5 Cybersecurity Threats You Need to Watch Out for in 2019

As we move through 2019, the threat of cyberattacks continues to grow. If your business hasn’t yet assessed the potential risks, now is the time to take action. Reflecting on the threats from 2018 helps us better understand what might be on the horizon this year. Cybercriminals thrive on fear, and their methods are becoming more sophisticated. Here are five alarming cybersecurity trends you should be aware of.

1. Sextortion Emails

A new wave of email phishing scams has emerged, with attackers threatening to release compromising webcam footage unless a ransom is paid. These emails often start by referencing the victim’s password and claim that their system has been hacked. The attacker threatens to send a recorded video of the victim engaged in inappropriate activities to their entire contact list unless they pay a ransom in Bitcoin. What makes these scams so convincing is that the attacker often uses the victim’s own email address in the “from” field to make the email appear more legitimate. While these threats are largely based on previously leaked passwords, they can still be quite disturbing. In some cases, attackers have earned up to $50,000 a week from this scheme.

2. Webcam Hacking

This threat, while similar to sextortion, is far more invasive. Hackers are now targeting security cameras and other IoT (Internet of Things) devices, using them to spy on individuals. One high-profile case involved a family in Texas who heard disturbing noises coming from their baby’s room. Upon investigating, they discovered that a hacker had gained access to their cloud-connected baby monitor and was threatening them. While this is an extreme example, many similar reports highlight how vulnerable smart devices can be. As more households and businesses adopt IoT technology, the risk of hackers exploiting these devices grows.

3. Phishing and “Hitman for Hire” Scams

Phishing attacks continue to evolve, and one particularly frightening variation involves an email claiming that the recipient’s name is on a hitman-for-hire website. The attacker demands $4,000 to remove the person from the list, threatening dire consequences if the payment isn’t made within a set timeframe. Although this specific scam hasn’t resulted in any verified payments, it plays on people’s fear, which is a powerful tool for cybercriminals. It’s worth noting that real dark web hitman-for-hire sites do exist, adding an element of truth to these terrifying emails.

4. Attacks via Our Own Devices

In 2018, IoT devices were responsible for a massive surge in Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, which saw a 500% increase over the year. These devices, which are often not well-secured, can be easily hijacked and turned into bots for cyberattacks. Once a single device is compromised, the attacker can use it to launch attacks on other devices, often without detection. The sheer number of IoT devices in use today makes them an attractive target for attackers looking to build botnets and amplify their attacks.

5. Supply Chain Attacks

One of the most dangerous types of cyberattacks involves exploiting vulnerabilities in a company’s supply chain. These attacks occur when hackers target external vendors or partners that have access to a company’s systems. Often, these breaches are facilitated through compromised software or even hardware like infected chips in servers. In fact, 56% of organizations report that breaches in 2018 were caused by third-party vendors. As businesses become more reliant on external providers, the risk of a supply chain attack grows.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of the Threats

As cyberattacks continue to grow in sophistication, it’s essential for businesses and individuals alike to stay vigilant. With phishing scams becoming more convincing and IoT devices increasingly targeted, ensuring robust security measures and staying aware of these threats is more important than ever. By updating your cybersecurity practices and staying proactive, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these alarming trends.