Cybersecurity in 2024 is a dynamic and complex field, with evolving types of cyber attacks that showcase alarming sophistication and affect businesses in New Zealand. Cybercriminals are continually innovating, finding ways to inject malicious code, launch brute force attacks, and exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access. These advanced threats, aimed at stealing sensitive data, disrupt operations, causing significant financial and reputational damage. Among the most prevalent are malware attacks, phishing attacks, and SQL injection attacks, each representing a unique challenge to both personal and organisational security.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Cyber Attack?
2. Types of Cyber Attacks in 2024
3. Additional Types of Hacking Attacks
4. How to Prevent Cyber Attacks in 2024?
5. Evolution of Cyber Security
6. Conclusion

With the advent of 2024, there has been an uptick in varied and complex cyber attacks. Spear phishing attacks, DDoS attacks, and insider threats have become increasingly common, targeting specific systems either to steal data or incapacitate essential services. Additionally, MITM attacks and supply chain attacks have emerged as sophisticated threats, exploiting the interconnected nature of modern systems, from operating systems to the broader software supply chain, posing severe risks to sensitive information.

Adapting to these evolving threats necessitates a robust defence strategy. It's crucial to protect against not only known threats like malware attacks and phishing attacks but also to anticipate new forms of cyber attacks. Organisations must develop comprehensive security measures that can adapt to these changes, including deploying threat intelligence data, strengthening security teams, and employing advanced social engineering techniques. Such proactive measures are essential in safeguarding against potential loss of confidential data, preventing data breaches, and maintaining the integrity of computer networks.

What is a Cyber Attack?

Types of Cyber Attacks in 2024

Malware Attacks

Malware attacks involve the use of various harmful software variants like viruses, worms, spyware, and ransomware to damage or gain unauthorised access to a system. A notable example of a malware attack was the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017, which affected hundreds of thousands of computers worldwide, encrypting data and demanding ransom payments. To prevent such attacks, it's crucial to use reputable antivirus software like Avast, Norton, or McAfee, employ robust firewalls, and exercise caution when dealing with suspicious links and downloads. Regular software updates and vigilant monitoring of systems also play a vital role in prevention.

Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are a common form of social engineering where attackers impersonate trustworthy entities to trick victims into divulging sensitive information. A well-known example was the 2016 phishing attack on the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in the United States, leading to a significant data breach. Prevention strategies include scrutinising emails for authenticity, using anti-phishing toolbars, and regularly updating passwords. Educating users about the signs of phishing attempts and establishing robust verification processes can greatly reduce the risk of such attacks.

Password Attacks

Password attacks, including brute force, dictionary attacks, and keyloggers, are focused on cracking or stealing passwords to gain unauthorised access to systems. The 2013 Adobe breach, where millions of user passwords were compromised, is a stark example of the consequences of weak password security. To combat these attacks, the use of strong, complex passwords is recommended, along with avoiding password reuse across different services, regularly updating passwords, and eliminating obvious password hints. Implementing multi-factor authentication can also significantly enhance password security.

Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

MITM attacks occur when an attacker intercepts and possibly alters communication between two parties without their knowledge. A real-world example is the attack on a public Wi-Fi network, where attackers can intercept data transferred over the network. Preventing such attacks involves ensuring website security, avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, and using strong encryption methods. Additionally, the use of VPNs and SSL/TLS protocols can provide an added layer of security.

SQL Injection Attacks

SQL injection attacks exploit vulnerabilities in database-driven websites by manipulating SQL queries. An infamous instance is the 2019 attack on a major financial institution, where attackers stole the personal data of millions of customers. Prevention involves implementing intrusion detection systems, validating user-supplied data, and using prepared statements in database queries. Regularly updating and patching database management systems can also prevent such vulnerabilities.

Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks

DoS and DDoS attacks aim to make a network or service unavailable to its intended users by overwhelming it with traffic. A notable example is the 2016 DDoS attack on the DNS provider Dyn, which disrupted internet platforms and services. Prevention strategies include running traffic analysis, recognising warning signs, having an incident response plan in place, and considering cloud-based DDoS prevention services. Additionally, having redundant network resources can help mitigate the impact of such attacks.

Insider Threats

Insider threats arise from individuals within an organisation who misuse their access to harm the organisation. A classic example is the case of a disgruntled employee at a major corporation who leaked confidential data. Preventing insider threats involves promoting security awareness, limiting access to critical IT resources, and training employees to recognise and report suspicious activities. Conducting regular audits and monitoring user activities can also be effective in identifying potential insider threats.

