As reported by Intel, there will be approximately 200 billion connected devices by 2020. This provides more opportunity for cyber criminals to carry out cyberattacks, which should prompt concerns over safety on the Web. Unfortunately, today’s increased dependency on electronic devices and the Internet increases vulnerability as well.
Business owners should become aware of several types of cybercrime. Below are some cybercrime methods increasingly used by cyber criminals.
Attacks on the Internet of Things (IoT)
Any device within the IoT, or connected to the Internet, becomes a possible target for hacking and spying. From game consoles to dish washers, criminals may access personal information from connected devices and attack with malware.
Ransomware
Criminals commonly use ransomware for cyber extortion. But now with more connected devices, extortion rises. Hackers can gain control of your accounts and demand ransom payments more than ever. Viruses such as the CryptoLocker virus (September 2013 to May 2014) can take hold of businesses with loose precautions and weak security.
Brick attacks
Another serious attack is a brick attack, performed when perpetrators completely erase bank accounts. By using malware, hackers can infect computers and destroy all stored information. The computers become useless as a result.
Human device and information hacks
Today, human medical devices such as cochlear implants, insulin pumps, defibrillators, and pacemakers are all connected to the IoT. Therefore, those devices are subject to hacking as well. Human information shared through networks (for example, identity authentications, biometric data, and genetic data) can be used for marketing or other malicious purposes.
In our modern world, protecting yourself online is just as important as protecting yourself physically.
Terrorism on the streets make major headlines, but Web terrorism is just as real. No one is entirely safe from cybercrime. Make sure your business is taking the necessary precautions.
