The 5 Most Common Types of Cybercrime

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cybercrime

Cybercrime is on the rise and only getting worse as technology continues to evolve each day. With updated security systems, cybercriminals are forced to find new, creative ways to breach network security and obtain the information they desire. When it comes to your business security, you should be aware of the most common types of cybercrime so that you can create a solution to prevent them from occurring. Here are the five most common types of cybercrime in the U.S!

Phishing Attacks

With a phishing attack, hackers send malicious links and websites via email to try and lure victims in. These emails are set up to look professional and legitimate and appear to come from people and companies that you trust, but when you click the link, it asks for personal information. Some links don’t even require personal information. Instead, just clicking the link will allow a hacker to install malware onto your device. Phishing attacks are especially common in the business world, so if you come across an email you’re unsure about, verify that it is legitimate before you even open it. .

Online Credential Breach

Cybercriminals are always looking for a way to discover a user’s personal usernames and passwords so that they can access sensitive information. Today’s cybercriminals are mostly on the lookout for bank, credit card, and retailer account information. In 2018, about 1.4 billion passwords were leaked for hackers to use (2018 Credential Spill Report). Despite constant warnings, many people use the same passwords for all of their online platforms. This means that if a hacker finds credentials for one of your accounts, all of your accounts are now in jeopardy.

Credit Card Fraud

It is no secret that credit and debit card fraud is one of the most common types of cybercrime because this is where hackers obtain access to your finances. However, with the rise in online shopping, cyber fraud is on the rise, with no end in sight. Phishing emails can lead you to enter credit card information into a fake website, causing your card information to be hacked. Credit card fraud can also occur from using public Wi-fi or if a business’ internal payment system is hacked.

Malware

Malware is also referred to as malicious software, which is dangerous software that a hacker downloads onto your computer in order to obtain personal information. There are several different types of malware, some that remotely control your computer and others that allow hackers to steal personal documents and information. Ransomware is a type of malware that has rapidly increased in popularity over the last few years. With a ransomware attack, malicious software shuts down devices and networks until a ransom is paid.

Identity Theft

Identity theft has been around for a long time, but is becoming more common as computer networks and electronic data sharing becomes more prominent. Before technology was introduced, criminals used to steal mail or dig through one’s trash to try and find personal and financial information. Now, all they have to do is log onto a computer to hack into your personal information. Identity theft can have long term effects on your financial stability and the ability to make large purchases and open new accounts,

Contact J&P PC Solutions Today for Your Cybersecurity Needs!

J&P PC Solutions is Baltimore’s Premier IT Consulting and Managed Services Firm. J&P went independent in February of 2018 and specialize in providing customized IT support and service for all industries including data management, construction, mental health, and more.

 
   
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