Cyber threats are the dangers posed to businesses and individuals from malicious activities carried out over the internet. They can range from threats to the integrity of data and systems to attacks on essential infrastructure that result in loss of service or financial losses. Cyberattacks are growing in scale and complexity, so the solutions to stop them must evolve too. This includes a new generation of security tools that use machine learning, artificial intelligence and behavioral detection to anticipate and stop threats in seconds.
Threat categories include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and zero-day exploits. Viruses can infiltrate and damage a computer system by attaching to software and hiding in applications, games or emails. Spyware gathers information like usernames, passwords and credit card numbers without a victim knowing and transmits it to the attacker. Worms self-replicate and can infect a device or network by exploiting software vulnerabilities or backdoors. Trojan horse malware disguises itself as a legitimate program and hides in apps or games, making it easier for cybercriminals to gain access to computers.
Criminals and terrorists hack into computing systems for profit, national security, revenge or to harm citizens. They may steal or destroy critical infrastructure, disrupt economies and cause bodily injury to citizens. Criminals also launch phishing campaigns to steal personal information and money through scams and online fraud.
Insider threats involve individuals who have authorized access to a company’s assets, such as employees or contractors. Their motivations are based on ego, financial gain, revenge or ideology and can be either deliberate or accidental. They can access sensitive information or compromise systems due to a lack of security awareness and strong authentication mechanisms.
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