Cybercriminals constantly evolve tactics to gain unauthorized network access and launch cyberattacks. Organizations and individuals need to proactively understand and defend against these cyber threats.
Cybersecurity threats encompass a wide range of malicious activities that compromise the security and integrity of computer systems and networks. These threats can vary in complexity and impact, ranging from simple scams to highly sophisticated exploits:
Malware, short for "malicious software," is a common component of most cyberattacks. It refers to software code designed to harm computer systems or users. Malware can take various forms, including ransomware, Trojan horses, spyware, and worms.
Social engineering is a technique that manipulates individuals into taking actions that compromise their own or their organization's security. Phishing, the most prevalent form of social engineering, involves fraudulent emails, attachments, text messages, or phone calls designed to deceive victims into sharing sensitive information or downloading malware:
In a man-in-the-middle attack, a cybercriminal intercepts and relays messages between two parties to steal data. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks are often susceptible to such attacks. Cybercriminals can eavesdrop on network connections and gain access to sensitive information exchanged between users.
Denial-of-service (DoS) attacks overwhelm websites, applications, or systems with fraudulent traffic, rendering them slow or unavailable to legitimate users. DDoS attacks use a network of malware-infected devices or bots, known as a botnet, to launch the attack. These attacks can disrupt services and cause significant financial losses.
Zero-day exploits target unknown or unpatched software, hardware, or firmware security flaws. These vulnerabilities give cybercriminals the advantage of using systems before vendors can address them. Notable examples include the Log4Shell vulnerability, which affected numerous web applications, cloud services, and servers.
Password attacks involve cybercriminals attempting to guess or steal login credentials. These attacks can rely on social engineering techniques or brute force methods, repeatedly trying different password combinations until one is successful.
IoT attacks exploit vulnerabilities in connected devices, such as smart home devices and industrial control systems. Cybercriminals can take control of these devices, steal data, or use them as a botnet for other malicious purposes.
Injection attacks involve hackers injecting malicious code into programs or downloading malware to execute remote commands. This enables them to read or modify databases and alter website data.
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Recognizing the urgent need to bolster cybersecurity resilience across the healthcare industry, the Biden-Harris administration spearheaded the Health Sector Cyber Initiative. Under this landmark program, tech giants Microsoft and Google have stepped up to the plate, committing to provide rural and critical access hospitals with a lifeline of free and heavily discounted cybersecurity services.
The commitments from Microsoft and Google indicate the private sector's role in supporting the resilience of the rural healthcare system. By providing free and discounted cybersecurity services, these tech giants are stepping up to safeguard the communities that rely on these facilities for their well-being.
As the Biden administration's Health Sector Cyber Initiative continues to drive progress, the collaborative efforts of the public and private sectors will be necessary in ensuring that every American, regardless of their geographic location, can access the care they need without the threat of cyberattacks.
A cyberattack is a deliberate exploitation of computer systems, technology-dependent enterprises, and networks. It involves unauthorized access, disruption, or theft of information from a targeted system or network.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide