Cyber security threats are threats that focus on gaining access to an organization’s sensitive data. Unfortunately, it is called a threat for a reason. Attackers generally want to gain access in order to steal data. There are many different ways and reasons that attackers want to get into an IT environment, so let’s take a closer look.
Sources of cyber security threats
The sources of emerging cyber threats and attacks are seemingly endless. There are all types of reasons and motivations why someone wants to break in. Let’s look at some of the more common sources of cyber attacks and see if we can dig a little deeper.
Corporate spies
One source of cyber threats is corporate spies. The larger your company gets, the more likely it is that competitors or researchers will want to steal sensitive data. Cyber criminals may attempt a data breach for financial or personal gain. When it comes to safeguarding trade secrets, make sure to take extra precautions.
Hacktivists
If you are engaged in activism for some cause, DDoS and hacktivists may attack your website to prove a point. These cyber criminals may want to do something as simple as defacing your website or they may want to put you out of business.
Disgruntled employees
Another source for cyber security threats are disgruntled employees. A disgruntled employee may want to steal data or information to get back at the organization. Ex-employee cyber criminals may steal sensitive corporate data for financial gain.
Hackers/Cyber criminals
Hackers or cyber criminals are people who seek to exploit vulnerabilities and breach critical infrastructure. In today’s media, the term hacker has a generally negative connotation, and the truth of the matter is we may not know their motivation.
These are just a few items in the cyber security threat landscape. The fact of the matter is that a solid information security strategy and policy are paramount to keeping hackers out, no matter the motivation.
Stay tuned for the next blog where we will take a look at some types of cyber threats and how protect yourself from them.
