You don’t need us to tell you that cyber threats are getting more advanced, sophisticated and harder to identify in both everyday life and business. With an overwhelming mass of news and information about advancing cyber threats, it can be difficult to decipher what the real threats are to your business.
Findings from our recent data showed that the top three risky security behaviours, that respondents were most concerned about, include:
But, what actually are the most common forms of cyber attack? Read on to discover what the most common forms of cyber attacks are in 2024, and how to know if your team is at risk of accidentally causing a breach.
Malware, encompassing threats like ransomware, spyware and viruses, can severely disrupt your operations. These attacks often occur when an employee unknowingly introduces the malware into the system by clicking a malicious link or downloading an infected file. The damage can range from stolen data to complete system lockdowns, resulting in significant financial and reputational harm.
Social engineering is widely considered the most common form of cyber attack. It involves manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. Common techniques include phishing, where attackers trick individuals into clicking on malicious links or providing sensitive information through deceptive emails. Your team may be at risk if they are not properly trained in recognising these tactics, such as suspicious emails or unsolicited requests for sensitive data. To mitigate this risk, it's essential to regularly educate your team on cybersecurity best practices and conduct simulated phishing exercises to reinforce awareness.
Phishing remains one of the most successful social engineering methods attackers use to gain unauthorised access to sensitive information. Fraudulent emails that appear legitimate can trick even the most cautious employees into revealing confidential data or installing harmful software. As phishing tactics grow more sophisticated, the risk increases, particularly if employees are not adequately prepared to identify these threats. Traditional cyber awareness training isn’t enough to prevent every phishing mistake from employees.
Real-time security interventions with Redflags® help prevent phishing by providing gentle nudges to guide behaviours when someone may be at risk. This not only provides helpful intervention before a potential risk occurs, but also helps educate employees on what they should look out for in future.
With social engineering attacks still so prevalent, it’s clear that traditional cyber security training isn’t cutting it. With a modern approach, rooted in behavioural science, a tool like Redflags® engages staff with captivating anecdotes and real-life examples - making security hyper relevant to their roles and personal lives.
MitM attacks occur when an unauthorised party intercepts communication between two entities, often exploiting unsecured networks. Once inside, the attacker can steal information or manipulate communications without the parties involved realising it. Employees using public Wi-Fi networks or failing to secure their devices properly are particularly susceptible to this type of attack.
Preventing cyber threats starts with education and proactive measures. Maintaining strong "cyber hygiene" - consistent practices and habits related to technology use - is essential for any company.
Examples of effective cyber hygiene include:
Redflags® innovative cyber solutions can encourage good cyber hygiene while fostering a culture of continuous awareness and vigilance. Employees are consistently reminded of best practices, such as using secure Wi-Fi networks, enabling multi-factor authentication and keeping their software up to date. By embedding these reminders into daily routines, Redflags® ensures that cybersecurity becomes an ongoing priority, rather than a once-a-year checkbox.
If you’d like to know more about how Redflags® addresses these challenges within your business, please get in touch.