Common types of cyber threats include a variety of malicious activities that can compromise the security of systems, networks, and data. Here’s an overview of the most prevalent cyber threats:
1. Malware
- Definition: Malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise devices and networks.
- Types:
- Viruses: Attach themselves to legitimate files and spread when the infected file is shared.
- Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without user intervention.
- Trojans: Disguised as legitimate software but perform malicious actions once installed.
- Ransomware: Encrypts files or locks users out of their systems, demanding a ransom for access.
- Spyware: Secretly gathers user information without their knowledge.
2. Phishing
- Definition: Deceptive attempts to acquire sensitive information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity.
- Characteristics:
- Often delivered via email or text messages.
- May include fake websites designed to capture login credentials or personal information.
3. Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks
- Definition: Attacks that overwhelm a system, network, or service with traffic, rendering it unavailable to legitimate users.
- Characteristics:
- DoS: Initiated from a single source.
- DDoS: Uses multiple compromised devices (botnets) to flood the target with requests.
4. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks
- Definition: Intercepting and altering communications between two parties without their knowledge.
- Examples: Eavesdropping on unsecured Wi-Fi networks to capture sensitive information.
5. Zero-Day Exploits
- Definition: Attacks that target vulnerabilities in software or hardware that are unknown to the vendor and for which no patches are available.
- Characteristics: Exploits are often used until the vendor releases a fix, making them particularly dangerous.
6. Insider Threats
- Definition: Threats that originate from within an organization, typically involving employees or contractors who misuse access for malicious purposes.
- Examples: Data theft, sabotage, or unintentional exposure of sensitive information.
7. Credential Stuffing
- Definition: A type of attack where stolen usernames and passwords from one breach are used to gain unauthorized access to accounts on other platforms.
- Characteristics: Exploits the tendency of users to reuse passwords across multiple sites.
8. Social Engineering
- Definition: Manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security.
- Techniques: Pretexting, baiting, and tailgating are common methods used by attackers.
9. SQL Injection
- Definition: A code injection technique that exploits vulnerabilities in applications that use SQL databases.
- Impact: Attackers can manipulate database queries to access, modify, or delete data.
10. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
- Definition: A vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.
- Impact: Can lead to session hijacking, data theft, or spreading malware.
11. Rootkits
- Definition: A collection of tools that allow unauthorized users to gain control of a computer without being detected.
- Characteristics: Often used to maintain persistent access to a compromised system.
Conclusion
Understanding these common types of cyber threats is crucial for individuals and organizations to develop effective security strategies. By recognizing potential risks and implementing preventive measures, it’s possible to mitigate the impact of these threats and protect sensitive information and systems.