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21 August 2024

Common Cyber Attacks and Their Causes

Before delving deeper into cybercrime and its causes, it's important to first understand the definition of a cyber attack. Cyber attacks, also known as cyber crimes, are criminal activities that utilize electronic devices and internet connections, capable of crossing national boundaries within a short and unrestricted period. Cybercrime cases are frequent in Indonesia, ranging from the most common identity fraud to threats of debt collection that never actually occurred. These various cybercrimes are often perpetrated through social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and others. Here are some factors that easily facilitate cybercrime activities:


1. System Security

Vulnerabilities Cybercrime often occurs due to vulnerabilities or loopholes in security systems that are overlooked but happen frequently. Additionally, not everyone prioritizes security. Many people neglect security systems and fail to update them regularly, which is crucial. If software or operating systems are not updated periodically, specific security weaknesses can be exploited by cybercriminals. As a result, cybercrime becomes difficult to avoid and harmful to users.


2. Lack of Security Awareness

Even now, many people remain unaware and do not understand the dangers of the digital world, often considering it trivial. The lack of understanding and awareness regarding digital security practices can lead individuals or organizations to ignore basic security issues like regularly updating passwords. Frequently, individuals or organizations indiscriminately click on suspicious links without understanding the security risks. Individuals with such characteristics are usually more vulnerable to and become prime targets for cybercrime. This happens because, unknowingly, they facilitate cybercriminals in executing their actions, which can be highly detrimental in the future.


3. Technological Advancements

Technological advancements are rapidly progressing. While the benefits of technological advancements are significant, they also present a downside. Despite providing numerous advantages, technological advancements can create opportunities for cybercriminals. Over time, developments in artificial intelligence and other technological advancements can be used to develop more sophisticated and harder-to-detect attacks, making people slow to realize they have been victims of cybercrime. Due to numerous vulnerabilities and the lack of corresponding technological developments to counteract these attacks, addressing these assaults becomes increasingly difficult, ultimately leading to the growth of cybercrime.


4. Human Exploitation (Social Engineering)

It is important to note that cybercriminals often use social engineering techniques to deceive and manipulate individuals or employees into unintentionally providing confidential information or accessing secure systems. The lack of awareness about social engineering techniques can make these attacks more successful and easier to carry out, resulting in many cybercrime victims.


5. Lack of Strict Penalties

Finally, the ease and prevalence of cybercrime are often due to weak enforcement of laws. For example, in Indonesia, there are specific articles addressing cybercrime. However, in practice, handling these cases is often inadequate and considered trivial. This weakness ultimately encourages cybercriminals to continue their attacks without fear of arrest or punishment due to the weak legal framework.


Now you know how easily cybercrime can strike. To prevent this from happening to your business, you should prepare protection for all your company's data. Strengthening password security, regularly updating software, and maintaining a secure internet connection are crucial steps to take.

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