As the world deals with the Covid pandemic, a new threat has arisen in the form of cybercrime. Cyber attacks are on the rise, and businesses and individuals are increasingly vulnerable to them.
According to the U.N. disarmament chief, 600% increase in Cybercrime due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the world moves toward increased technological innovation as a result of covid-19 pandemic, reported by Apnews.
Furthermore, in 2021 the US alone, 1,862 data breaches case were reported that was a 68.05% increase from the previous year 2020.
With that in mind, let’s explore the various types of cyber attacks, their increasing prevalence during the pandemic, their effects on both businesses and individuals, and what happens in a cyber pandemic.
Here are some key Cyber Crime Increase Statistics
- Cybercrime increased to 600% percent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 1,862 data breaches case were reported IN 2021
- 68.05% increase in cybercrime from 2020 to 2021.
- 43% of cyber attacks are aimed at small businesses.
What are cybercrime and what types?
Cybercrime is a crime that is committed using a computer or a network, including the Internet. Some of the most common cybercrimes are:
Hacking: The act of illegally accessing a computer or network to steal information, or damage or shut down the system.
Phishing: The act of sending fraudulent emails to obtain personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.
Viruses and malware: Programs or files that are designed to damage or disable computers and networks.
How cyber attacks are increasing during the Covid pandemic
The Covid pandemic is increasing cyber attacks for a few reasons. First, many people are now working remotely, and this has led to an increase in the number of unsecured devices being connected to corporate networks.
Second, hackers are taking advantage of the fact that many companies are now focused on Covid-related issues and may not be as vigilant about security as they normally would be.
And finally, cybercriminals see the Covid pandemic as an opportunity to exploit people’s fears and anxieties to steal their data or money.
The effects of cybercrime on businesses and individuals
Cybercrime can have a serious impact on businesses and individuals. For businesses, cybercrime can result in the loss of money, confidential information, or damage to the company’s reputation. For individuals, cybercrime can result in the theft of money or personal information, identity theft, or fraud.
Some common forms of cybercrime include hacking, ransomware, and phishing.
Hacking occurs when a hacker breaks into a computer system and gains unauthorized access to information or control of the system.
Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to an infected computer system until a ransom is paid.
Phishing is a type of scam in which an attacker sends bogus emails or text messages to victims in order to steal personal information.
The future of cybersecurity
The future of cybersecurity is constantly evolving as new technologies are developed and more sophisticated methods of attack are discovered. However, some key areas of focus for the future include:
- Developing more sophisticated and effective security measures that can protect against ever-evolving attacks
- Educating users on best practices for online safety and security
- Enhancing collaboration between public and private sector organizations to better share information and respond to threats
- Investing in research and development to create new technologies that can help mitigate cybersecurity risks.
As seen by the rising number of cybercrime data, it is more necessary than ever to be aware of the many sorts of cyber attacks and how to protect oneself from them.
In addition, businesses need to be especially vigilant about security during the Covid pandemic, as hackers are taking advantage of the fact that many companies are now focused on Covid-related issues. Finally, we must continue to invest in research and development in order to develop new technologies that can aid in the reduction of cybersecurity threats.
