What forms of cybercrime are there?

Cybercrime is a form of digital crime in which Internet criminals break into an organization's computer, phone or entire network, for example. The impact of this form of crime is significant. Cyber insurance insures you against the consequences of incidents related to digital processes.

Internet criminals come in different shapes and sizes. They can be individuals, organizations, activists or even state-based groups. These people may have different motives. For example, they often use the Internet to protest, mobilize people or extort or blackmail people/companies. The goal is usually to make money.

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Different forms of cybercrime

Cybercrime can take several forms. That is, criminals can attack your business online in multiple ways. Below is an overview of the common variants with a brief explanation.

Phishing

This form of cybercrime is becoming increasingly common. It involves an email or website asking for your personal information. This email is supposedly sent by your bank or other company. Never just give out personal information, such as your PIN or passwords. If you do not trust the e-mail, always contact the company that allegedly sent you the e-mail. Never just click on a link in such an e-mail.

Ddos attack

A Ddos attack is an attack where the server is overloaded with the aim of making your website unusable.

Cyberstalking

This word actually says it all. This form of cybercrime involves systematic harassment, mostly of individuals, through digital channels.

Cyber extortion

Data extortion is really nothing more or less than extorting a person or organization. You won't regain access to your data until you pay the criminals money. With "ransomware," files on your computer are locked. To regain access to the data, a ransom must be paid.

Password cracking

In this process, criminals figure out your passwords and then break into your computer, phone or network. So it is important to choose good passwords that consist of upper and lower case letters, numbers and punctuation. Do not use the same password for every website. Should criminals manage to figure out your password, they will gain instant access to all your accounts.

Malware

Criminals infect your computer with malware. Malware is the collective name for malicious software. It allows them to access your computer and lock your files. A well-known form of malware is a virus.

Identity fraud

This type of fraud occurs to both companies and individuals. It involves using your identity or company information to order products or services. These false identities are also used to carry out illegal activities.