10 most common cyber attacks: how to protect yourself from them?
Cybercriminals are constantly refining their malicious tactics, using increasingly sophisticated tools to extract valuable information and gain financial profit. In this article, we take a look at the 10 most common and dangerous types of cyber attacks and offer practical advice on how to protect your business.
Phishing
What is it? One of the most widespread forms of cyber attack. Criminals send emails or messages containing links or attachments, pretending to be trusted institutions or even company executives, in an attempt to steal passwords, payment data, or other sensitive information.
How to stay safe? Always check the sender’s email address, don’t rush to click links or open attachments, and if you have already done so, do not enter any additional information. Educate employees about cyber threats and their types, and regularly run phishing tests to check employees’ vigilance and caution.
Ransomware
What is it? This malicious software encrypts your data and demands a ransom to restore access. Even if you pay, there’s no guarantee your files will be recovered. These attacks can paralyse business operations and are among the most damaging.
How to stay safe? Back up data regularly, avoid opening suspicious files, and use reputable antivirus software that detects ransomware.
Malware
What is it? This category covers various viruses, trojans and spyware that can disrupt systems or steal data, which may later be used for ransom demands. Such programs often operate covertly and remain unnoticed for a long time.
How to stay safe? Keep all systems up to date and use strong antivirus protection. Limit employee permissions for installing software or opening files from unknown sources to prevent unauthorised access.
DDoS Attacks
What is it? DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack floods your website or data servers with traffic until systems crash or become inaccessible. These are commonly used to disrupt operations or as a form of blackmail.
How to stay safe? Use content delivery networks (Content Delivery Network, or CDN), DDoS protection services, and monitor unusual spikes in network traffic so you can respond quickly.
Social Engineering
What is it? Studies show that up to 90% of data breaches stem from human error. Cybercriminals exploit the lack of awareness and use psychological manipulation to extract sensitive information. Phishing, mentioned earlier, is one of the most common social engineering techniques.
How to stay safe? Run regular training sessions on manipulation tactics and set clear internal guidelines for sharing sensitive information. Always verify unusual requests through a second pair of eyes. Better safe than sorry!
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks
What is it? MitM is a type of cyberattack where a malicious actor secretly intercepts and potentially alters communication between two parties, typically a user and a website or application. The attacker essentially positions themselves in the middle of the communication, allowing them to eavesdrop on the conversation, steal sensitive information, or even manipulate the data being exchanged.
How to stay safe? Always use HTTPS protocols, connect via VPN when using public networks, and encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest.
Credential Stuffing
What is it? In this case, cybercriminals use lists of previously leaked login credentials, most likely obtained on the “black market”. One of the largest data leaks in history was recorded in 2025, when data from as many as 16 billion accounts was exposed, including Apple, Google and Facebook accounts.
How to stay safe? Do not use easily guessable passwords or the same password both at work and in your personal life, and when you hear about a data leak, change your password for peace of mind. We also recommend using two-factor authentication ( Two-Factor Authentication, or 2FA).
Zero-Day Attacks
What is it? These attacks target vulnerabilities that system developers don’t yet know about, often in the early stages of software, websites, or platforms. They can even affect systems that appear entirely up to date.
How to stay safe? Use advanced security solutions like EDR or SIEM, stay informed on cybersecurity news, and apply updates as soon as they become available. Network segmentation can also reduce potential damage.
SQL Injection
What is it? In this case, cybercriminals break into your database through website search fields or other data submission forms by injecting malicious SQL code. This gives them access to sensitive information and sometimes allows them to modify it.
How to stay safe? Use parameterised queries and web application firewalls (Web Application Firewall, or WAF). Regularly test your website forms for potential vulnerabilities.
SIM Swapping
What is it? This technique allows attackers to transfer your mobile number to another SIM card and gain access to accounts protected by SMS-based authentication, such as banking or email.
How to stay safe? Use authentication through mobile apps such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator instead of SMS. Contact your mobile operator to enable an additional level of protection for SIM changes.
As you have probably realised, there are plenty of types of cyber attacks and ways to deceive, rob or lure information out of you. Although not all attacks pose the same level of danger, you should protect yourself against all of them equally, because a single unsafe link or a poorly protected system can lead to painful consequences. Stay safe!
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