The Most Common Types Of Cyberattacks

Written by: Jay H.

A cyberattack is an attack on the information system of an organization or individual. Usually, cybercriminals leverage these attacks to exploit sensitive information or otherwise disrupt operations.

Cyberattacks impact businesses every day. Indeed, cybercriminals attack every 39 seconds, underscoring how important good cybersecurity defence is for organizations. Here are the most common types of cyberattacks that impact your organization.

Most Common Types of Cyberattacks

1. Malware

Malware is an umbrella term for malicious software, including ransomware, spyware, adware, viruses, and worms. This software typically breaches a network through a vulnerability, for instance, if a user clicks a dangerous link that installs malware.

Malware typically comes in these forms and can do the following:

• Ransomware: Encrypt your files and computer systems and demand you pay a ransom for their release.
• Spyware/adware: Monitor your online activity and sell your data to third parties.
• Viruses: Impede your computer’s functions.
• Worms: Spread themselves to other systems on your network and delete or steal your files.

2. Phishing

Attackers use phishing to spread fraudulent communications that appear to come from a legitimate source, typically through email. The goal is to trick victims into giving sensitive information, such as credit card information or passwords, or to install malware on the victim’s device. This cyberattack is highly effective since human error is the main cause of 95 percent of cybersecurity breaches.

Learn how to spot a scam email (phishing) to protect yourself and your organization from these attacks.

3. Denial-of-Service Attack (DDoS)

A denial-of-service attack prevents others from accessing a web server, application, or service by flooding it with requests. For example, your website may become inaccessible due to a DDoS attack. Unfortunately, this attack does not require a network breach to execute, and even unsavvy malefactors can carry out this task.

4. Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MitM)

A man-in-the-middle attack involves attackers intercepting the communication between two parties. Also known as an eavesdropping attack, attackers filter and steal data once they interrupt the traffic.

This attack is common when using unsecured public Wi-Fi, so learn how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi.

5. SQL Injection

A Structured Query Language (SQL) injection occurs when malefactors insert malicious code using vulnerable user inputs within a web page or application. Then, these SQL commands execute within the database, letting hackers gain access to the data set. Using the stolen data, attackers can steal, modify, or delete information.

6. Zero-Day Exploit

When users uncover a security vulnerability in a program but before the software developers patch it, it is known as a zero-day exploit. Hackers target this exploit before developers have the opportunity to patch it. However, this is the most difficult cyberattack to defend against, as detecting zero-day exploits requires constant awareness.

Protect Against Cyber Threats

Cyber threats can devastate your organization. As discussed, human error causes the vast majority of data breaches, so education is the greatest weapon against cyberattacks.

Are you tired of cybercriminals targeting your business? We can help your organization defend itself against evolving cyber threats. With our managed IT services, we protect your network and all devices (endpoints) from sophisticated cyberattacks. Contact us today to learn more.