Cybercriminals frequently target all websites. Data theft, remote access, and malware distribution can all occur through social media platforms, online retailers, file-sharing services, and other types of online services. Hackers employ a variety of techniques to infiltrate websites, the top 5 types of attacks are discussed in this article.
1. Brute force attacks
Brute force attacks employ a trial-and-error method of cryptography to allow hackers to force their way into a website. Cryptography allows data to be stored safely, but it also involves the process of code-solving, which is what cybercriminals are interested in. A hacker can use cryptography to guess passwords, login credentials, and decryption keys. This technique can even be used to locate hidden web pages.
2. Keyloggers and Spyware
An attacker can use a keylogger to record all keystrokes made on an infected device or server. It is a type of monitoring software program that is widely used in data theft. For example, if someone enters their payment card information while a keylogger is active, the malicious operator will be able to spend money without the card owner's knowledge. In the case of websites, the attacker may be able to conceal the credentials required to log in and gain access by monitoring a website administrator with a keylogger. Keyloggers are a type of spyware, and spyware can take many forms, such as adware and Trojans.
3.Man-in-the-Middle Attacks
A malicious actor eavesdrops on private sessions in a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack. The attacker will place themselves between a user and an application in order to gain access to valuable data that they can exploit. Instead of simply eavesdropping, the attacker could pretend to be a legitimate party.
Because much of the intercepted data may be encrypted via an SSL or TLS connection, the attacker must find a way to break this connection in order for the data to be interpreted. If the malicious actor is successful in making this data readable, such as through SSL stripping, they can use it to hack websites, accounts, and applications, among other things.
4. Remote Code Execution
Remote Code Execution (RCE) is a fairly self-explanatory term. It entails the execution of malicious computer code from a remote location through a security flaw. Remote code execution can take place over a local network or the internet. This enables the attacker to gain physical access to the targeted device and infiltrate it.
An attacker can steal sensitive data and perform unauthorized functions on a victim's computer by exploiting an RCE vulnerability. Because this type of attack can have serious consequences, RCE vulnerabilities are (or should be) taken very seriously.
5. Third-Party Exploits
Thousands of businesses around the world rely on third-party vendors, particularly in the digital realm. Many applications act as third-party service providers for online businesses, whether they process payments, authenticate logins, or provide security tools. However, third-party vendors can be used to gain access to their client's websites.
Attackers can take advantage of a security vulnerability, such as a bug, in a third-party vendor. Some third-party applications and services have lax security measures, making them vulnerable to hackers. This exposes sensitive data from a website to the attacker for retrieval. Even if the website has advanced security features, the use of third-party vendors can be a weakness.
Unfortunately, even when we use the proper security measures, websites and accounts are still vulnerable to attacks. As cybercriminals improve their methods, it becomes more difficult to detect red flags and stop an attack in its tracks. However, it is critical to be aware of the tactics used by cybercriminals and to employ the proper security practices to protect yourself as much as possible.
