As we all are living in the space of cyberspace, we all are at the risk of cybercrime which is a growing concern for individuals to the businesses world, and even the governments around the world. In many cases these are institutionalized by many secret agencies and officials and hackers to make money by blackmailing the individuals. The cybercrime space refers to such criminal activities that are carried out using the internet or other forms of digital communication systems by stealing or manipulating users' data. Cybercriminals use many high-end technology to steal personal information, money, or even to cause serious harm to personal computer systems and networks.
There are many types of cybercrimes that includes-
Identity theft: personal information is stolen for bank accounts, applying for loans, or making purchases.
Hacking: steal information or cause damage to financial information, trade secrets, or personal information.
Malware attacks: steal personal information, launch cyber attacks, or control a computer remotely.
Phishing scams: fraudulent emails or messages to steal login credentials.
Ransomware attacks: encrypts files on a computer system for blackmailing user by making files inaccessible.
Besides, launching fake giveaways, betting sites, adult sites, games and so many tools are being used to provoke the individual and steal data or money in the cyberspace. The tremendous amount shows how big the space is which must be a sector to protect the users.
It is clear from this report that the Malware attacks are the top among all the sectors. Such attacks is done through-
Pirated software
Modded software for android
Phishing links
Advertisements
Unknown software through abrupt permission
Unprotected networks
Lack of security
The report publish by the FBI shows how frequently such attacks are increasing every year which is an alarming issue for our current internet-based world. the real picture is more serious which is revealed by the following published report summary of the recent times-
According to the Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is expected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015. The global cost of cybercrime in 2020 was estimated to be $1 trillion which is a big amount undoubtedly.
According to the Identity Theft Resource Center's End of Year Data Breach Report, the number of data breaches in the US increased by 19% in 2020, with a total of 1,001 breaches reported.
The McAfee Labs Threats Report of August 2020 says that in 2020, there were over 300,000 new malicious files detected every day.
The Check Point Research Report of 2021 Cyber Security outlines that the Ransomware attacks increased by 485% in 2020, with the average ransom demand increasing by 178%. Also the financial services industry was the second most targeted sector for cyber attacks in 2020, accounting for 22% of all attacks.
according to the IBM Security report- 2020 X-Force Threat Intelligence Index says that the phishing attacks increased by 350% in 2020, with the COVID-19 pandemic being a major factor in the increase.
according to the IBM Security, their Cost of a Data Breach Report 2020 tells us the average cost of a data breach in the US was $8.64 million in 2020.
The Proofpoint highlights the report on Protecting People: A Quarterly Analysis of Highly Targeted Cyber Attacks which reveals that the social media phishing attacks increased by 500% in 2020.
According to the Beazley Breach Response Services report on Beazley Breach Insights 2021, in 2020, the healthcare industry was the most targeted sector for cyber attacks, with 27% of all attacks being directed at healthcare organizations.
Most of the time the cryptocurrency is the main medium of transaction of the money to avoid the risks in these crimes. the above chart shows the amount of cryptos taken by the illicit entities which is increasing recently specially the scams which can be avoided with proper knowledge among the people.
It is notable according to the 2020 report that Russia is liable for most the darknet transactions where China is top in the Ransomware attacks. And USA is moderately topper but top at the scamming sector and the stealing funds.
Use strong and unique passwords and change your passwords regularly.
Keep your software up to date to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting vulnerabilities.
Use antivirus software to protect it from malware and other types of cyber attacks.
Be cautious of suspicious emails from unknown senders.
Use two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
Back up your data to protect against ransomware attacks.
I hope you like some of these useful tips for protecting your digital life in online activities against the cyber attacks. Thus you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime. Remember to always be vigilant when using the internet and follow best practices for online security. I am also inviting you to my upcoming blogs. And if you have any kinds of queries, you can ask me in the comments. I will try to answer at my level best.
Thanks a lot for your time and attention, I will catch you at the next one.
Have a great day!
