Phishing Attacks Phishing is a prevalent cyber threat where attackers trick individuals into divulging sensitive information by posing as trustworthy entities. They often use emails or messages that appear legitimate but contain malicious links or attachments. Victims are lured into clicking these links, leading to the theft of personal data such as passwords, credit card numbers, and social security numbers.

Malware Malware, short for malicious software, includes viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware. It infiltrates devices to steal data, damage systems, or spy on user activities. Ransomware is particularly dangerous as it encrypts files, demanding a ransom for their release. Regular updates and antivirus software are essential defenses against malware.

Social Engineering Social engineering exploits human psychology to gain unauthorized access to information. Attackers manipulate individuals into breaking normal security procedures. For example, they may impersonate IT support to obtain login credentials. Vigilance and proper training are key to mitigating social engineering risks.

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks In MitM attacks, cybercriminals intercept communication between two parties to steal or alter data. This often occurs on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Using encrypted connections (HTTPS) and avoiding sensitive transactions on public networks can reduce the risk.

Password Attacks Password attacks involve cracking or guessing passwords to gain unauthorized access. Common methods include brute force, dictionary attacks, and credential stuffing. Strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication are vital to protect against such threats.

Being aware of these common cybersecurity threats and implementing robust security practices can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber attacks.