Cyberattack Types

4. Ransomware Attacks

Examples of Past Attacks

In 2021, a prominent medical institution suffered a ransomware attack, where patient data was encrypted. The attackers demanded a ransom equivalent to millions of dollars in Bitcoin for data restoration.

How Powerful Are They?

Ransomware attacks encrypt critical files, rendering them inaccessible. Organizations face severe consequences such as:

• Business Disruption: Operations are halted until the ransom is paid or data is recovered.
• Data Breaches: There is a risk of sensitive data being leaked.
• Financial Loss: Ransoms can range from thousands to millions of dollars, often paid in cryptocurrencies.

Common Targets

Industries where data is highly critical are often targeted, such as:

• Medical Institutions: Patient data is crucial and often irreplaceable.
• Financial Institutions: Banking and financial data are highly valuable.
• Government Agencies: Sensitive information can be exploited for geopolitical gains.

5. Zero-Day Attacks

Examples of Past Attacks

A well-known browser vulnerability was exploited, resulting in millions of devices being infected with malware. The attack occurred before the vulnerability was publicly disclosed or patched.

How Powerful Are They?

Zero-day attacks exploit unknown vulnerabilities, causing damage such as:

• No Time for Defense: Organizations and individuals are caught off guard.
• Wide Spread: Malware or exploits can quickly propagate across systems.
• System Infiltration: Attackers gain unauthorized access to sensitive systems or data.

Common Targets

Organizations that rely on widely-used software are common targets, including:

• Technology Companies: Exploits in operating systems or applications.
• Public Infrastructure: Utilities and critical infrastructure systems.
• Individuals: Personal devices and browsers are vulnerable.