Cyber threats are becoming more serious every year. The hits are getting bigger, and the thirst for valuable data is getting stronger. And all businesses and enterprises are vulnerable to these attacks. But still, hackers favor some industries more than others.
This is because some industries have more valuable information, rely more on digital infrastructure, or don’t have adequate security measures in place.
The best thing to do is to understand which industries are most vulnerable. This will help organizations prioritize investments. In this article, we will walk through the main areas that are more likely to be attacked by cyberattacks.
Healthcare
It is the healthcare sector that is under serious threat in the cybersphere. Hackers are very fond of this sector for hacking. Why? Simple, hospitals, clinics and insurance companies store huge amounts of personal medical information. And it’s very valuable on the black market.
Often, hospitals have outdated IT systems. They also have a large number of connected devices in a day. That makes them a good target.
Common threats: Ransomware, phishing, data breaches, insider threats.
One of the most famous attack cases was in 2021. It was a ransomware attack on an Irish health authority that paralyzed medical services for weeks.
Finance and Banking
Financial institutions are a pretty obvious target for hackers. Not only do they contain a lot of valuable information about customers and businesses, but they also contain a lot of money. This can all be used for the hackers’ personal use as well as for sale.
Often, phishing, data breaches, and identity theft will be used to infiltrate this area. Especially malicious hackers will try to trick you with wire transfers and make money. Therefore, such institutions should follow the rules: training of employees, a reliable anti-virus system like Moonlock on devices, and constant updating of all systems.
In 2016, hackers stole $81 million from Bangladesh’s central bank via SWIFT.
Retail and E-commerce
These companies constantly run huge volumes of credit history transactions and circulate customer data. And this is very valuable information for any hacker. Such platforms are especially vulnerable during the holidays. There is an increase in traffic, and it is easy to catch someone phishing.
Point-of-sale (POS) malware, payment skimming, and phishing attacks are widespread. Smaller retailers may not have robust cybersecurity protocols in place.
The Target store hack in 2013 compromised the data of more than 40 million shoppers.
Government and Public Sector
Usually, these sites have huge databases with government information. It’s usually confidential and has a bunch of data on citizens, intelligence, and other stuff. And this is very valuable information for the black market. Hackers can make a fortune off of it.
A large number of agencies use outdated systems. And sneaking into one can open up access to deeper holes.
The SolarWinds attack in 2020, allegedly state-sponsored, hacked into multiple U.S. government agencies.
Education
Schools, universities, and other such institutions keep a lot of personal data. Research, financial records, and new developments can also be found here.
Phishing is often spread here because young people can be easily hooked on it. And when institutions switched to online education in 2020, it became even easier.
In 2020, Utah State University paid more than $450,000 after a ransomware attack encrypted its servers.
Manufacturing
Often, large enterprises that produce something rely on connected systems. Typically, IoT and industrial automation. And intellectual property and proprietary processes are great commodities for hackers. You can make money on it or take something for yourself.
Disruption of production lines is common, trade secret theft and ransomware targeting operational technology (OT) are less common.
A ransomware attack on Honda in 2020 led to a temporary shutdown of global operations.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications providers store vast amounts of critical information. This includes user data, call records, location data, and Internet activity. This is a great tool to get data for the next attack by hackers.
Attacks can lead to massive service disruptions, surveillance, and data theft. Telecommunications companies also serve as gateways for attacks on other industries.
In 2020, a major cyberattack on Australia targeted telecommunications, among other sectors, reportedly by a state-sponsored group.
Media and Entertainment
This industry is also considered one of the most coveted by hackers.
This is where valuable intellectual property is processed. You can find unreleased movies, music, news stories, and tons of other information. You can sell it or try to blackmail famous personalities. Simply put, this is a real goldmine for hackers.
You can both make money here and find ways to achieve your goals.
Leaks, ransomware and extortion are widespread. The rapidly changing nature of media makes it difficult to consistently apply cybersecurity best practices.
In 2014, Sony Pictures suffered a high-profile hack that leaked emails, movies and employee data, and the attack was attributed to North Korea.