System Attacks

System Attacks

1. Malware

   • Definition: software written to infect computers and commit crimes such as identity fraud.
     • Effects of Malware: can cause a computer to slow down or crash without reason, can delete files or corrupt and encrypt files, malware can also track the keys you press, therefore obtaining passwords. The hacker can then use this information to obtain passwords to accounts such as email and bank accounts.
       • Prevention: Back up files regularly, update OS often and use strong security software.

2. Phishing

   • Definition: Phishing is designed to lure you into giving away by using trusted institutions such as your bank. For example they may ask you to email your bank details if they have been "lost" or "misplaced".
     • Effects: accessing a victims account to make withdrawals of money and the ability to open bank account and cash illigitemate cheques.
       • Prevention: Never give away personal information as a legitimate bank should never ask for it over email.

3. Brute Force Attack

   • Definition: Brute force attackers use trial and error to force their way into an account. THey may use systematic ways of guessing a password until they gain access to your accounts.
     • Effects: Too many failed attempts at a password on your device can allow you to be locked out of your device. A correct entry of your password will allow them to access accounts such as bank accounts and online payment accounts such as PayPal.
       • Prevention: Use a secure password that is not obvious or personal to you, e.g. a pet's name or date of birth. Use a variety of capitals, lower case, special charcters, numbers and symbols to increase security and decrease the chance of an attacker guessing your password.

4. Denial of Service Attack