Computer security threats are relentlessly inventive. Masters of disguise and manipulation, these threats constantly evolve to find new ways to annoy, steal and harm. Arm yourself with information and resources to safeguard against complex and growing computer security threats and stay safe online.
Examples of Online Cybersecurity Threats
Perhaps the most well-known computer security threat, a computer virus is a program written to alter the way a computer operates, without the permission or knowledge of the user. A virus replicates and executes itself, usually doing damage to your computer in the process.
Carefully evaluating free software, downloads from peer-to-peer file sharing sites, and emails from unknown senders are crucial to avoiding viruses. Most web browsers today have security settings which can be ramped up for optimum defense against online threats. But, as we'll say again and again in this post, the single most-effective way of fending off viruses is up-to-date antivirus software from a reputable provider like WebrootTM.
Learn more about how to combat computer virus threats and stay safe online.
Let us help you find the best antivirus for your needs
Easily compare our antivirus products and find customized protection for every device and every budget. We have options to help you protect one or all of your laptops, desktops and mobile devices.
Take our short quiz to discover the ideal plan for safeguarding your devices, privacy, and identity — whether it's for you or your entire family.
A serious computer security threat, spyware is any program that monitors your online activities or installs programs without your consent for profit or to capture personal information. We’ve amassed a wealth of knowledge that will help you combat spyware threats and stay safe online.
While many users won't want to hear it, reading terms and conditions is a good way to build an understanding of how your activity is tracked online. And of course, if a company you don't recognize is advertising for a deal that seems too good to be true, be sure you have an internet security solution in place and click with caution.
We’ve amassed a wealth of knowledge that will help you combat spyware threats- learn more about the dangers of spyware and stay safer online
People, not computers, create computer security threats and malware. Hackers and predators are programmers who victimize others for their own gain by breaking into computer systems to steal, change, or destroy information as a form of cyber-terrorism.These online predators can compromise credit card information, lock you out of your data, and steal your identity. As you may have guessed, online security tools with identity theft protection are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from this brand of cybercriminal.
What scams are hackers using lately? Download the latest OpenText Threat Perspective to help protect yourself against dangerous malware attacks online.
Masquerading as a trustworthy person or business, phishers attempt to steal sensitive financial or personal information through fraudulent email or instant messages. Phishing attacks are some of the most successful methods for cybercriminals looking to pull off a data breach. Antivirus solutions with identity theft protection can be "taught" to recognize phishing threats in fractions of a second.
How can you tell the difference between a legitimate message and a phishing scam? Educate yourself on the latest tricks and scams.
FAQs
Cyber threats can be classified into four main categories: malware attacks, social engineering, unauthorized access, and malicious software. These categories encompass a wide range of potential threats that can compromise an organization's cybersecurity.
What are the four 4 types of security threats? ›
Cyber threats can be classified into four main categories: malware attacks, social engineering, unauthorized access, and malicious software. These categories encompass a wide range of potential threats that can compromise an organization's cybersecurity.
What are the 5 types of computer security? ›
The Different Types of Cybersecurity
- Network Security. Most attacks occur over the network, and network security solutions are designed to identify and block these attacks. ...
- Cloud Security. ...
- Endpoint Security. ...
- Mobile Security. ...
- IoT Security. ...
- Application Security. ...
- Zero Trust.
Types of Cyber Attacks
- Malware Attack. This is one of the most common types of cyberattacks. ...
- Phishing Attack. Phishing attacks are one of the most prominent widespread types of cyberattacks. ...
- Password Attack. ...
- Man-in-the-Middle Attack. ...
- SQL Injection Attack. ...
- Denial-of-Service Attack. ...
- Insider Threat. ...
- Cryptojacking.
What are the 3 threats to information security? Typically, we segment threats to information security into three primary categories: malware, phishing, and internal threats.
What are the 4 main types of security vulnerability? ›
What are the 4 major types of security vulnerability?
- Process (or procedural) vulnerabilities.
- Operating system vulnerabilities.
- Network vulnerabilities.
- Human vulnerabilities.
Although threatened and vulnerable may be used interchangeably when discussing IUCN categories, the term threatened is generally used to refer to the three categories (critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable), while vulnerable is used to refer to the least at risk of those three categories.
What are the 4 pillars of computer security? ›
Security awareness revolves around understanding and adherence to various security practices and policies to safeguard against threats. This concept is built upon four essential pillars: Security reminders, protection from malicious software, log-in monitoring, and password management.
What are the most 4 common types of computer security risks? ›
Malware. Ransomware. Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. Spam and Phishing.
What are the 8 main cyber security threats? ›
Inside the Top Cyber Threats
- Ransomware. Ransomware is malware designed to use encryption to force the target of the attack to pay a ransom demand. ...
- Malware. ...
- Fileless Attacks. ...
- Phishing. ...
- Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack. ...
- Malicious Apps. ...
- Denial of Service Attack. ...
- Zero-Day Exploit.
Ten types of cybersecurity
- Application security. Application security prevents unauthorized access and use of applications and connected data. ...
- Cloud security. ...
- Critical infrastructure security. ...
- Data security. ...
- Endpoint security. ...
- IoT (Internet of Things) security. ...
- Mobile security. ...
- Network security.
Threats can be grouped in three categories: natural threats, technological threats, and human-caused threats. Threats are typically categorized into three types: natural, technological, or human caused.
What are the three types of computer threats? ›
Types of Computer Security Threats and How to Avoid Them
- Computer Viruses. Perhaps the most well-known computer security threat, a computer virus is a program written to alter the way a computer operates, without the permission or knowledge of the user. ...
- Spyware Threats. ...
- Hackers and Predators. ...
- Phishing.
- Malware. Malware attack. Malware is the name given to hostile or dangerous elements that usually breach a network through vulnerability. ...
- Phishing. Phishing attack. This type of attack usually occurs over emails and targets personal information. ...
- Drive-by. Drive-by attack. ...
- Password. Password attack.
The 4 C's security refers to a framework comprising four essential elements: Concealment, Control, Communication, and Continuity. These elements collectively contribute to fortifying security measures and safeguarding assets, premises, and individuals against potential threats and risks.
What are the 4 P's in security? ›
In conclusion, the 4 P's in security—prevention, protection, preparedness, and partnership—form the bedrock of Echelon Protective Services' holistic approach to security. By adhering to these principles and integrating them into its operations, Echelon exemplifies excellence in the realm of security services.
What are the four threat levels? ›
Threat levels
- low - an attack is highly unlikely.
- moderate - an attack is possible but not likely.
- substantial - an attack is likely.
- severe - an attack is highly likely.
- critical - an attack is highly likely in the near future.
