Types of Cyber Security Attacks and their Prevention solutions
Types of Cyber Security Attacks and their Prevention solutions
When it comes to protecting yourself online, no amount of caution is too much. The rise of e-commerce has led to more remote working arrangements and a heavy dependence on technology which all contribute to keeping organizations under constant threat from cyber criminals. For instance, you may never be able to know when your bank could send out a phishing message asking you to click on a link for it seems legitimate. LikeBluechip Computer LLC, the cyber security companies in UAE help in safeguarding both institutions and people from these risks. In this article, we simply look at some of the common types of cyber security attacks.
Know theTypes of Cyber Security Attacks
1. Phishing Attacks
Phishing is one of the easiest cyber crimes that can be carried out. It mostly comes as emails or messages appearing to be from sources regarded as trustworthy such as banks or workmates. The perpetrator tricks someone into clicking a malignant link which usually requests sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers.
Example
One may get an email that pretends to come from his/her bank instructing them to confirm their bank account by following certain links. This will open the door for hackers into that person’s life.
Prevention
Scrutinize every email address sender always.
Avoid opening strange links and never give away personal details when you get unexpected messages.
2. Malware Attacks
Malware, short for malicious software, inherently damages or disrupts systems incorporating viruses, worm programs, and trojan horses. Malware can corrupt files, steal sensitive information, or even allow attackers to take control of your computer remotely.
Example
You download new software that seems harmless but has a hidden virus inside that starts corrupting your files and stealing the data you have in your machine.
Prevention
Install and update antivirus software regularly.
Be cautious when downloading files from unknown sources.
3. Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware is one form of malware that locks user’s data/devices while asking for a ransom to unlock it. This could completely hinder the operations of an organization or someone else for that matter holding onto sensitive information as hostages.
Example
Employee unknowingly downloads a file onto the company network infecting the entire company with ransomware and locking away all data until they pay some form of cryptocurrency
Prevention
Create backups on a regular basis.
Avoid opening suspicious emails or downloading unknown files.
4. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks
DoS attacks are a type of cyber attack that overloads the resources of a system leading to legitimate requests being ignored. Following this, some websites or services would be rendered inaccessible, which in turn may hinder business activities.
Example
An attacker sends tons of fake traffic to a website owned by a firm causing it to crash and thus inaccessible to the rightful users.
Prevention
Incorporate strong firewalls.
Employ those companies that offer DoS prevention services.
5. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks
A man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack takes place when a hacker interrupts communication between two people; for example between a user and a website. The hacker can listen in, steal data, or alter communication without users’ awareness.
Example
You connect your laptop to public Wi-Fi allowing an intruder to listen to your Internet bank session without your permission; thereby making him access account information.
Prevention
Make use of secured sites (HTTPS).
Do not use unprotected public networks to do your financial transactions unless you have a VPN.
6. Password Attacks
Password attacks are one of the easiest methods for cybercriminals to get into an account. They can take different forms such as brute force attacks (trying several password combinations), or using stolen credentials that were obtained from data leaks.
Example
With software, hackers will try different combinations of your password till they end up finding the right one hence acquiring your email, bank, or social media accounts.
Prevention
Every account must have a strong and unique password.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when possible.
7. Password Injection Attacks
SQL injection attacks target websites or databases that use SQL (Structured Query Language) through inserting malicious SQL codes to Form fields on websites with the aim of accessing databases without authorization stealing or tampering with information in them.
Example
A vulnerability in the search bar of an online shopping website makes it easy for hackers to input malicious SQL code that gives them access to the whole customer database.
Prevention
Constantly updating and patching web applications.
Validation and sanitation of all user inputs.
8. Zero-Day Exploits
A zero-day exploit happens when hackers discover a flaw in software or hardware that has not been patched by the developer. Hackers capitalize on this gap and use it to gain access to systems since there is no available fix for it.
Example
Hackers find vulnerabilities in common software and exploit them before the company may have released an update for its security protocol.
Prevention
Ensure proper updates of all systems and software.
In UAE, consult with cyber security firms such as Bluechip Computer LLC to monitor and defend against these vulnerabilities.
9. Insider Threats
Insider threats happen when one within the organization causes a breach intentionally or unintentionally which could lead to loss of data through malicious actions or simply negligence. The following are some examples of malicious insider threats (misuse) and inadvertent (negligence).
Example
Angry employees transmit confidential information about their company to hackers or rival organizations; alternatively, an employer susceptible to cyber attacks inadvertently downloads malware that leads to invasion.
Prevention
Implement robust access control procedures.
Consistently educate workers on good cyber hygiene practices.
10. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are defined as unauthorized entries into a network by an intruder who remains undetected for an extended period of time. It is usually sophisticated and aimed at collecting secret information over time.
Example
A hacker infiltrates a government agency’s network and within several months goes unnoticed while stealing classified data.
Prevention
There are some advanced monitoring tools which may help in monitoring the unusual activity.
Use multi-layered security measures.
11. Social Engineering Attacks
Social engineering entails the manipulation of individuals so that they may divulge private information or do something that compromises security. Instead of relying on technical means of hacking into systems, this type of attack relies upon human interaction.
Example
A hacker impersonates your coworker and asks you to provide your login credentials via telephone as he exploits your trust.
Always authenticate identities before sharing any sensitive info with anyone.
Train employees to identify tactics used in social engineering situations.
Why Work with Cyber Security Companies in UAE?
Because cyber threats are always changing, it is important for businesses and individuals in the UAE to be at the forefront of their cybersecurity pursuits. That’s when they start engaging with UAE-based organizations like Bluechip Computer LLC who deal in cyber security. They provide various kinds of services that help prevent these attacks including –
Data Protection – Additively, encryption of sensitive data and backing it up on a regular basis.
Threat Monitoring – This involves constant observation of unusual activities as well as possible threats.
Incident Response – This serves to aid companies in responding to cyber attacks promptly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Meantime let us understand that cyber security attacks can take many shapes. The initial move to safeguarding both yourself and your enterprise involves comprehending their kinds. Following are ways through which you can guarantee that your information and systems stay protected by keeping yourself instructed and associating with professionals such as Bluechip Computer LLC. Reliable cyber security firms in the UAE aid businesses to develop stronger defenses and lower the chances of being subjected to cybercrimes.
