Cyber Security Threats and Their Types

Cyber Security Threats and Their Types

Introduction:

In the present time, the internet has become so deeply integrated into our lives that being aware of cyber security is crucial. Every day, thousands or even millions of users fall victim to hackers. Therefore, it's important to understand the various cyber security threats and how to protect oneself from them. This post will discuss exactly that. 

Cyber Security Threats and Their Types:

What is Spoofing?

Spoofing is a method where an attacker gains unauthorized access to your computer or server. The attacker sends a message within a computer network, making it appear as if it was sent by someone known. In this process, the attacker changes the IP address. Spoofing is mostly used for DDOS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks. In the internet world, a DDOS attack is aimed at bringing down or disabling a website or server.

When an attacker hacks a website, they operate or shut down the site at their discretion. If a user tries to access the site during this time, it shows as unavailable. This type of attack is typically carried out by a team rather than a single hacker. In a DDOS attack, attackers send numerous spoofed IP addresses to the server or computer, overwhelming it with traffic that it cannot handle. In spoofing, the attacker may send you an email that looks legitimate, containing a link. When you click on the link, a virus enters your computer or server.

What is Hacking?

Today, the demand for computers and smartphones has increased so much that people cannot function without them, whether they work in a company or run a business. Cybercrime involves hackers stealing important information and personal files from others' computers or smartphones and then blackmailing them for money, or they may even leak personal information online. A person who performs hacking is known as a hacker and is highly knowledgeable about computers.

In hacking, a hacker looks for an entry point in the computer where they can gain access. Hackers can be categorized into two types: those who hack for good purposes without causing harm, known as White Hat Hackers, and those who hack to trouble others or steal important files from their systems, known as Black Hat Hackers.

What is Cracking?

Cracking is a technique used to break or completely dismantle computer software or systems, similar to hacking. Cracking is a serious crime. Crackers break into computer programs and accounts much like a thief breaks into a locked bank. There are only three types of cracking: password cracking, software cracking and network cracking. Cracking is often done to software that is bought from stores or online. Hackers break the codes of these software programs and activate them illegally without payment, often referred to as pirated software.

What is Phishing?

Phishing, as the name only tells, is akin to fishing in a pond. Just as fish are caught using bait, phishing involves sending an email or message to lure a user into providing personal information. Phishing is a cybercrime where hackers aim to obtain sensitive information such as banking details, credit/debit card details, passwords, etc.

Phishing attacks often appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks or recognized organizations, but they are actually fake. Phishing is a type of social engineering attack which is used to steal user’s data. Phishers use social media sites and emails to gather personal details like names, work history, hobbies, etc. Phishing can be classified into five types:

Spear Phishing:

• Whaling Attack
• Pharming Attacks
• Voice Phishing
• SMS Phishing

What is Spam?

With the increasing use of computers and mobile devices, spam has become common. If you use these devices or have an email account, you have probably encountered spam. Spam refers to unwanted emails sent to users without their consent. Although emails are typically used for sharing important information, some attackers use them to harass others. Those unwanted emails are called spam.

Spam is now so prevalent that email providers have implemented anti-spam programs to prevent such emails from reaching users' inboxes, or they redirect them to a separate folder named "Spam". The person sending spam is called a spammer. Spam mails often lead to various frauds as spammers send misleading emails to steal personal information. To reduce spam, it's advised to change passwords frequently or use strong passwords that are difficult to hack. Spammers continuously adopt new techniques to enter emails.

What is Adware?

Adware is a software package that can automatically display advertisements on your screen. It is usually free software that can redirect you to different websites while you are working. To run adware, an internet connection is necessary. Before installing adware on your computer, ensure it is from a reputable company because some adware can act as spyware, sending your computer information to other computers over the internet.

Adware can slow down your computer. If your computer is running slowly, it might have adware installed. Adware is created to make money or steal personal details from your computer to sell to third parties. There are software programs available, like Avast and AVG, which can detect or block adware. Most adware is safe, but some can be dangerous and may steal your information once installed on your computer.

What is a Rootkit?

Rootkits are typically used for malicious purposes. They embed themselves in places on a computer where regular software is not present, often without the user’s knowledge. Sometimes, rootkits mimic other software to hide. When you install software, a rootkit may install alongside it without your knowledge. Once installed, the attacker gains complete control over your computer, allowing them to extract personal information and blackmail you. Rootkits are hard to detect with regular antivirus software and require a rootkit scanner for detection.

If a rootkit is installed on your computer, you may need to reinstall your operating system, which results in the loss of all data. Rootkits can disable anti-malware protection and alter Windows settings automatically. They are designed to be difficult to detect and remove, requiring specialized software or a complete system reinstall to eradicate them.