Cyber Threats

 

Penetrating a business or home system is typically done by the efficient exploitation of vulnerabilities. Criminals need only to find one way in while threat protectors must monitor all know entry points. Because of this, even large enterprises struggle to prevent cybercriminals from monetizing access to their networks, which typically must maintain open access and connectivity while security professionals try to protect enterprise resources.

Cybercriminals use any internet-connected device as a target and with the growing use of smart appliances, entry points are growing. Most internet connected devices like smart refrigerators, doorbells, smart speakers, etc. use less sophisticated cybersecurity measures, opening them up to attack.

 

The most common methods of cyber attack are:

1. Malware Attack. Malware is short for “malicious software” and refers to programs installed surreptitiously on a device, usually by fooling users and eluding security controls. The most feared malware today is known as “Ransomeware” which encrypts a victim’s files and demands payment to decrypt the files. Other forms of malware are: Rootkit, which uses software tools to open a back door to a victim’s device; Trojan Horse, typically hidden in an email attachment that looks perfectly safe; and, Spyware, which monitors internet activity and captures passwords and log-in credentials.
2. Ransomeware Attack.
3. Password Attack. Several methods are used including trying keywords and phrases from social media accounts or Keylogging where malware monitors all keystrokes and tries to pit together or flush out passwords from a user’s tendencies.
4. Denial of Service Attack. This occurs when a large number of hijacked devices attempt to access the same server simultaneously, causing it to crash.
5. Phishing attack. A criminal pretends to be from a legitimate organization and dupes the victim into providing log-in or security information, or directly provide bank and credit card numbers.
6. SQL Attack. A malicious request can modify, delete or embellish existing data files, or extract key information.
7. Man-in -the-middle Attack. A criminal intercepts messages from two users and modifies them before sending them along, all without the knowledge of either victim.
8. URL Attack. Attackers modify a URL on a website where a victim has an account, allowing for the capture of log-in credentials and sensitive information.
9. DNS Spoofing Attack. Victims are directed to a phony website posing as the legitimate one.
10. Botnet Attack. Often used to send spam, it is a collection of hijacked devices following orders from cybercriminals.
11. Insider Attack. Employees and contractors who lave legitimate access to systems either are duped into allowing criminal access or are part of the scam themselves.

 

Businesses and homes are under constant threat of attack and a cybersecurity strategy is essential to keep one’s valuable information safe. The ability to constantly adapt to new threats is critical in the development of a successful strategy.

 

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a mainstay in cybersecurity. From handling and processing large volumes of data to detecting even minute anomalies and predicting further threats, AI is taking the fight against cybercrime to new levels of effectiveness. It's likely that in 2025, AI will become integral in all aspects of cybersecurity, from threat detection and incident response to strategy formulation.

AI systems are particularly good at parsing complex datasets to uncover patterns and recognize vulnerabilities that might otherwise go unnoticed. They also excel in performing routine checks, freeing human security teams to focus on more difficult and creative security tasks—and removing the risk of human error or oversight in routine, manual work.

CyberHalt offers cybersecurity services that are comprehensive, use AI to enhance security and will stay cutting edge in its mission to protect the valuable data of both its business and residential customers.

 

Cybersecurity Consulting Services offered by CyberHalt include:

 

• Vulnerability Assessments: Identifying and prioritizing security weaknesses.
• Penetration Testing: Simulating attacks to uncover vulnerabilities.
• Incident Response: Developing and implementing incident response plans.
• Security Audits and Compliance: Ensuring adherence to security standards and regulations.
• Cybersecurity Training for Organizations:
  • Customized Training Programs: Tailored training to meet specific organizational needs.
  • Awareness Training: Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices.
  • Technical Training: Advanced training for IT professionals and security teams.