Cyber attacks are happening more often and becoming more complex every day. A Cyber Security Services Provider is important because understanding who these attackers are and how they work is essential for everyone—both businesses and individuals. In this blog, we’ll look at 21+ different cyber attackers, including those who spread malware and insiders who might threaten security from within.
By learning about these attackers and their methods, you can better protect yourself and your organization against potential threats. Let’s dive in and get to know the various kinds of cyber attackers that experts warn us about!
A cyberattack is a deliberate and malicious attempt to breach the security of a computer system, network, or device. The goal of attackers in cyber security can vary widely, but it often includes stealing sensitive data, disrupting services, or damaging systems. Cyberattacks can be carried out by individuals, groups, or even state-sponsored actors, and they can target a wide range of entities, from individuals to large corporations and government institutions.
Understanding the types of threat actors in cyber security is crucial for effective defense strategies. Here’s a list of threat actors that organizations should be aware of:
Malware attackers create and distribute malicious software designed to harm computers and networks. This software can come in various forms, including viruses, worms, and Trojans. Once installed, malware can steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, or create backdoors for future access. These Types of Attackers often use social engineering tactics to trick users into installing this software, which can lead to significant data breaches and financial losses.
Types of Malware | Description | Examples |
Viruses | Attach to clean files and spread throughout a computer system, often corrupting files or causing system failures. | ILOVEYOU virus, Mydoom |
Worms | Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without user intervention, often consuming network resources and causing slowdowns. | Code Red, Nimda |
Trojans | Disguised as legitimate software to trick users into downloading and installing them, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access. | Zeus Trojan, Emotet |
MITM attackers in network security intercept communications between two parties, usually without their knowledge, to eavesdrop, steal data, or manipulate information being exchanged. They can alter the data being sent or received, leading to misinformation and unauthorized access to sensitive information. These attacks are often executed on unsecured networks, making public Wi-Fi hotspots particularly vulnerable. Awareness of the risks associated with these attacks is crucial for protecting sensitive communications.
Common Tactics | Description | Examples |
Session Hijacking | Taking control of a user’s session after they’ve logged in, allowing the attacker to impersonate the victim. | Attacks on webmail or online banking sessions. |
Wi-Fi Eavesdropping | Intercepting data sent over unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, allowing attackers to capture sensitive information like passwords and credit card details. | MITM attacks on coffee shop Wi-Fi networks. |
Phishers use deceptive emails, messages, or websites to trick individuals into revealing personal information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers. They often create a sense of urgency or fear, compelling victims to act quickly without thinking critically about the request. Phishing attacks can be highly effective due to their manipulation of human psychology, making it essential for users to be cautious of unsolicited communications and verify the legitimacy of requests.
Types of Phishing | Description | Examples |
Spear Phishing | Targeting specific individuals or organizations with personalized attacks, making them more convincing. | Targeted attacks on executives within a company. |
Whaling | Aimed at high-profile individuals, such as executives or government officials, to gain access to sensitive information. | Attack on high-ranking officials to steal sensitive data. |
SQL injection attackers exploit vulnerabilities in web applications by injecting malicious SQL code into a database query. This allows them to manipulate databases, retrieve sensitive information, or even delete entire tables. SQL injection attacks can have devastating consequences for organizations, leading to data breaches and loss of customer trust. Regular security assessments and updates are essential for safeguarding against these attacks.
Impact | Description | Examples |
Unauthorized Access | Attackers can gain access to sensitive data, including user accounts and personal information. | The Sony Pictures hack (2014) exploited SQL injection. |
Data Deletion | Attackers may delete important data or disrupt database operations. | The attack on TalkTalk (2015) involved data breaches through SQL injection. |
Ransomware attackers deploy malicious software that encrypts a victim’s files and demands payment for the decryption key. These attacks can cripple organizations, making critical data inaccessible and forcing them to choose between paying the ransom or losing their data permanently. Ransomware is often spread through phishing emails or by exploiting vulnerabilities in software, making it vital for individuals and organizations to maintain robust backup solutions and employee training.
Types of Ransomware | Description | Examples |
Crypto Ransomware | Encrypts files on the victim’s system, making them inaccessible without the decryption key. | WannaCry (2017), CryptoLocker |
Locker Ransomware | Locks the victim out of their system entirely, rendering it unusable until the ransom is paid. | Police Locker ransomware that displays law enforcement logos. |
Insider threats are individuals within an organization who misuse their access to sensitive information and systems, whether maliciously or inadvertently. This type of attacker can pose a significant risk to security, as they often have knowledge of the organization’s vulnerabilities and security protocols. Insider threats can arise from disgruntled employees seeking revenge or well-intentioned employees who inadvertently expose sensitive data through negligence.
