Cyber Attacks – Types and Prevention Methods

Cyber Attacks – Types and Prevention Methods
In the era of Industry 4.0, cybersecurity issues are becoming more serious than ever. Hacker attacks on network systems are increasing, significantly affecting organizations and businesses not only in Vietnam but around the world. Therefore, every business and individual needs to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge to cope with this alarming problem.

What is a cyber attack?

The term “attack” is often associated with combat or competitive activities, referring to aggressively striking an opponent. In cybersecurity, it has a similar meaning. A cyber attack is an attempt to infiltrate a computer network infrastructure, database, website, or device of any organization or individual.

Who is commonly targeted?

The “prey” often targeted by hackers includes individuals, businesses, organizations, and even governments. Attackers may penetrate through an internal network (computers, devices, people). Through people, hackers can gain access via mobile devices, social networks, or software applications.

Why do cyber attacks happen?

In the hacker world, there are “white hats” and “black hats.” They differ in their objectives and intent.

• White-hat hackers perform controlled “attacks” to identify security weaknesses in a system, device, or website in order to protect users and organizations.

• Black-hat hackers, on the other hand, attack systems to cause disruption, extort money, fulfill personal motives, or simply “for fun.”

Most common types of cyber attacks

1. Malware

Over the past decade, with the rapid development of IT, malware has proliferated. Malware is a general term for ransomware, spyware, viruses, and worms. Hackers exploit security vulnerabilities to install malware for malicious purposes. Once infected, users may face access issues, system/device failures, surveillance, or data theft.

2. Phishing Attacks

Phishing is one of the most common attack methods today. Hackers impersonate a trusted organization/person through emails or messages containing a malicious link. Victims are tricked into clicking the link and entering their personal information on a fake website — giving hackers full access to their accounts or banking credentials.

Sometimes phishing is simply used to trick victims into installing malware. (See also: EDR Solution – Security Doctor)

3. SQL Injection

SQL Injection occurs on servers using SQL databases, where hackers insert malicious code to steal sensitive information. This leads to complete data breaches, customer mistrust, reputational damage, and even business collapse.

4. DoS & DDoS Attacks

A DoS (Denial of Service) attack floods a system with massive traffic, causing overload and shutdown—preventing all users from accessing it.
A DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack uses a network of compromised devices to take down websites, game servers, or DNS servers. The danger lies in the fact that the infected devices often don’t even know they are being used as attack tools.

5. Zero-Day Attacks

Zero-day vulnerabilities are security flaws unknown even to software developers, leaving no time for patches. When hackers exploit a zero-day vulnerability, it is extremely difficult for victims to defend against the attack.

6. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

This attack occurs when hackers intercept communication between two parties. By positioning themselves “in the middle,” they can monitor transactions and steal information. This often happens when users connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

These are essential cybersecurity concepts that individuals and businesses must understand to prepare for unexpected threats. If you are looking for professional cybersecurity solutions from a trusted provider, please contact New System Vietnam.