Security threats in Computer Network
Potential risks that might compromise the availability, confidentiality, or integrity of data and systems are known as security threats in computer networks. These dangers may come from hostile attacks, software flaws, or human error, among other internal and external sources. Malware, phishing, distributed denial of service (DDoS) assaults, and illegal access are examples of common threat kinds.
These dangers may lead to system failures, data breaches, and monetary losses. They frequently take advantage of holes in software, user behavior, or network setups. The complexity and nature of these threats change along with technology and hacking methods. Threat detection, prevention, and reaction tactics must be used in tandem for effective management. Maintaining seamless corporate operations and safeguarding sensitive data require network security.
Types of Security threats in Computer Network
- Malware
- Fishing Attack
- SQL Injection
- MAN-in-the-middle (MitM)
- Denial of Service (DOS)
- Insider Threats
- DNS Spoofing
- Zero-Day Exploits
1. Malware
Malware is harmful software that enters and damages devices, networks, and computer systems. With several kinds including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware that can harm systems, steal data, or interfere with regular operations, it is a serious danger to computer network security. Protecting computer networks requires an understanding of these dangers and the implementation of strong security solutions.
Malware is capable of:
- Corrupt or remove data.
- Keep an eye on user behavior.
- Demand a ransom to unlock data that has been encrypted (ransomware).
- Give attackers unapproved access.
2. Fishing Attack
Another kind of cyberattack is phishing. The word "phish" (fish) is the source of the term "phishing." Placing bait in order to trap fish is a widespread practice. Phishing operates in a similar way. It is an unethical method of tricking the victim or user into clicking on dangerous websites.
The malicious website is created by the attacker so that the victim believes it to be legitimate and falls for it. Sending spam emails that look real in order to steal the victim's credentials is the most popular kind of phishing.
Fishing is capable of:
- Stealing Sensitive Information
- Installing Malware
- Impersonating Legitimate Entities
- Compromising Accounts
3. SQL Injection
SQL injection, sometimes referred to as SQLI, is a popular attack vector that manipulates backend databases using malicious SQL code to access data that was not meant to be shown. Any number of things, such as user lists, private customer information, or confidential company data, may be included in this data. SQL injection can have a profound effect on a company.
A successful attack may lead to the removal of entire tables, the unapproved viewing of user lists, and, in some situations, the acquisition of administrator powers to a database—all of which would be extremely harmful to a company.
SQL Injection is capable of:
- Accessing Unauthorized Data
- Deleting Data
- Bypassing Authentication
- Executive Administrative
4. MAN-in-the-middle (MitM)
An attack known as a "man in the middle" (MITM) occurs when a hacker inserts himself into a discussion between a user and an application, either to listen in or to pretend to be one of the parties, giving the impression that a legitimate information exchange is taking place.
An attack aims to steal personal data, including credit card numbers, account information, and login credentials. Users of financial apps, SaaS companies, e-commerce websites, and other websites that require login are usually the targets.
MAN-in-the-middle (MitM) is capable of:
- Intercepting Communication
- Stealing Sensitive Information
- Altering Data in Transmit
- Impersonating Legitimate Parties
5. Denial of Service (DOS)
A denial of service (DoS) attack is a cyberattack that targets a specific computer or website with the goal of preventing its intended users from accessing it. By preventing users from accessing the network, they aim to interfere with an organization's network activities. In order to overwhelm systems and stop some or all valid requests from being fulfilled, denial of service is usually achieved by bombarding the targeted computer or resource with excessive requests.
DoS attacks take use of a number of flaws in computer network systems. Servers, network routers, or network communication lines could be their targets. They may cause links to bog down and computers and routers to crash. The Ping of Death is the most well-known denial-of-service tactic.
Denial of Service (DOS) capable of:
- Overloading a Server
- Distributing Services
- Damaging Business Operations
- Exploiting System Vulnerabilities
6. Insider Threats
A cyberattack that comes from someone who works for a company or has permission to access its networks or systems is known as an insider threat. Intentional, inadvertent, or malevolent insider threats might come from current or former staff members, consultants, board members, or business partners.
Insider Threats are capable of:
- Leaking Confidential Information
- Sabotaging Systems
- Bypassing Security Controls
- Assisting External Attackers
7. DNS Spoofing
DNS spoofing is when a DNS server returns an incorrect IP address or record for the requested website. After discovering the DNS system's weaknesses, attackers seize control and reroute users to a hostile website. In order to reroute people to harmful websites rather than the intended, lawful ones, DNS (Domain Name System) records must be manipulated. Numerous assaults, including as phishing, virus distribution, and sensitive data theft, may result from this.
DNS Spoofing capable of:
- Translating Domain Names to IP Addresses
- Routing Internet Traffic
- Improving Network Efficiency
- Enabling Load Balancing
8. Zero-Day Exploits
A zero-day (0day) exploit is a cyberattack that targets a software flaw that neither antivirus nor software makers are aware of. The attacker swiftly develops an exploit and launches an attack after identifying the software flaw before any interested parties have a chance to fix it. The lack of protection makes such attacks very likely to be successful. Zero-day attacks are therefore a serious security risk.
Zero-Day Exploits capable of:
- Bypassing Security Defenses
- Gaining Unauthorized Access
- Launching Targeted Attacks
- Spreading Malware