Types of Insider Threats | Description | Examples |
Malicious Insiders | Employees who intentionally steal or sabotage data for personal gain or to harm the organization. | The case of Edward Snowden leaking NSA documents. |
Negligent Insiders | Employees who unintentionally expose sensitive information due to carelessness or lack of awareness. | An employee accidentally sending sensitive data to the wrong email address. |
DNS tunnelers exploit the Domain Name System (DNS) to tunnel malware and exfiltrate data from a network. By encoding data in DNS queries, attackers can bypass traditional security measures that don’t inspect DNS traffic. This technique allows attackers to communicate with compromised systems undetected, leading to data breaches and unauthorized access to networks.
Impact | Description | Examples |
Bypassing Security | Enables attackers to evade detection by traditional firewalls and security systems. | The 2013 attack on the Syrian government’s networks using DNS tunneling. |
Data Exfiltration | Allows sensitive data to be stolen without alerting security teams. | The use of DNS tunneling in the Night Dragon attacks. |
Social engineers manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information through deception. They often exploit human psychology, using tactics like building trust, creating a sense of urgency, or posing as authority figures to persuade victims. Social engineering attacks can take many forms, including phishing, pretexting, and baiting, making it essential for individuals and organizations to be aware of these tactics and implement robust training programs.
Common Tactics | Description | Examples |
Pretexting | Creating a fabricated scenario to steal information, often involving impersonation. | An attacker posing as an IT technician to gain access to a secure area. |
Baiting | Offering something enticing to lure a victim into revealing sensitive information. | Leaving infected USB drives in public places to see who will plug them in. |
XSS attackers inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users, allowing them to steal information or manipulate sessions. By exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, these attackers can execute scripts in the browsers of unsuspecting users. XSS attacks can lead to data theft, loss of session information, and unauthorized access to user accounts, making it crucial for developers to implement strong security measures.
Types of XSS | Description | Examples |
Stored XSS | Malicious scripts are stored on the server and executed when users visit the affected page. | The MySpace Samy worm that spread through user profiles. |
Reflected XSS | Scripts are reflected off a web server and executed immediately, often through deceptive links. | An attacker sending a link that executes malicious scripts when clicked. |
Zero-day exploiters target vulnerabilities in software that are not yet known to the vendor or public, often before patches are available. These attacks can be particularly damaging because defenses may not exist yet to protect against them. Zero-day exploits can lead to significant breaches, and organizations must prioritize timely software updates and threat intelligence to mitigate risks.
Impact | Description | Examples |
High Risk | High potential for damage due to the lack of available defenses and mitigations. | The Stuxnet worm that exploited multiple zero-day vulnerabilities in industrial systems. |
Stealthy Operations | Attackers can operate undetected until the vulnerability is publicly disclosed. | The 2020 SolarWinds cyberattack used zero-day exploits to infiltrate government systems. |
Botnet controllers create networks of compromised computers (botnets) that can be controlled remotely to execute various attacks. These botnets are often used for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, where multiple systems flood a target with traffic, rendering it inaccessible. Attackers may rent botnets to other cybercriminals, creating a profitable underground economy.
Uses of Botnets | Description | Examples |
DDoS Attacks | Coordinating a large number of compromised devices to overwhelm a target system. | The Mirai botnet attack that targeted DNS provider Dyn in 2016. |
Spamming | Sending massive amounts of spam emails or phishing attempts from compromised devices. | The Rustock botnet used for sending spam emails to promote counterfeit drugs. |
Cryptojackers use the resources of unsuspecting victims to mine cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This type of attack doesn’t damage the system but drastically slows it down by consuming processing power and electricity. Cryptojacking can happen when a victim unknowingly downloads malware or visits a website with malicious scripts. Since it’s often difficult to detect, cryptojacking can persist for extended periods, draining system performance.
