10 Hacking Techniques Used By Cyber Criminals

Techniques Used By Cyber Criminals 

 

 1. DoS and DDoS Attacks

This method is one of the most common hacking techniques used by both novice and sophisticated hackers. In this hacking technique, the hacker loads the server with unnecessary traffic leading to Denial of Service (DoS) for authentic users.
The hacker may deploy DDoS attack by using artificial tools like dummy computers or bots to continue launching the server with fake requests to overload it. It leads to the attacked website or webpage unavailable for "real users."

2. Keylogging

Keylogging is a hacking technique where the malicious hacker deploys a software called keylogger on your system. This software records every keystroke and stores the information in a log file which the hacker can look into for sniffing sensitive information like your username and passwords for online accounts.

It is a dangerous hack that can cause identity theft and bank frauds.

3. Cookie Stealer

Cookies on your browser offer great ease with quick access to frequent sites. The main idea behind cookies is that they store your personal information including username, password and the site information you visit.
Once the hacker steals cookies from your browser, they can even authenticate themselves as you and log in to your online accounts like facebook, twitter, etc. Another noteworthy thing is how cookies theft has also become more comfortable.
With the sophisticated algorithms and software, a hacker can download the software, and within few clicks, they will have all your details in front of them.

4. Bait and Switch

An ancient and conventional technique used by the hackers is bait and switch. The hackers ask the user (victim) to download or run software or an app on their system that seems non-malicious, but there is inbuilt spam or malicious software.

In simple words, they may use free software as bait, and once you click, they'll switch you onto the malicious link that will put your data at risk.

5. IoT Attacks

Everyone is shifting towards an era where we are dependent on the Internet even for the minutest of things. All was good here until it became a vulnerable point of attack for hackers to snoop into your private info that is best kept hidden from prying eyes.
Nowadays, hackers are creating powerful virus and malware which they can inject into your smart TVs; Smart Watches and almost everything that you connect to the Internet including your home pods, refrigerators, and air-conditioners.
This is a powerful attack which can result in the loss of confidential data for all the family members in your home.

6. Fake Wireless Access Points (WAPs)

Don't you love the free Internet? Trust me, I do!

It's not safe. Hackers can use your favorite coffeehouse or public areas like Airports to create Fake WAPs where you might think you are getting connected to the public Wi-Fi provided by the place. However, you directly enter the devil's zone once you get connected.

The hacker can now snoop for all the information and data streams passing through your device and the remote server which includes critical passwords and God forbid, your financial details as well.

7. Phishing

Phishing is an ancient and obsolete hacking technique still in use as a sole method or in collaboration with other hacking ways to lure the user into sharing their sensitive information with the hacker. The hacker creates a replica of an existing online identity like your bank website or social media site.
They will then rename it as something which looks similar to the actual domain name. Once the user falls into the trap, their personal information including but not limited to personal information, financial details, social security number, etc. gets compromised.
The hacker can use this information for financial frauds or something even more dangerous like spoiling your online reputation.

8. ClickJacking or UI Redressing

A newfound hacking technique called clickjacking also called UI redressing is the hacker's attempt to hide the actual user interface where the user is supposed to click and making them click elsewhere without their knowledge.

In simple words, the hacker hijacks your clicks wherein the user unaware of the attack clicks the wrong page where the hacker wants you to.

9. Passive Attacks

Passive assaults like eavesdropping are extremely difficult to detect. In these attacks, the hacker monitors the network and doesn't tamper with any information. They only sneak in your system in hopes of gaining some confidential information which they can later use for their gain.
Such vulnerable attacks are difficult to prevent So; a user has to practice extreme caution for protecting themselves against these attacks.

10. Social Engineering

Social Engineering attacks usually target enterprises and organizations. These attacks employ a human element to gain business-critical information by psychologically manipulating the user or fooling them in good faith.

They use this technique often in conjunction with other hacking methods for launching brutal cyber attacks.