Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats to Watch Out for in 2021
With the increasing use of technology, cybersecurity has become a crucial aspect for businesses, governments, and individuals alike. The year 2020 saw an unprecedented surge in cyber-attacks, and experts predict that the trend is likely to continue in 2021. In this article, we take a closer look at the top 5 cybersecurity threats to watch out for this year.
1. Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are one of the oldest tricks in the book, yet they remain one of the most common and effective methods used by cybercriminals. In a phishing attack, the attacker sends a seemingly legitimate email with a link or attachment that, when clicked or downloaded, installs malware on the victim’s device. With social engineering tactics, such as pretending to be a reputable company or using urgency tactics, the victim is tricked into sharing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information.
2. Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks occur when an attacker encrypts a victim’s files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. These attacks are popular among cybercriminals because they can target both individuals and organizations, and the payoff can be significant. In 2020, the average ransom payment increased by 60% with some cases reaching upwards of $10 million.
3. Insider Threats
An insider threat occurs when a trusted employee or contractor of an organization misuses their access to sensitive information. Insider threats can be intentionally malicious, such as stealing data for personal gain, or unintentionally caused by uninformed actions, such as falling for a phishing scheme. According to a report by Verizon, 48% of data breaches are caused by insiders.
4. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are a type of cyber-attack in which an attacker gains access to a network and remains undetected for an extended period. APTs are complex attacks that are usually targeted and highly sophisticated, making them difficult to detect and mitigate. Once inside the network, the attacker can steal sensitive information, sabotage systems, or launch further attacks.
5. Internet of Things (IoT) Attacks
The Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming more prevalent in our daily lives, with the increasing number of connected devices such as smart home systems and wearables. While IoT provides convenience and efficiency, it also opens up new avenues for cyber-attacks. IoT devices are often not built with security in mind, making them an easy target for cybercriminals. The Mirai botnet attack, which caused widespread disruption to internet services, was carried out using IoT devices.
Conclusion
The year 2021 is poised to witness a continued increase in cyber-attacks, and it is important to be aware of the various types of threats businesses and individuals may face. To protect against cyber threats, it is important to stay informed, follow cybersecurity best practices, and utilize advanced security technologies. By taking proactive measures, we can mitigate the impact of cyber threats and safeguard our data and systems.
