A cyberattack is any attack on IT systems, networks or data with the aim of damaging, spying on or misusing them.
It can target single devices, websites or entire organisations.
Types of Cyberattacks
Attackers exploit technical weaknesses as well as human error.
Malware
Malicious programs such as trojans, worms and ransomware settle on devices.
They steal data, open back doors or encrypt files for ransom.
Phishing
Phishing uses fake messages and pages to get people to enter passwords or payment details.
Targeted variants aim at individual people in companies.
Preventing Cyberattacks
Several layers of protection together make attacks much harder.
Firewalls
A firewall controls traffic between networks and only allows permitted connections.
Web application firewalls also protect websites from attacks such as SQL injection;
bot protection such as CDPCaptcha secures forms and logins.
Antivirus Software
Antivirus programs detect known malware and suspicious behaviour on devices.
They only work reliably if they and the operating system are up to date.
Impact of Cyberattacks
A successful attack has technical, financial and legal consequences.
Financial Impact
Downtime, recovery, ransom, penalties and damages cause high costs.
Insurance often covers only part of them.
Reputation Impact
Publicly known attacks damage the trust of customers and partners.
Informing openly and acting quickly limits the damage.
Conclusion
Cyberattacks hit organisations of every size.
Firewalls, current antivirus, updates and attentive people together form an effective defence.