Top 9 Most Common CyberAttacks You Should Be Aware

The cybercriminals of today are experts who want to steal information but are not casual hobbyists. However, due to various reasons, many security teams are unable to maintain the security of their IT systems. Even significant businesses find it difficult to stop cyberattacks from making use of their networks for financial gain. However, these networks must maintain open access and connectivity to protect organizational resources.

Every year, cybercrime is rising as attackers become more proficient and smart. Cyber or internet attacks can occur for an array of reasons and in a variety of methods. In this blog, we will discuss various types of cyberattacks and how to avoid them.

What are Cyberattacks?

A cyberattack occurs when an attacker tries to enter an IT system without authorization. They aim to steal, demand money, cause trouble, or for other nefarious purposes. However, they are also responsible for a significant portion of security issues. It can be their carelessness or maliciousness. However, a cyber-attack is done by someone who is a part of your firm.

One who commits a cyberattack via several cyber attack methods is referred to as a hacker or attacker. These attacks have several harmful consequences. If the attack is successful, there could be data breaches that result in data loss or misuse of data.

Different Types of Cyber Attack

Let’s start with the various categories of cyberattacks on our list.

1. Phishing Attack

One of the most common and extensive types of cyberattacks is phishing. It is a form of social engineering assault where an attacker poses as a reliable contact and sends phony emails.

Unaware of this, the victim opens the email or the attachment or clicks on the malicious link. Thus, the attackers can access private data and login passwords. A phishing attack also allows for the installation of malware.

2. Malware Attack

It is the most common type of cyber attack and has various objectives, including data theft, financial gain, system disruption, etc. The term “malware” describes malicious software viruses such as worms, spyware, ransomware, adware, and trojans.

Malware enters a network by exploiting a weakness. So, it attacks when a user visits a risky link or downloads an email attachment. It may also enter when the user uses an infected pen drive.

3. SQL Injection Attack

In a Structured Query Language injection attack, a hacker changes a usual SQL query on a database-driven website. It spreads by injecting malicious code into a search field on a vulnerable website. Hence, such cyberattacks force the server to disclose vital information. The attacker now has access to read, modify, and delete databases’ tables. Additionally, attackers may also obtain administrative rights.

4. Insider Threat

This threat involves an insider rather than a third party. Therefore, it can be someone who works for the company and is an expert in its operations. Moreover, the potential damage from insider threats is enormous. Small organizations are more vulnerable to insider threats because their employees have access to sensitive data.

There are several causes for this kind of attack, including avarice, malice, and negligence. Insider threats are also tricky because they are difficult to predict.

5. Spoofing

Spoofing is an approach that allows cybercriminals to pose as reliable or well-known sources. Thus, the attacker can interact with the target and get access to their systems or devices. This is the most common cyber attack with the end goal of stealing data, demanding money, or infecting the device.

6. DDoS (distributed denial-of-service)

DDoS occurs when several hacked computers join together to attack a single target and disrupt service. It can be a server, website, or other network resources. Thus, the target system slows down or possibly crashes and shuts down. This happens due to the deluge of incoming messages, connection requests, or malformed packets. As a result, there is a denying of service to genuine users or systems.

7. Cross-site scripting

In such cyber attack categories, a hacker inserts data like a harmful script into content from reliable websites. Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks can happen when a malicious source inserts its code into a web application. That malicious code comes together with dynamic content to a victim’s browser. It enables an attacker to run malicious programs created in various languages, including HTML, JavaScript, Ajax, Flash, and Java.

8. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks are a type of malicious cyberattack where the attacker encrypts the victim’s files or entire computer system and demands a ransom (usually in cryptocurrency) in exchange for the decryption key. The objective of a ransomware attack is financial gain, and it can have devastating consequences for individuals, businesses, and even government organizations.

9. Man-in-the-Middle Attack

The man-in-the-middle attack (MITM) is also known as an eavesdropping attack. In this attack, the attacker hijacks the session between a client and host by interrupting with a two-party communication. Hackers steal and alter data in this way. Therefore, the attackers can read, copy, or modify data or information in real time before sending them to the unaware receiver.

These are just some cyber attack examples that individuals, organizations, and governments face in the digital age. Let’s discuss how can we prevent these attacks and safeguard our data.

How to Prevent Cyber Attacks?

Preventing cyberattacks requires a multi-faceted approach that combines technical measures, good cyber security practices, and ongoing vigilance. Here are some essential steps and strategies to help prevent cyberattacks:

• Use strong, numeric passwords and change your passwords often. Don’t create passwords that are complex or that you may forget.
• Secure your Wi-Fi networks, and stay away from insecure public WiFi.
• Regularly update both your operating system and your software to stop any cyberattack. Additionally, use reliable and legal antivirus software.
• Use a firewall along with additional network security technologies like Intrusion detection and prevention systems.
• Delete emails from senders you are not trustworthy. Check each email you receive for flaws and serious problems.
• Implementing a VPN will ensure that the traffic between the VPN server and your device is encrypted.

Also Read: How to Become a Cybersecurity Analyst

Conclusion

This blog was all about a cyber attack, its top nine types, and the ways to prevent it. Changing, erasing, or stealing data, and exploiting or harming a network are all examples of cyberattacks. They target computers or any component of a computerized information system. Therefore, we implement cybersecurity to stop these attacks. It is the process of preventing unwanted digital access to networks, computer systems, and their parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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