The Different Types of Data Breaches

While it might be a sobering fact, it is one that all companies need to be aware of: data breaches are becoming more common. In fact, one study showed that cyberattacks compromise sixty-eight records every second. As of 2022, the average data breach costs $4.35 million. The important thing to realize is that the cost is not just monetary. There is the time spent restoring data and systems, as well as time spent restoring customers’ confidence in their online purchases. There are various types of security breaches. Below are examples of data breaches.

Types of Data Breaches

It is important to recognize the different types of data breaches to better protect your company and your company’s data. Below are the different types of security breaches:

• Ransomware
• Business Email Compromise
• Stolen Information
• Phishing
• Password Guessing
• Distributed Denial of Services
• Malware
• Keystroke Loggers

Ransomware

This type of malware makes files on devices, servers, laptops, and workstations unusable. The threat actors then demand some form of ransom to release the files and make them accessible again.

Business Email Compromise

This type of attack uses phishing emails to impersonate someone important to the company. It typically involves trying to convince employees to wire money or data to a specific place. They might attempt to impersonate the CEO and ask employees to help. The FBI reported in 2021 that this type of attack resulted in 19,954 complaints resulting in a loss of $2.4 billion.

Stolen Information

It occurs when hackers steal confidential data from a company. This is done through physical means rather than through a computer network. They steal a laptop or hard drive from the company’s property.

Phishing

Statistics show that over 91% of all cyberattacks start with a phishing email sent to an unsuspecting victim. These emails always appear to come from a trusted source. With phishing, there are three things they are trying to do:

• Convince recipients to click on a malicious link which can infect their computer with other malware
• Convince recipients to visit a website and enter their real credentials
• Impersonating someone the recipient trusts and trying to trick them into sending money or confidential information

Distributed Denial of Service

While there are many types of security breaches, this one strikes at a specific server by flooding it with so much traffic that it crashes. This results in customers and employees alike being unable to access the server.

Malware

This is a malicious software which seeks to control specific computer devices.

Keystroke Loggers

These record every keystroke so hackers can get access to passwords and confidential information.

If you have questions about any of these data breaches, please reach out to Pathway Communications today for more detailed information.