Types of Cryptojacking | Description | Examples |
Browser-based Cryptojacking | Malicious scripts run in a browser without the user’s knowledge, using their computer to mine cryptocurrency. | The Coinhive script was widely used in cryptojacking attacks. |
Malware-based Cryptojacking | Malware installed on a system mines cryptocurrency using the device’s resources. | The Smominru botnet infected over 500,000 devices to mine cryptocurrency. |
Password attackers use various techniques to steal or crack passwords, gaining unauthorized access to accounts or systems. These attacks often involve brute force methods, guessing numerous password combinations until the correct one is found, or using stolen credentials from data breaches. Protecting against password attacks requires strong, unique passwords and the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Types of Password Attacks | Description | Examples |
Brute Force Attack | Guessing a password by trying multiple combinations until the correct one is found. | Attackers using automated tools to break into weakly protected accounts. |
Credential Stuffing | Using stolen login credentials from a data breach to gain access to other accounts. | The 2019 credential stuffing attack that targeted Disney+ accounts. |
IoT attackers target connected devices like smart cameras, thermostats, and medical devices, exploiting vulnerabilities in their security. Many IoT devices are poorly secured and can be easily compromised, allowing attackers to take control or use them in larger attacks, such as botnets. As IoT devices become more widespread, their security weaknesses pose a growing concern for both individuals and organizations.
Common Targets | Description | Examples |
Smart Home Devices | Devices such as cameras, lights, and locks that can be remotely controlled or manipulated. | The 2016 Mirai botnet used compromised IoT devices to launch a DDoS attack. |
Medical Devices | Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in healthcare equipment like pacemakers and insulin pumps. | The WannaCry ransomware attack affected medical devices in the NHS. |
Supply chain attackers infiltrate organizations by compromising third-party vendors or service providers that have access to the target’s systems. These attacks exploit the trust between organizations and their partners, allowing attackers to inject malicious code into software updates or hardware components. Supply chain attacks can be highly effective and difficult to detect, with significant consequences for both the victim and its customers.
Common Methods | Description | Examples |
Software Compromise | Injecting malicious code into software updates or legitimate applications. | The 2020 SolarWinds attack, where hackers compromised a software update to infiltrate government and corporate networks. |
Hardware Tampering | Modifying hardware components during manufacturing or distribution to introduce vulnerabilities. | The 2018 report of Chinese spies allegedly implanting chips in servers used by major U.S. companies. |
Trojan attackers use malware disguised as legitimate software to trick users into installing it. Once inside the system, the Trojan can steal sensitive data, install other malware, or create backdoors for future access. Trojans often spread through phishing emails or malicious websites and are a common tool used by attackers to bypass security defenses.
Types of Trojans | Description | Examples |
Backdoor Trojan | Allows attackers to remotely control a system, bypassing normal authentication processes. | The Emotet Trojan has been used for data theft and spreading other malware. |
Banking Trojan | Targets online banking users by stealing login credentials and financial information. | The Zeus Trojan was one of the most infamous banking Trojans. |
Spoofers impersonate another user, device, or network to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or granting unauthorized access. Spoofing attacks can take various forms, including email spoofing, IP spoofing, and website spoofing. By convincing victims that they are interacting with a trusted source, spoofers can steal data or install malware on their devices.
Types of Spoofing | Description | Examples |
Email Spoofing | Sending emails from a forged sender address to trick recipients into believing it’s from a legitimate source. | The 2020 Twitter Bitcoin scam used email spoofing to impersonate celebrities. |
IP Spoofing | Altering IP addresses to make malicious traffic appear as if it’s coming from a trusted source. | Attackers using IP spoofing to launch DDoS attacks on websites. |
Brute force attackers use automated tools to systematically guess passwords or encryption keys by trying every possible combination until the correct one is found. While this method can be time-consuming, it’s often effective against weak passwords or poorly secured systems. Organizations can protect themselves by implementing rate limiting and using strong, complex passwords.
Common Targets | Description | Examples |
Password Cracking | Repeatedly guessing passwords until the correct one is found. | Attackers using brute force to crack weakly encrypted files or accounts. |
Encryption Breaking | Attempting to decrypt data by trying all possible encryption key combinations. | Brute force attacks on WPA2 encryption in Wi-Fi networks. |
Drive-by attackers exploit vulnerabilities in web browsers or plugins to automatically download malware when users visit an infected website. These attacks often occur without the victim’s knowledge, making them especially dangerous. Drive-by attacks are commonly used to install spyware, ransomware, or other forms of malware on the victim’s device.
