Common Information Security Threats and How to Protect Against Them

Computer security threats are constantly evolving and finding new ways to harm, steal or compromise information. The threats vary, from phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks to data breaches and malware infections.

Malware is invasive software that wreaks havoc on systems, including stealing sensitive information and changing passwords. Other threats include industrial spies who seek monetary gain, terrorists who disrupt operations, and cyberattacks from nation-states.

Phishing

A standard method of social engineering, phishing, involves sending fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from a trusted source. For example, attackers can impersonate in-house tech support to lure employees into handing over passwords and other personal information.

Once an attacker gains a user’s credentials, they can use them to infiltrate the network and steal data. Attackers can also use a compromised user to spread malware and phishing attacks throughout the organization. Implementing email filtering, information security threats, and employee training to protect against phishing attacks is essential.

Computer viruses and worms can wreak havoc on systems and networks, stealing sensitive information or disrupting operations. For example, a worm can replicate itself so often that it consumes hard disk space or memory and causes the system to run slower. Another dangerous form of malware is a Trojan horse, which masquerades as a legitimate program but allows a hacker remote access to the computer.

Malware

Malware is a broad term that covers a wide range of computer programs threat actors use to penetrate systems and steal data. Viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and spyware are typical types of malware. Trojan horses, for example, allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to a user’s device and install software such as keyloggers or crypto mining, which steal CPU power to generate income. Spyware can steal personal information and track internet usage, and adware displays unwanted advertisements on the screen. Attackers are motivated by various reasons, from beginner “script kiddies” who leverage ready-made threat toolkits to sophisticated operators who carry out cyberattacks for monetary or industrial espionage purposes.

New malware strains are evolving rapidly, enabling them to bypass traditional security defenses. These threats rely on evasion and obfuscation to mask malicious activity.

Identity Theft

A significant information security threat involves someone taking your personal information and using it without your permission. This can include the theft of credit card information, social security numbers, and other data that can be used for monetary gain or to commit other crimes.

Cyberattackers range from beginner “script kiddies” who leverage ready-made hacking tools to experienced operators who can bypass organizational defenses. These hackers can use various tactics, including privilege escalation, to gain unauthorized access to systems and processes.

Increasingly, people keep sensitive information on their smartphones and other mobile devices. This can include email, financial accounts, and other private data. When these devices are lost or stolen, the data may be exposed.

Never use the same password for multiple online accounts to prevent identity theft, and always secure your phone with a password. Additionally, shred credit card receipts, copies of credit applications, and other personal documentation. Thieves may also use trash and recycling bins to look for these documents. In addition, consider signing up for a fraud monitoring service to detect suspicious activity.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

Man-in-the-Middle attacks occur when an attacker intercepts data transferred between two parties. This allows them to spy on the victim, steal credentials or otherwise alter the conversation. Any interaction that isn’t properly secured, such as logins at financial sites or conversations between users in a chat app, is susceptible to this attack.

Hackers can use various techniques to intercept this information, including eavesdropping, brute force attacks, and credential spraying. They can also create fake websites resembling actual services, such as a bank’s website. Then, they send victims to the phony site via email.

It can be challenging to detect a man-in-the-middle attack once it’s too late. However, checking for proper page authentication and implementing tamper detection can help prevent them.

Supply Chain Attacks

A supply chain attack is a particularly devastating variety of cyber aggression. By compromising just one third-party supplier, attackers can expand their reach across the target organization’s network. This is why attacks such as the SolarWinds breach that compromised updates for widely used software are so damaging.

This information security threat can take many forms, including data breaches, malware infections, and even ransomware. One way attackers compromise a supply chain is by stealing certificates that vouch for the legitimacy and safety of a software application. This allows attackers to peddle malicious software that exposes security loopholes and creates botnets.

Organizations should ensure their suppliers and business partners share their commitment to protecting information to mitigate the risk of a supply chain attack. They should also implement a Privileged Access Management (PAM) framework that disrupts the typical attack trajectory followed by most cybercriminals, including nation-states. This is especially important when working with several suppliers, such as managed service providers and hardware, software, and technology vendors.