Types of cyber attacks

Types of cyber attacks

A single data breach can shatter a business. From stolen data to operational chaos, cyber attacks are no longer just IT’s problem. As cybercriminals grow more creative and sophisticated, everyone’s on the front line.

Here’s our list of some of the most common cyber attack types, the damage they can cause and what you can do to protect your business.

Common cyber attacks

Cybercriminals use various tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in your systems and steal sensitive data.

What are the 9 most common types of cyber attacks?

1. Malware

Malware is a catch-all term for software designed to corrupt data, hijack systems, or create back doors for future attacks, including viruses, worms, Trojans, and spyware. Malware can sneak into your network through infected attachments, websites, or compromised software. It can cause havoc by damaging files, stealing data, or locking you out of your systems.

2. Phishing

Phishing attacks are highly deceptive. Cybercriminals pretend to be trusted organisations, tricking you into revealing sensitive information. It’s often carried out through fake emails or websites that look convincingly legitimate. Falling for them can lead to financial loss, identity theft, or unauthorised access.

3. Ransomware

One of the most devastating types of cyber attack involves cybercriminals encrypting your data and demanding a ransom for its release. The impossible choice is to pay up and hope they restore the data, or lose it permanently. Either way, ransomware can bring your business to a standstill.

4. Password attacks

Techniques like brute force attacks where algorithms guess passwords, which exploits stolen usernames or passwords, are common. Weak or reused passwords across multiple platforms increase your vulnerability.

5. Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks

DoS and DDoS attacks overwhelm your systems with traffic, crashing your network or website. A DoS attack is launched from a single source, while a DDoS attack involves multiple sources working together. Either can lead to downtime, lost revenue, and a damaged reputation.

6. SQL injection

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a specialised programme that talks to databases. SQL injection inserts malicious code into forms or search fields, allowing attackers to access, modify, or delete data, and expose sensitive customer information.

7. Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks

MitM attacks intercept communications between two parties – often on unsecured networks – to eavesdrop or manipulate the data being transferred. It’s particularly dangerous if sensitive information like login credentials or financial data is involved.

8. Insider threats

Not all security threats come from outside. Insider attacks happen when employees, contractors, or business partners misuse their access – typically for money. As they’ve got legitimate access, they’re harder to detect and prevent.

9. Zero-day exploits

Zero-day exploits target software vulnerabilities that the provider isn’t yet aware of. Without an available patch, attackers can take advantage, making them extremely dangerous.

Cyber attacks can disrupt your business in an instant, stealing data, crashing your systems and destroying your reputation. But by taking the right precautions, such as regular updates, strong passwords, employee training, and proactive network monitoring, you can stay ahead of evolving threats and reduce your risk.

Ready to take the next step? Speak to our expert V-Hub Digital Advisers today for free 1-2-1, personalised cybersecurity support.