Cybercrime involves single actors or groups targeting systems for financial gain or business disruption.
A cyber attack often involves politically motivated information gathering.
Cyberterrorism is designed to undermine electronic systems in a way that causes panic or fear.
So how do malicious actors gain control of computer systems? Some common methods used to threaten cybersecurity include:
Malware is also referred to as "Malware". One of the most common cyber threats, malware is software created by a cybercriminal or hacker to disrupt or damage a legitimate user's computer. Often spread via an unsolicited email attachment or legitimate-looking download, malware can be used by cybercriminals to make money or in politically motivated cyberattacks.
Virus: A program that self-replicates, attaches itself to a clean file and spreads throughout the computer system. It infects files using malicious code.
Trojans: A type of malware disguised as legitimate software. Cybercriminals trick users into installing Trojans on their computers, thereby damaging their computers or harvesting data.
Spyware: A program that secretly records what a user is doing so cybercriminals can use this information. For example, spyware can capture credit card information.
Ransomware: Malware that threatens to delete and locks a user's files and data unless a ransom is paid.
Adware: Advertising software that can be used to spread malware.
Botnets: Malware-spreading computer networks that cybercriminals use to perform online tasks without user consent.
SQL (structured language query) infiltration is a type of cyber attack used to control and steal data from a database. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in data-oriented applications to inject malicious code into a database via a malicious SQL statement. This gives them access to sensitive information contained in the database.
Phishing is when cybercriminals target victims using emails that appear to be from a legitimate company and request sensitive information. Phishing attacks are often used to trick people into transferring credit card data and other personal information.
A transaction interception attack is a type of cyber threat in which cybercriminals intercept communications between two individuals to steal data. For example, on an unsecured WiFi network, an attacker can intercept data passing from the victim's device and across the network.
A denial of service attack is when cybercriminals prevent a computer system from fulfilling legitimate requests by overwhelming networks and servers with traffic. This makes the system unusable, preventing an organization from performing vital functions.
Latest cyber threats
What are the most current cyber threats that individuals and organizations need to protect against? Here are some of the most recent cyber threats reported by the UK, US and Australian governments.
Dridex malware
In December 2019, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) charged the leader of an organized cybercrime group for their involvement in a global Dridex malware attack. This malicious campaign affected the public, government, infrastructure, and business worldwide.
Dridex is a financial trojan with various capabilities. It has been infecting victims since 2014, infecting computers via phishing emails or existing malware. Dridex, which can steal passwords, banking information and personal data that can be used in fraudulent transactions, has caused major financial losses reaching hundreds of millions.
In response to the Dridex attacks, the UK's National Cyber Security Center advises the public to ensure "devices are patched, anti-virus is on, up to date and files are backed up."
love scammers
In February 2020, the FBI warned US citizens to be aware of trust fraud by cybercriminals using dating sites, chat rooms and apps. Criminals take advantage of people looking for new partners and trick victims into giving up their personal data.
FBI reports report that romance cyberthreats affected 114 victims in New Mexico in 2019, with financial losses totaling $1.6 million.
Emotet malware
In late 2019, the Australian Cyber Security Center warned national agencies about a widespread global cyber threat from the Emotet malware.
Emotet is an advanced trojan that can steal data and install other malware as well. Emotet thrives on uncomplicated passwords: an example to remind you of the importance of creating a secure password to protect against cyber threats.
End user protection
End user protection or endpoint security is an important element of cybersecurity. Ultimately, it is an individual (end user) who accidentally installs malware or another form of cyber threat onto their desktop computer, laptop, or mobile device.
So how do cybersecurity measures protect end users and systems? First of all, cyber security; It relies on cryptographic protocols to encrypt emails, files and other important data. This not only protects transferred information but also protects against loss or theft.
Additionally, end-user security software scans for malicious pieces of code on computers, quarantines that code, and then removes it from the machine. Security programs can even detect and remove malicious code hidden in the Master Boot Record (MBR) and are designed to encrypt or erase data on the computer's hard drive.
Electronic security protocols also focus on real-time malware detection. Many of these help defend against viruses or Trojans that change their shape with each run (polymorphic and metamorphic malware) by using heuristics and behavioral analysis to monitor a program's behavior and code. Security programs can confine potential malicious programs to a separate virtual bubble from the user's network to analyze their behavior and learn how to better detect new infections.
Security programs continue to develop new defenses as cybersecurity experts identify new threats and new ways to combat them. To get the most out of end-user security software, employees need to be trained on how to use the software. Most importantly, keeping this security software running and updating it frequently ensures that it can protect users against the latest cyber threats.
End user protection
End user protection or endpoint security is an important element of cybersecurity. Ultimately, it is an individual (end user) who accidentally installs malware or another form of cyber threat onto their desktop computer, laptop, or mobile device.
So how do cybersecurity measures protect end users and systems? First of all, cyber security; It relies on cryptographic protocols to encrypt emails, files and other important data. This not only protects transferred information but also protects against loss or theft.
Additionally, end-user security software scans for malicious pieces of code on computers, quarantines that code, and then removes it from the machine. Security programs can even detect and remove malicious code hidden in the Master Boot Record (MBR) and are designed to encrypt or erase data on the computer's hard drive.
Electronic security protocols also focus on real-time malware detection. Many of these help defend against viruses or Trojans that change their shape with each run (polymorphic and metamorphic malware) by using heuristics and behavioral analysis to monitor a program's behavior and code. Security programs can confine potential malicious programs to a separate virtual bubble from the user's network to analyze their behavior and learn how to better detect new infections.
Security programs continue to develop new defenses as cybersecurity experts identify new threats and new ways to combat them. To get the most out of end-user security software, employees need to be trained on how to use the software. Most importantly, keeping this security software running and updating it frequently ensures that it can protect users against the latest cyber threats.
Cyber security tips: Protect yourself against cyber attacks
How can businesses and individuals be protected against cyber threats? Here are our best cybersecurity tips:
Update your software and operating system: This means you're taking advantage of the latest security patches.
Use antivirus software: Security solutions such as Kaspersky Total Security detect and remove threats. Keep your software updated to ensure the best level of protection.
Use strong passwords: Make sure your passwords are not easily guessable.
Do not open email attachments from unknown senders: These attachments may be infected with malware.
Don't click links in emails from unknown senders or on unrecognized websites: This is a common method for malware to spread.
Avoid using unsecured WiFi networks in public places: Unsecured networks leave you vulnerable to attacks aimed at interfering with operations.
Related Articles:
What is Cyber Crime: Risks and Prevention
How to Avoid Most Types of Cyber Crime
Internet of Things Security Threats
What is Spam and Phishing Scams?
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