Cyber-attacks are purposeful attempts to gain unauthorised access to, damage or disable computer systems, networks, or databases. These attacks may be executed by individuals, groups, or nations and can cause widespread harm. Cyber-attacks may occur for various reasons, including financial gain, espionage, or sabotage.

There are some recognisable warning signs that can help you spot cyber-attacks. These include:

• Strange or unexpected messages

• Files that have been deleted unexpectedly.

• Modifications to the setting of your computer.

• An unexplained slowdown in your computer’s performance.

• Others gain access to accounts or files without having authorisation to do so.

Different types of cyber attacks

Experiencing service denial 

A  system is flooded with so much traffic that it can’t handle legitimate requests, so it crashes. Then accessing your data or communicating with others becomes impossible to do. 

Malware

This aims to damage or disable your computer or other devices. It may incorporate ransomware, Trojan Horses, viruses and worms. The malware disables your computer by either corrupting data or preventing you from accessing it.

Phishing

Phishing is an attack where people aim to get you to provide them with information, like your log-in details. They do this by sending you an email from a seemingly legitimate organisation, like your bank or credit card company. The email may ask you to click on a link or open an attachment, which will install malware on your computer.

Social engineering attack

This type involves hackers attempting to get people to give away private, sensitive or confidential details or take actions that allow hackers to access computer systems or data. One example of this is if someone were to call you, claiming to work for your bank. They may ask that you send money to a new account or disclose your personal log-in details.

Insider cyber-attack

An insider attack is one that is conducted by someone who has legitimate access to data and systems, such as an employee or contractor. They can take advantage of their rights of access to steal data or load malware onto the systems. Insiders may be motivated by a wish to get one up over their competitors, make more money, or take revenge.

How can you protect yourself?

Activate a firewall

A firewall is designed to guard your computer or network against unauthorised access. It can be hardware or software-based.  It can be installed on your computer or you can employ a firewall appliance or router. A firewall will typically allow you to control which applications or services can access the Internet and which ones can’t.

Install antivirus software

This software detects and eliminates malware from your devices. It is designed to protect you from phishing attacks by identifying malicious links and attachments in emails. Antivirus software should be updated regularly to ensure it remains effective against the latest threats.

Employ a VPN (a virtual private network)

A VPN creates a protected connection between your device and the VPN provider’s server. It can help keep your data safe from hackers and other online threats. You can download a free VPN or purchase a subscription from any reputable provider. Best practices involve using a VPN when you’re connecting to unsecured networks or accessing public Wi-Fi. It will help keep your data safe and safeguard your anonymity. 

Use a spam filter

Spam filters help keep your email accounts secure from phishing and spam attacks. You can apply them to email accounts with Outlook, Yahoo! Mail, and Gmail. Most spam filters use blocklists and allow lists to pinpoint spam. You can customise the settings depending on what you need.

Implement passwords that are strong

You can do a lot to protect yourself from cyber-attacks by creating passwords that are strong. A strong password is difficult for others to guess. They include a combination of letters, symbols, and numbers. It is a good idea never to use an identical password for more than one account and to regularly change them.

Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication provides an extra layer of security that requires you to provide two pieces of evidence confirming your identity to access your account. Your password is one piece, and the second is a code generated by a secondary device, like a phone or key fob. It can help protect your account from hackers who may have stolen your password.

In closing

While there’s no 100% guaranteed way to protect yourself from cyber attacks, using these six methods will reduce your chances of falling victim to them. Remember, keep devices updated with the latest software and take care when clicking on attachments and links. Also, never share your log-in details or passwords with anyone.