Cryptojacking

Cryptojacking is the unauthorised use of someone else's computer resources to mine cryptocurrency. A significant case involved a popular website where hackers embedded a crypto-mining script, unbeknownst to visitors. To prevent cryptojacking, it's important to regularly update software, provide awareness training to employees, and install ad blockers. Monitoring for unusual system resource usage can also help in detecting cryptojacking attempts.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits take advantage of unpatched software vulnerabilities. The 2017 Equifax data breach, exploiting a zero-day vulnerability in website software, led to the exposure of sensitive data of over 140 million people. Prevention strategies include establishing effective patch management processes and creating comprehensive incident response plans. Staying informed about new vulnerabilities and promptly applying security patches are crucial steps in mitigating these risks.

Watering Hole Attacks

In watering hole attacks, attackers compromise popular websites to infect the devices of targeted groups. An example is the compromise of a widely-used software developer's website, leading to the distribution of malware. Regular software updates, employing network security tools, and using VPNs to conceal online activities are effective prevention strategies. Educating users about safe browsing habits and the risks of downloading software from unverified sources is also important.

Additional Types of Hacking Attacks

• Spoofing: Spoofing attacks involve cybercriminals impersonating trusted entities, such as well-known companies or contacts, to mislead victims and gain access to sensitive information. This can be done through email spoofing, caller ID spoofing, or creating fake websites that appear legitimate.


• Identity-Based Attacks: In identity-based attacks, cybercriminals focus on stealing, manipulating, or exploiting personal information. This can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorised access to secure systems. They often gather this information through social engineering or data breaches.


• Code Injection Attacks: Code injection attacks occur when attackers insert malicious code into software or web applications, typically through input fields. This allows them to manipulate the functioning of the software, steal data, or even gain control over the system.


• Supply Chain Attacks: Supply chain attacks target vulnerabilities in the software or hardware supply chains. Attackers might compromise a third-party service or software update process, allowing them to infiltrate multiple systems that trust and use the compromised component.


• DNS Tunneling: DNS tunnelling uses Domain Name System queries to communicate non-DNS traffic over port 53, bypassing security measures that don't inspect DNS traffic. This technique is often used for data exfiltration or command and control of malware.


• DNS Spoofing: DNS spoofing involves altering DNS records to redirect users to fraudulent websites. This can be used to steal login credentials, distribute malware, or conduct phishing attacks. Attackers might poison a DNS cache or compromise a DNS server to achieve this.


• IoT-Based Attacks: IoT-based attacks exploit vulnerabilities in Internet of Things devices like unsecured cameras, smart thermostats, and wearables. These devices, often lacking robust security, can be used to gain network access, conduct surveillance, or as part of a botnet for larger attacks.


• Ransomware: Ransomware attacks involve encrypting a victim's data and demanding payment for its decryption. These attacks often target businesses, healthcare institutions, or government agencies, causing operational disruptions and demanding large ransoms for the restoration of data.


• DDoS Attacks: Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks flood a target, such as a website or online service, with overwhelming traffic, rendering it unavailable. Typically, these attacks utilise botnets, which are networks of compromised computers, to amplify the traffic volume.


• Spamming: Spamming involves sending bulk unsolicited emails, which can include phishing scams, advertisements, or malware distribution. These emails are sent to a large number of recipients and can congest networks, exploit vulnerabilities, or trick users into revealing sensitive information.


• Corporate Account Takeover: Corporate account takeover attacks use stolen login credentials to access and exploit a company's financial or confidential resources. This can lead to significant financial losses, data breaches, and can also be used for further attacks within the organisation.


• ATM Cash Out: In ATM cash out attacks, hackers gain access to a bank's network and manipulate ATM controls, causing machines to dispense large amounts of cash. These coordinated attacks can result in significant financial losses for financial institutions.


• Whale-Phishing Attacks: Whale-phishing attacks are a form of highly targeted phishing that focuses on high-profile individuals like executives or celebrities. These attacks use personalised information, often gathered through careful research, to appear credible and trick victims into revealing their personal data or transferring funds.


• Spear-Phishing Attacks: Spear-phishing attacks are targeted phishing attempts directed at specific individuals or groups within an organisation. Unlike broad phishing campaigns, spear-phishing uses detailed, personalised information to gain the trust of the victim and achieve a higher success rate.


• URL Interpretation: URL interpretation attacks exploit the way web browsers process URLs. Attackers craft malicious URLs that appear legitimate or use vulnerabilities in website code to redirect users to harmful sites, where they might be tricked into downloading malware or revealing personal information.


• Session Hijacking: Session hijacking involves capturing a user's session token, which allows attackers to take over their web application sessions. This can enable unauthorised access to user accounts, personal information, and the ability to perform actions as the compromised user.


• Brute Force Attack: Brute force attacks involve systematically trying numerous password combinations to gain unauthorised entry to a system. These attacks often use automated software to generate a large number of guesses and are particularly effective against weak or common passwords.

How to prevent malicious code Cyber Attacks in 2024?

Evolution of Cyber Security

Conclusion