When it comes to cybersecurity, most people are worried about what kinds of viruses are out there and how they can affect their network. They research what to do if they are attacked and study preventative measures to protect their online data. However, in order to effectively respond to a cyberattack, it is essential to understand where they come from. Knowing who is attacking your network and why will not only help you fight off the attack but masters in cybersecurity could help you prevent cyber threats in the future. In addition, you can find more information about cyber security degree on the internet. You can also get cybersecurity certificate programs on eccu.edu website.

What Is a Cyber Threat?

A cyber threat is defined as any malicious attack on an online network in the form of viruses, malware, worms, and bots. Cybercriminals and hackers use specific online tactics and codes to gain access to unauthorized data such as private records, financial information, and intellectual property. Understanding where these attacks come from is an essential step to protecting your data online.

So whether you are an entrepreneur running a business and looking to improve operations or are just concerned about your online data, here are the most common sources of cyberthreats terrorizing the online community.

Nation States

There is a reason President Biden made cybersecurity a crucial aspect of the Department of Homeland’s security mission. It has once been said that World War III will not be fought through traditional warfare but will be fought in an online space. Governments will attack other governments and populations through online warfare tactics like hacking, unleashing computer viruses, crashing systems, and stealing data. While world war III hasn’t yet happened, nations are already using cyberattacks for espionage and to disrupt military activities, communications, and everyday functions. Threats range from everything from promoting propaganda, disrupting online systems, and more.

Criminal Enterprises

Another major player in the cybercrime community is the various criminal enterprises that use the online space to participate in criminal activity. While government-sponsored cyberattacks aim to disrupt governments and civilizations, criminal enterprises are mostly after monetary gain. Criminal groups use sam, phishing, malware, and spyware to conduct online fraud, identity theft, and system extortion. While their goals are profit-based they are notoriously known for committing espionage and developing well-trained hackers.

Terrorists

Terrorist groups use cyberattacks with the goal of promoting terroristic acts. They try to destroy government agencies and civilian populations by exploiting national security systems in an attempt to disrupt the economy, compromise military equipment, and conduct large-scale attacks. Luckily most terrorist groups are underdeveloped when it comes to computer network capabilities and lack the knowledge and skill to be a significant online threat.

Hackers

If you run a small business or just simply surf the web from time to time, hackers are most likely your biggest threat when it comes to online safety. Most hackers are extremely skilled and knowledgeable in an online space. They are able to conduct various attacks using malware, spyware, worms, phishing, and other cybercrime tactics.

Hacker Motivation

Unlike criminal enterprises and terrorist groups, they have a plethora of goals and motivations. Some are motivated by personal gain, revenge, or stalking. Others could be motivated by financial game political activism or even just bragging rights among their peers. Since hackers are always trying to one-up each other new cyber threats are becoming more and more common.

Hacktivists

Hacktivists are a sub-community of the hacker community looking to support political causes and disrupt societal systems rather than seeking financial gain. Hacktivists will target any corporation, business, individual, or government agency that does not align with their views and political ideas. Hacktivists will do everything from integrating propaganda into popular media, exposing wrongdoings, and releasing private information as long as it helps their cause.

Malicious Insiders

Unfortunately, one of the biggest threats to your business could be someone you know. Many cyber threats come from people who already have access to online systems, passwords, and other information. Malicious insiders can be anyone from contractors, employees, business associates,  or any other acquaintance that has access to your online database. Malicious inside attackers are typically motivated by financial gain, stealing information, or disrupting business operations.

Corporate Spies

Another threat to a business’s online network and database could be its competition. Corporate spies are hackers hired by competitors to conduct business or industrial espionage. Their goals are not only to make a profit but disrupt a competitor’s business operations. Using specialized tactics, corporate spies can gain access to private information, steal trade secrets, and cause disarray by attacking vital online infrastructure.

Protect Your Online Data

Whether you are a business owner or just use the internet to shop and scroll through social media, it is essential to protect your online data. While understanding where cyber threats come from is important, it is just one step. It is crucial to run antivirus software, choose strong passwords, and practice other online security measures.