Types of Attacks in Cyber Security

Various types of attacks are present in the cyber security industry. They include DDoS, watering hole, XSS, and insider threats. These attacks can be used to target mission-critical business tools and systems.

DDoS attacks target mission-critical business tools

Using a network of hundreds, thousands, or even millions of internet-connected computers, a DDoS attack overwhelms the targeted system with fake internet traffic. It also disrupts the system’s operation.

DDoS attacks are becoming more sophisticated and more frequent. The emergence of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, including sensors and appliances, increases the number of network entryways. These devices often are not designed with security in mind. They are often used for launching attacks against critical business tools.

DDoS attacks can overwhelm the CPU and RAM of the target system, causing it to crash or shut down. They also deplete the available bandwidth and cause availability issues. In addition, they can disrupt business operations. This can be a serious financial risk for any business.

Brute force attacks involve auto-generating passwords until one works

Among the oldest hacking techniques, brute force attacks are simple and effective. They are used to break into networks and steal user credentials. They are also used to break into wireless modems. They can be used to infect websites with spyware.

A brute force attack is a form of guessing where the attacker uses a computer program to try an infinite number of password combinations. The program checks tens of millions of passwords per second.

One type of brute force attack is the rainbow table attack. It requires a rainbow table, which is a list of password hashes stored in an encrypted form.

Another brute force attack is a dictionary attack. This uses common passwords to try many variations on the password.

XSS attacks involve monitoring the data flow over a network

XSS (cross site scripting) is a common security vulnerability that allows an attacker to access and modify data on a web page. The resulting script may be malicious and may have serious repercussions. For example, a shady actor may be able to transfer a large sum of money without the user’s knowledge.

XSS can also be used to gain unauthorized access to an application’s database. A malicious script may be stored in the application’s database for future use. This is often referred to as persistent XSS.

XSS is a comparatively easy way for attackers to gain access to a system’s data. This can lead to identity theft and other consequences.

Watering hole attacks involve monitoring the data flow over a network

Unlike traditional malware attacks, watering hole attacks do not target the organization directly. Instead, the attacker uses the Internet and social media to reach the target audience.

Watering hole attacks are often used for financial gain. In fact, they have breached the defenses of some of the world’s largest companies. Despite this, it’s still difficult to detect and prevent them. However, there are steps organizations can take to protect themselves.

First, organizations must implement a secure web gateway architecture. This will prevent the entry of malicious files into their network. Secondly, organizations should set up advanced threat detection tools to detect and block watering hole attacks before they become too serious.

Advanced persistent threats (APT)

Often, the term “Advanced Persistent Threat” is used as an umbrella term for different types of cyber threats. They are malicious cyber-attacks carried out by skilled attackers that usually have a specific goal in mind. These cyber attacks are often government-sponsored or sponsored by organized crime groups.

Advanced Persistent Threats are usually long-term campaigns that target strategic targets. These targets may be governmental or military entities. The goal may be to gather intelligence, steal data, disrupt or sabotage critical infrastructure, or gain competitive advantage. They may also be launched to deploy additional malware.

Advanced Persistent Threats can be highly disruptive. In fact, they are known to cause devastating losses to target networks. These attacks are also difficult to detect. They use sophisticated methods to obtain unauthorized access to networks.

Insider threats

Despite being one of the most difficult attack models to detect, insider threats can have serious consequences. These could include unauthorized access to company systems and damaging of sensitive data. Consequently, organizations spend a considerable amount of money to ensure the safety of their digital assets.

Insiders may include volunteers, contractors, full-time employees, or temporary workers. Their actions can range from a trivial exploiting of a system vulnerability to a malicious act, such as sharing classified data with an unauthorized person.

One of the best defenses against insider threats involves ensuring that insiders are not recruited. The most common reason for recruiting insiders is personal weakness or financial problems.

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