Types Of Threats | Basics | Cybersecurity Tutorial

1. Malware

Malware, short for malicious software, is a type of software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system. Common types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

Example: A user unwittingly downloads a file from an untrusted source, which installs a trojan on their computer. The trojan then allows an attacker to remotely access the system and steal sensitive data.

2. Phishing

Phishing attacks involve tricking individuals into providing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details, by pretending to be a trustworthy entity. These attacks are often carried out via email or malicious websites.

Example: An attacker sends an email that appears to be from a legitimate bank, asking the recipient to click on a link and confirm their account details. The link leads to a fake website that captures the user's information.

3. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks

In a MitM attack, the attacker intercepts and potentially alters the communication between two parties without their knowledge. This can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of the data being exchanged.

Example: An attacker sets up a Wi-Fi hotspot in a public place. When users connect to it, the attacker intercepts their internet traffic, capturing login credentials and other sensitive information.

4. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks

DoS attacks aim to make a computer system or network resource unavailable to its intended users by overwhelming it with a flood of unnecessary requests. A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack is a more powerful variant involving multiple compromised systems.

Example: A website is bombarded with traffic from multiple sources, causing it to crash and become inaccessible to legitimate users.

5. SQL Injection

SQL injection is a code injection technique that exploits vulnerabilities in an application's software by inserting malicious SQL code into a query. This can allow attackers to access, modify, or delete database data.

Example: An attacker enters a malicious SQL query into a website's login form, bypassing authentication and gaining unauthorized access to user accounts.

6. Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits take advantage of software vulnerabilities that are unknown to the software vendor. Since there are no patches available, these exploits can be particularly damaging.

Example: A hacker discovers a vulnerability in a popular web browser and creates an exploit to take control of users' computers before the vendor can release a patch.

7. Insider Threats

Insider threats involve malicious actions taken by individuals within an organization, such as employees or contractors, who have access to sensitive information. These threats can be difficult to detect and prevent.

Example: A disgruntled employee with access to confidential company data decides to leak it to a competitor or sell it on the dark web.

Types of Threats in Cybersecurity