BotNet News

Cybercrime involves illegal activity that uses computers, networks and digital technology to steal data, commit fraud or disrupt systems. It targets individuals, businesses and governments and causes financial loss, compromised records and tarnished reputations. Its reach and complexity extend worldwide, making it a challenge for authorities to investigate and prosecute.

Cyber criminals can infect a computer with malware, which can spread quickly to damage or destroy files or programs. Hackers can take over entire systems by flooding them with traffic, known as a Denial of Service attack, which is one of the tactics behind the massive attacks on eHarmony, LinkedIn and Twitter in 2012. A hacked company’s servers can contain valuable information to help investigators track down the criminals. However, a criminal can also use this information to blackmail the victim into paying them money, which is known as ransomware.

Another way cybercriminals can profit is by using a technique called social engineering to trick victims into performing actions or divulging confidential information. They often do this on platforms such as online dating sites, where they build relationships with potential victims before requesting money or information.

Despite their growing sophistication, cyberattacks continue to hit companies and individuals hard. A recent report from Hiscox highlights that 67% of SMEs believe that a successful cyberattack would force them to close, and many struggle to attract new customers or maintain trust after an incident. This is partly due to a lack of robust cybersecurity, with SMEs often relying on trusted third-party suppliers that can infiltrate a network with ease.