Cyber threats have become a big problem for an individual as well as in businesses nowadays. We are enjoying the development in Information Technology, and we have numerous benefits that have improved our way of life. However, there are some negative aspects as well along with the development.

I will share a few of the common types of cybersecurity threats and how they work.

Types of Cyber Security Threats

The following are the most common types of cybersecurity threats:

1.     Malware

Malware is a short form of Malicious Software, and the teams of hackers create it. They intend to make money by selling it on the dark web via bidding or spreading the malware themselves. There can be other motives and creating malware, such as a way to test security, a tool for protest, or as a weapon of war between authorities.

It has been a threat to individuals and organizations since the 1970s when the Creeper virus appeared initially. The world has been under the thousand of various malware since then. They all have the same intent is to create disruption and damage as much as possible.  

2.    Phishing

A hyperlink is sent to the recipient’s email, which contains malware. Such emails contain tricks that seek the recipient’s attention by the compulsive tone in the email body. Attackers gain entry if these links are clicked and downloaded.

Hackers usually use this type of threat to gain access to critical infrastructure to steal confidential information. Phishing can be stopped if every individual or organization stays confused while responding to the emails. It can be dealt with via using solid anti-spam software easily.

3.      Man in the Middle

This cyber threat is confusing as the attacker intercepts the electronic message between the sender and recipient and changes to the same in transit. Both parties believe as they are communicating with each other directly. This cyber threat is used to achieve the desired goal by misleading.

Man in the middle is one of the oldest forms of cyber-attack in computer history. IT professionals have been trying to find out ways to prevent this threat since early 1980.

4.      Distributed Denial of Service Attack (DDoS)

A distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack comprises multiple connected devices known as a botnet. The purpose of this attack to create fake traffic on the target website. On the other hand, other kinds of viruses attempt to breach privacy and steal information.

The DDoS main purpose is to make your website available to legitimate users. DDoS attacks harm the reputation and break the customer’s trust, which leads to loss of revenue.

5.      Malware on Mobile App

Mobile devices are also vulnerable to malware, just like other computer hardware. An attacker might embed malware in the mobile app, websites, or phishing emails and messages. Once tricked, your device can give the attacker access to personal information, financial account, location data, and more.

We all are moving to smartphones instead of desktop computers for our daily tasks. Hackers are more inclined to these devices instead. More of the critical works are being performed using smartphones that have changed the trend of threats.

Conclusion

What is cybersecurity? Here we have defined with the help of the cybersecurity threats in this article. Recent cyberattacks have forced individuals or companies to implement solid cybersecurity planning to counter these cyber threats. These cyber-attacks have been increasing day by day. Our devices are exposed to external threats and vulnerable to attacks. If we think about security and execute our planning, then there are fewer chances that our security will be compromised.