10 Major Types of Information Security Threats for IT Teams
Yes, the internet has changed everything. In the not-too-distant future, it is possible that everything will be online even the air and atmosphere!!
With the increasing use of technology and the internet, it is important for individuals to protect their online privacy. Measures has to taken preventing and protecting sensitive and valuable data from being leaked, distorted and destroyed.
What are Information Security Threats?
Cybersecurity threats are the malicious attacks by an individual or organization with harmful intent, whose goal is to steal data, cause damage to or disrupt computing systems. These types of threats are getting more prominent, clever, and intense nowadays with the advancement of technology.
It is essential to maintain control over their personal information and prevent it from being misused or shared without their consent. So the need for cybersecurity measures has been greater these days.
A breach in security can cause you a lot of loss in terms of finance and reputation. So be well-informed , aware and vigilant of possible security risks that may affect your organization.
Types of Information Security Threats
IT teams must remain extra cautious when it comes to protecting their data and networks. Let's explore the top 10 threats you should be aware of.
- Ransomware: A malware designed to deny a user or organization access to files on their computer either by locking the system's screen or by locking the users' files - unless the victim pays a ransom to the attacker.
- Denial of Service(DoS) Attacks: A cyberattack that makes a computer or other device unavailable to its intended users by flooding a website or network with traffic, causing it to become unavailable to legitimate users.
- Viruses: A computer program that can copy itself and infect a computer without permission or knowledge of the user. When the application runs, the malicious code executes.
- Trojan: A program downloaded and installed on a computer that appears harmless, but is, in fact, malicious. They hide in apps, games or email attachments. User downloads the trojan, allowing it to gain control of their device.
- Baiting: A strategy used in social engineering where a person is lured by a deceptive promise that appeals to their curiosity or greed like a free gift card. The victim provides sensitive information such as credentials to the attacker.
- Phishing: Phishing is when attackers attempt to trick users into doing 'the wrong thing', such as clicking a bad link that will download malware, or direct them to a dodgy website.
- Wi-Fi eavesdropping: It is a man-in-middle attack where an attacker sets up a Wi-Fi connection, posing as a legitimate actor, such as a business, that users may connect to. WiFi Eavesdropping can involve a hacker stealing data while on a public, unsecured wifi network.
- SQL injection: A code injection technique that might destroy your database. A cyberattack that injects malicious SQL code into an application, allowing the attacker to view or modify a database.
- Piggybacking: An authorized user provides physical access to another individual who “piggybacks” off the user’s credentials. When a person tags along with another person who is authorized to gain entry into a restricted area, or pass a certain checkpoint- it is called piggybacking. It can be either electronic or physical.
- Spyware: A type of malicious software that is installed on a computing device without the end user's knowledge. it is capable of gaining access to an unsuspecting user’s data, including sensitive information such as passwords and payment details.
Types of Information Security Threats: Conclusion
We are storing more sensitive information online, so it is natural that there are risks involved. As you can see from listed security threats, you data is more vulnerable than ever. Be aware and understand them to fight against any potential attacks that could cause exposure of sensitive information or even financial losses.
Stay up-to-date on the latest threats and trends in information security with us!!