BY JULIA LLOYD
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CYBER ATTACKS?
MALWARE
A general term for any software with intent to damage a computer and/or computer system. This can include, viruses, spyware, trojan horses and other malicious forms of cyber attacks. This is commonly contracted through email links from unknown sources—sometimes even pop-up ads have malware.
PHISHING
Professional hackers will install malware into an email that resembles a sender the user knows—increasing the likelihood of the user clicking the link. This is another type of malware, called phishing.
RANSOMWARE
One of the more advanced forms of cyberattacks, hackers can encrypt data in the computer, with the use of a infected banner ad, email attachment, or an infected website. Personal information is taken, data is destroyed, and money is demanded in order to get control of the computer back.
SOCIAL ENGINEERING
“This type of hack does not occur quickly, the hack takes advantage of the user overtime by psychologically manipulating them. The hacker can make the user release personal information that allows the hacker to access the computer. This is especially dangerous in a workplace setting.”
CREDENTIAL REUSE
“There are reasons for websites to request unique passwords. Most people are tempted to use the same password and hackers love it. If one website is hacked and they get a list of usernames and passwords, they can use those passwords to long into other websites with personal information stored.”
TYPES OF MALWARE
TOP FOUR INDUSTRIES VULNERABLE TO CYBERATTACKS
HEALTHCARE
IT AND TELECOMS
FINANCE
CONSTRUCTION
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER AND PHONE
