Progress in complex technology can result in the ‘progress’ of complex threats.
Cyber threats have various forms and do not discriminate while looking for a target.
A cyber threat is a mischievous act that seeks to damage and steal data. It includes threats like computer viruses, denial of service, and data breaches.
Let’s explore this further:
What is Cyber Security?
Cyber security is the practice of protecting computers, mobile devices, servers, data, and networks against malicious attacks. It is often known as electronic information security or information technology security.
It is further divided into categories like network security, application security, information security, operational security, and many others based on the context like business or mobile computing, etc.
Significance of Cyber Security in Modern Era
Networks and digital devices have become a part of daily life, holding confidential information like passwords and even sensitive information like pictures etc. therefore, it is essential to set a strong gate to protect this information.
Cybercriminals can gain access to the data that can cause a range of problems. Still, the cyber security system protects this data by blocking the attack and notifying the owner about the intruder. Business companies, as well as individuals, need this security in order to stay in shape.
Cores of Cyber Threats and their Solutions
Over time, cyber threats have adopted many shapes to dodge the security system. Hackers and other mischievous parties use these methods to attack computer systems. Here are some of the most common cyber security threats and solutions to deal with them:
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Phishing
It is the process of trying to get private or confidential information by pretending to be an enquirer. An intruder may ‘fish’ for information by utilizing fake communication, for example, emails and SMS, in order to get credentials and personal information.
Phishing is a well-established practice that has grown in complexity over the years. However, these scams are hard to spot.
Attackers can corrupt email addresses and create bogus websites with the potential to capture sensitive data.
Solution
There are several ways you can identify and avoid phishing attacks:
- Ensure that your equipment is updated and equipped with the latest security software.
- Be suspicious of emails and calls that seem odd.
- If you are unsure whether a call or email is legitimate or not, contact the company for verification before responding.
- If you have fallen victim to this scam, contact the relevant authorities.
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MITM
MITM stands for a man-in-the-middle attack; it happens when an attacker establishes a position between the sender and the receiver, allowing them to exchange information or intercept any correspondence.
Moreover, the MIT attacker can even alter the knowledge of the message without getting noticed by the sender or receiver.
Solution
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Make sure that access points are secure. (Wi-Fi networks are straightforward targets of MITM attacks, so it is essential to set strong and secure passwords.)
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Utilize VPN for personal information and credentials. A VPN (a virtual private network) can create a secure environment that you can use when handling sensitive data.
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Ensure that the web browsers are updated.
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Ransomware
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It is one of the dangerous types of malware that essentially locks down a victim’s files. It encrypts them so they cannot be accessed.
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Usually, the attacker demands money or anything in return to decrypt the data and files. It is the biggest cyber security threat in the current era.
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However, a common starting point of the ransom attacker is a phishing attempt. He will dupe the victim into installing harmful software that will later lock down the system.
Solution
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Make sure to have up-to-date anti-virus software installed on your device.
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Limit the access so that only authorized software can run on them. It will avoid opening files from unknown sources.
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If you fall prey to the ransomware attack, inform the IT security system immediately and do not pay the ransom.
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DDoS
DDoS is known as denial of service or distributed denial of service attack. It happens when the attacker utilizes multiple devices and uses them to overload target systems.
The attacker usually attacks the website that can cope with a limited number of users at a time making it unusable for a while.
Solution
- One of the first techniques to prevent or mitigate attacks is to minimize the surface area that can be attacked. By limiting the options for attackers, you can build protection in a single space.
- Inform the IT Company because a lot of preventing and dealing with DDoS attacks is easily handled by professionals.
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Trojan
The Trojan is another form of harmful malware. It invades the personal computer or other devices by disguise. Usually, it looks like a regular file and attempts to trick you into running and installing.
Once it gets access to your computer, it will disable anti-virus and install more malware to corrupt the files or make it a part of a DDoS attack. It is one of the biggest cyber security threats nowadays.
Solution
- Avoid downloading software from an unknown source.
- Make sure that your operating system and anti-virus software are updated.
- Never run an unknown or suspicious application.
- If your PC got Trojan, it requires a robust anti-virus application to combat it. If it fails to combat, contact the IT department or a professional.
Cyber Defense of Individuals
PCs or devices with weak passwords or security systems are more vulnerable to malicious attacks.
However, for individuals, some simple practices are mentioned to avoid any harmful scenario. Password hygiene: Even well-known cyber security organizations cannot protect consumers against a stack that likes to have weak passwords. Password hygiene can go a long to protect consumers.
Anti-virus software: Anti-virus software acts as a barrier to filtering every file or device connecting to your device. It detects and prevents malicious attacks.
Caution against phishing: Be careful while opening the files and links from unknown sources.
In a Nutshell
Cyber security is a mandatory consideration in the digital era.
With the bunch of personal information available at the distance of one click, there are always cyber risks to be wary of. However, having thorough information about cyber security threats, you can keep your PC as well as information safe.