Common Methods | Description | Examples |
Malicious Ads (Malvertising) | Embedding malware in online ads that automatically infect users when they visit certain websites. | The 2018 exploit in online ads that infected users through legitimate websites. |
Compromised Websites | Attackers inject malicious code into websites that download malware onto visitors’ devices. | The attack on websites using the WordPress platform by exploiting outdated plugins. |
Spyware attackers use malicious software to secretly monitor a user’s activity, often capturing sensitive information such as keystrokes, passwords, and browsing habits. This data can be sold to third parties or used to steal personal information. Spyware can be installed through infected websites, email attachments, or bundled with legitimate software downloads.
Types of Spyware | Description | Examples |
Keyloggers | Records a user’s keystrokes to capture sensitive data like passwords and credit card numbers. | The FinFisher spyware was used to monitor activists and dissidents. |
Adware | Tracks users’ browsing habits to serve targeted advertisements, often without their consent. | CoolWebSearch was an adware program that tracked users’ web browsing. |
Worm attackers deploy self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without any user intervention. Worms exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems or applications, often consuming bandwidth and causing network slowdowns. They can also carry payloads that install other types of malware, such as ransomware or spyware, on infected devices.
Types of Worms | Description | Examples |
Internet Worms | Spread rapidly across the internet, exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in systems. | The Blaster worm spread across Windows systems in the early 2000s. |
Email Worms | Spread through infected email attachments, often appearing as legitimate messages from trusted contacts. | The Melissa worm spread by sending infected files to email contacts. |
APT attackers are highly skilled, well-funded groups that carry out long-term cyberattacks on specific targets, such as governments, corporations, or critical infrastructure. These attackers use a variety of methods, including malware, social engineering, and zero-day exploits, to gain and maintain access to networks over extended periods. Their goal is often to steal sensitive information or disrupt operations without being detected.
Common Methods | Description | Examples |
Data Theft | Stealing sensitive information, such as intellectual property or government secrets. | The 2011 RSA cyberattack involved the theft of sensitive data through an APT. |
Espionage | Spying on organizations or governments to gain competitive advantages or disrupt operations. | The 2020 SolarWinds attack was a major APT operation targeting government agencies. |
Cloud misconfiguration attackers exploit errors or weaknesses in how cloud services are set up. These misconfigurations can leave sensitive data exposed, allowing attackers to access or manipulate it. Common issues include unsecured storage buckets, overly permissive access controls, and failure to enable encryption. Cloud misconfiguration can result in data breaches or allow attackers to launch further attacks from compromised cloud environments.
Common Methods | Description | Examples |
Unsecured Storage Buckets | Attackers access cloud storage that hasn’t been properly secured, allowing them to view or steal sensitive data. | The 2019 Capital One data breach due to a misconfigured AWS S3 bucket. |
Misconfigured Access Controls | Attackers exploit overly permissive access settings, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information. | Misconfigurations in Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform exposed customer data. |
Denial of Service (DoS) attackers aim to make a system, network, or service unavailable by overwhelming it with a flood of traffic or requests. This type of attack often involves multiple computers (DDoS) and can cause significant downtime for websites or services. Attackers typically use botnets to carry out large-scale DoS attacks.
Types of DoS Attacks | Description | Examples |
DDoS (Distributed DoS) | Multiple compromised devices (botnets) flood a target with traffic, causing it to crash. | The 2016 Mirai botnet DDoS attack brought down major websites by targeting DNS provider Dyn. |
SYN Flood Attack | Attackers send repeated SYN requests to overwhelm a server’s resources. | SYN flood attacks are commonly used against web servers to disrupt operations. |
Cyberattackers typically target a wide range of individuals, organizations, and industries. Some of the most common targets include:
Preventing cyberattacks involves a combination of good security practices, technologies, and awareness. Here are some key strategies:
cyber attackers are always finding new ways to cause harm, which is why it’s so important to stay informed about the different threats out there. By understanding these attacks and taking the right steps to protect yourself, you can keep your data safe and secure.
Need help to stay ahead of cyber threats? Reach out to us today to see how we can help protect your business with the right security solutions!
1. What are the 10 most common types of cyber attacks?
The 10 most common types of cyber attacks include:
2. What are the 7 types of cyber security?
The 7 types of cyber security are:
3. How many types of cyberspace are there?
Cyberspace can be broadly categorized into three types:
4. How many types of cyber securities are there?
There are various types of cyber security, with the most recognized categories including:
These cover the main areas of protection against cyber threats.
5. What are the 7 layers of cyber security?
The 7 layers of cyber security, often referred to as the “Defense in Depth” approach, include:
6. What are the 3 levels of cyber security?
The 3 levels of cyber security typically include: