it relies on human error rather than technical vulnerabilities. This makes these attacks all the more dangerous—it's a lot easier to trick a human than it is to breach a security system.
What are the biggest cyber security threats in 2022?Cybersecurity Threats and Trends for 2022. Phishing Gets More Sophisticated — Phishing attacks, in which carefully targeted digital messages are transmitted to fool people into clicking on a link that can then install malware or expose sensitive data, are becoming more sophisticated.
What are common cyber attacks today?The different types of cyber-attacks are malware attack, password attack, phishing attack, and SQL injection attack.
|