What is a cyber attack? Definition and its types (2024)

A cyber attack aims to disrupt a business. It can do so in many ways. The most common is by infiltrating a device to steal data. They can attack companies and individuals. Criminals can also slow computers down or freeze them altogether. Read on to learn more about this threat.

Types of cyber attacks

Most cyber attacks start as email threats. Someone in your organization opens a message that automatically downloads malware, short for “malicious software.” It can contaminate that computer and infect any device connected to it. Read about the most common cyber attack types.

1. Worms

A worm is a virus that quickly spreads across any device connected to your network. It typically damages these systems, slowing them down or preventing people from using them. It receives this name for its ability to go from one computer to another.

2. Spyware

It downloads itself on your computer, and you don’t even notice it. It records your activities, capturing any information you enter on your machine. It then sends this data to the hacker, who can use it to access your bank account or other sensitive accounts.

3. Ransomware

This malware type locks your computer. You can only use it again after you pay ransom to the hacker. Your best alternative in this situation is to reformat your machine. Even if you pay a ransom, there’s no guarantee that the hacker didn’t install another malware, like spyware.

4. Adware

This software displays ads in specific programs as you use your machine. It can collect your information to show you ads tailored to you. It can also show you malicious ads, installing malware when you click on them. A premium email will never display ads.

5. Trojans

It’s software that you download for a specific reason. It does what you want it to. You have no reasons to suspect it. But, it’s releasing viruses in your computer. This malware type is one of the most dangerous, as it’ll take some time before you notice something is wrong.

6. Password Attack

Not every cyber attack comes from clicking something you shouldn’t on an email. Password attacks are examples. Hackers can try to discover your password in many ways. One uses software that generates thousands of alternatives until finally getting it right.

An excellent way to avoid compromising your password is by checking tips on creating a strong password. As it’s always better to be safe than sorry, check if your password has leaked. Change it immediately if it has.

7. SQL Injection Attack

In an SQL injection attack, the hacker gets administrative privileges and access to your database. He can steal the information and delete it. He can also rearrange it to cause problems. In extreme cases, he may do all of the above.

8. Distributed Denial-of-Service Attack (DDoS)

It’s easy to think the digital world has no maximum occupancy. But the such assumption is incorrect. Your website has a max number of users it can host simultaneously. Some hackers can send thousands of fake users to your web pages to take them down.

9. Man-in-the-Middle Attack

A hacker can infiltrate your online messages. In doing so, he can eavesdrop on the conversation and collect any sensitive information it contains. He can also impersonate one of the participants. You’ll think you’re talking to a friend or a coworker, but you’re not.

The consequences of cyber attacks on businesses

You’ve learned all the most common ways a cyber attack may happen in your business. But now it’s time to get practical. Read about what consequences they’d bring to your company.

Financial losses

Criminals can get your bank credentials and personal information, meaning they can access your bank account, resulting in significant financial losses. If you’ve decided to create an online shop, you’ll also have your client’s bank data, which can also bring losses to them.

Loss of data

Hackers can infiltrate your systems and collect your clients’ private information. They can sell or use it for criminal activities, like taking out a loan unauthorized or committing other fraud types.

Legal problems

Many countries have data protection and privacy laws. As such, you’re responsible for safeguarding your clients and employees’ private information. If it leaks, you can face a lawsuit for negligence, which would damage your reputation as an employer and as a business.

Lower productivity

Some attacks can slow your systems down. Others can freeze them. Either way, the cyber attack will severely compromise your productivity as your team won’t work as effectively, and you’ll need to waste time fixing the issue.

How to prevent cyber attacks

Education is key. Cyber attacks seem like something you need to be lucky to avoid. But that’s not true. You can take many steps to prevent hackers from attacking your business. Read some examples below.

Build a secure website

Choose a domain host and use a website builder to ensure your website meets all criteria of a secure webpage. one.com can help you. We offer hosting with HTTPS and SSL certificates that will help you protect your business.

Keep your systems up to date

Technology is constantly evolving to prevent cyber attacks. So, you must continuously update your systems to ensure they can detect the latest threats. one.com has a powerful virus and spam filter that protects you from the latest threats.

Be suspicious of your email

Always check the sender before opening a message. If you don’t recognize the sender, don’t click any links or download attachments. They may install malware on your device.

Browse secure websites

Most websites use an HTTPS protocol. It makes it more difficult for hackers to steal your information while you browse these pages. To see if a webpage uses HTTPS, check if your browser displays a padlock to the left of the website’s URL.

Train your staff

Ensure your employees know how to prevent cyber attacks. All it takes is making them understand some best practices, like not downloading attachments from emails with unknown senders. It’s simple but will pay dividends down the line.