The Biggest Threat in the Digital World A Ground Report. Today, we live in an era where wars are fought not just on borders, but also in the invisible world of smartphones, computers, and the internet. This war is fought not with weapons, but with code, bots, malware, and network exploits. This is what we call a cyber attack.
In the last five years, the number of cyber attacks in India has increased by more than 400%. Whether it’s governments, companies, or ordinary people no one is safe from it. In this report, we’ll understand what a cyber attack is, how it works, its types, and how to protect ourselves from it.
What is a Cyber Attack?
When a hacker or cybercriminal attempts to infiltrate a
- Computer system
- Network
- Mobile phone
- Data
- Website
- Banking system
unauthorized and causes damage, steal data, or disrupt the system, it is called a cyber attack. Simply put a cyber attack is a digital attack that puts your data, money, or system at risk.
Why Do Hackers Launch Cyber Attacks?
According to cyber experts, there are four main reasons for this:
- To make money: Ransomware, banking fraud, phishing all are ways to make money.
- To steal data: Data is the new oil these days.
- To bring down systems: DDoS attacks on companies and government institutions do this.
- For political/espionage purposes: Cyber warfare and state sponsored attacks fall into this category.
How is a Cyber Attack Carried Out On You?
A cyber attack isn’t a single thing it’s a combination of several techniques. Hackers use these to penetrate systems without leaving a trace.
1. Malware Attack
These are harmful software such as:
- Virus
- Worm
- Trojan
- Spyware
- Ransomware
They penetrate systems and steal data or lock them down.
2. Phishing Attack
Stealing data from users, such as passwords, OTPs, and card details, through fake SMS, emails, WhatsApp, and websites.
3. Man in the Middle Attack
When you connect to public Wi-Fi, a hacker can observe everything between your phone and the internet.
4. DDoS Attack
Sending so much traffic to a website or server that it crashes.
5. SQL Injection
Stealing data by injecting code into a website’s database.
6. Zero Day Attack
Hackers launch an attack before the company can fix a new vulnerability in the system.
7. Password Cracking
Weak passwords can be cracked in seconds using tools. For example, 123456, 000000, 12345678.
8. Mobile & SIM Swap Attacks
Your OTP, UPI, and banking information are all in the hands of hackers.
The Dangerous Consequences of Cyberattacks | Who is Affected and How Much?
A cyber attack doesn’t just cause monetary losses, it directly threatens life, business, and national security.
Personal Losses
- Bank Accounts Emptied
- Mobile/Computer Hacked
- Personal Photos/Videos Leaked
- Identity Theft
Business Losses
- Data Theft Worth Crores
- Loss of Customers
- Website Down
- Blackmailing
National and Government
- Espionage Attack
- Power Grid/Defense Systems at Risk
- The Beginning of Cyber Warfare
How to Avoid Cyber Attack?
- Use Strong Passwords + 2FA: Weak passwords are the biggest cause of hacking. Keep a different password for each account.
- Don’t click on unknown links: This accounts for 80% of phishing.
- Don’t download fake apps or APKs: Always install apps from the Google Play Store or App Store.
- Limit public Wi-Fi: Use a VPN if necessary.
- Keep software and apps updated: Updates include patches to prevent hacking.
- Strengthen your social media privacy settings: Showing information to everyone can lead to identity theft.
- Use antivirus software and a firewall: These prevent malware and viruses.
- Don’t forget to keep backups: Ransomware can block all data.
What To Do If You Get Cyber Attacked?
- If you’ve been subjected to banking fraud,Immediately call your bank and “Report Fraud” in the UPI app.
- If your mobile or system has been hacked, Turn off your internet connection, Change your password and Scan your device.
- File a legal complaint: File an online report at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is your digital responsibility. Cyberattacks are the fastest-growing digital crime in the world today. But the good news is that 90% of cyberattacks can be prevented simply through awareness and caution. In the digital world, your security is in your hands. The more vigilant you are, the more vulnerable you are to hackers.
FAQ’s of Cyber Attack
Q1. What is a cyber attack?
Ans: When a hacker tries to steal data, cause damage, or take control of your mobile, computer, or online account, it is called a cyber attack.
Q2. What are the main types of cyber attacks?
Ans: The main types are phishing, malware, ransomware, social engineering, password hacking, and mobile hacking.
Q3. Why are cyber attacks increasing?
Ans: Cyber attacks are rapidly increasing due to increasing internet usage, weak passwords, poor digital habits, increased dependence on mobile phones, and the rising cost of data.
Q4. How can one protect against cyber attacks?
Ans: Keep strong passwords, use 2FA, avoid clicking on fake links, keep an updated mobile/laptop, and avoid public Wi-Fi.
Q5. Are mobile phones the most common targets of cyber attacks?
Ans: Yes, most attacks in India are on mobile users because people download unsafe apps and click on fake links.
Q6. What is a phishing attack?
Ans: It is a fraudulent attack that steals your banking information, such as passwords or OTPs, by sending fake emails, links, or messages.
Q7. What is ransomware?
Ans: It is a dangerous malware that locks your data and hackers demand a ransom in return.
Q8. Can antivirus prevent cyberattacks?
Ans: Antivirus can prevent many types of viruses, malware, and spyware, but awareness and digital hygiene are most important.
Q9. Can social media accounts be easily hacked?
Ans: Yes, if you use weak passwords, public Wi-Fi, or fake links, your account can be hacked within minutes.
Q10. Can a cyber attack be reported?
Ans: Yes, you can immediately file a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in or contact the nearest cyber police station.