A decade ago, cyber-attacks were perpetrated by viruses that not only corrupted files and destabilised computer systems but even damaged operating systems. However, today’s cyber attacks involve usage of malware.

This malware is quite powerful than classic viruses and is more capable of seizing control over databases. In fact, malwares have often locked computers with encryption methods strong enough to shake organisations to the core. Such malwares are known as ransomware.

Viruses today are becoming quite advanced as web development company in Riyadh and it is highly recommended to individuals, businesses and corporations alike that they all stay up to date with cyber-security trends and keep their cyber-security software up to date. Blogs and websites are just one step they can keep themselves up to date.

How costly are cyber-attacks?

In the United States, 3000 firms reported instances of security breaches resulting from cyber-attacks in 2013. Apart from small businesses, retail giants Target & Home Depot were among the corporations hurt by these attacks.

These attacks resulted in loss of customer data, credit card information stolen, accounts cleaned out in minutes, trade secrets stolen and then sold online, and intellectual property was stolen. Hackers often found their way into internal systems and held systems for ransom.

Cyber crimes (Cyber-attacks) cost the global economy around USD$ 400 billion each year, and as a consequence; governments & organisations around the globe (including the United States government) have made cyber-security a top priority among their list of priorities. They are also setting up standards for cyber security protocol.