Cyber threats are a growing problem as our lives become more interconnected and digital. From smart cars to home security systems, a cyberattack can compromise the confidentiality of our data, damage company reputations and stifle innovation. By 2021, the global economy is expected to suffer $6 trillion in losses from cybercrime.
Cyberattacks range from hacktivism to state-sponsored attacks. Hackers exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, stealing confidential information and disrupting business operations. These attacks have significant financial ramifications for companies, including lost revenue, regulatory fines and legal fees. They can also lead to identity theft and diminished customer trust that can have long-term consequences for organizations.
The most common cybersecurity threat is malware, a program that exploits or damages computer systems. This includes viruses, spyware, ransomware, Trojans, and more. Businesses and consumers are often victims of these programs, with hackers using phishing, spear phishing, swatting, malware and bots to steal confidential information, cause financial loss and disruption and extort money.
Other cyber attack techniques include code injection, where attackers inject malicious code into vulnerable web servers. Another form of attack is called a denial-of-service (DoS) attack, where attackers flood websites with traffic or requests in order to prevent them from functioning properly.
In many cases, cyber attacks are motivated by greed or a desire to cause disruption. For example, disgruntled employees may launch a cyberattack for personal gain, such as stealing data and selling it or to hurt an employer they feel treated them unfairly. Attacks are sometimes launched for political reasons, with hacktivists launching cyber attacks to raise awareness about internet regulation and censorship.