#Introduction to Cyber Threats: Part 4
In the previous parts, we defined some key terms and concepts related to cyber threats, such as vulnerability, exploit, attack vector, threat actor, and threat intelligence. We also discussed the main motivations and goals of cyber attackers, the different types of cyber threats, and some best practices for cyber threat prevention and mitigation.
In this part, we will explore some examples of cyber attacks and their impacts. We will also look at some lessons learned and recommendations for improving cybersecurity.
- ##Examples of Cyber Attacks and Their Impacts
Cyber attacks can have various impacts on individuals, organizations, and nations. Some of the impacts can be direct, such as data loss, system damage, or financial losses. Some of the impacts can be indirect, such as reputational damage, legal liabilities, or regulatory fines. Some of the impacts can be short-term, such as service disruption or performance degradation. Some of the impacts can be long-term, such as identity theft, intellectual property theft, or national security breaches.
- Here are some examples of cyber attacks and their impacts:
- **Kaseya Ransomware Attack**:
Kaseya, a US-based provider of remote management software, experienced a supply chain attack, which was made public on July 2, 2021. The company announced that attackers could use its VSA product to infect customer machines with ransomware. The attack was reported to be highly sophisticated, chaining together several new vulnerabilities discovered in the Kaseya product. The malware exploiting these vulnerabilities was pushed to customers using a fake software update labeled “Kaseya VSA Agent Hot Fix”. The attack was carried out by the Russian-based REvil cybercrime group. The attack affected more than 1,500 businesses worldwide, including schools, hospitals, supermarkets, and travel agencies. The attackers demanded $70 million in ransom for a universal decryption key. The attack caused significant disruption and damage to the victims' operations and data.
- **SolarWinds Supply Chain Attack**:
SolarWinds, a US-based provider of network management software, experienced a supply chain attack that was discovered in December 2020. The company announced that attackers had compromised its Orion software update server and inserted malicious code into legitimate updates that were distributed to customers between March and June 2020. The malicious code allowed the attackers to gain remote access to the customers' networks and systems. The attack was attributed to a state-sponsored actor known as APT29 or Cozy Bear. The attack affected more than 18,000 customers worldwide, including government agencies, private companies, and critical infrastructure operators. The attackers were able to steal sensitive information, Spy on communications, and potentially disrupt or sabotage operations.
- **Equifax Data Breach**: Equifax,
A US-based credit reporting agency experienced a data breach that was disclosed in September 2017.
The company announced that attackers had exploited a known vulnerability in its web application
and accessed its databases between May and July 2017. The attackers were able to steal the personal information of more than 147 million people worldwide, including names, addresses, social security numbers, birth dates, and driver's license numbers. The attackers also stole credit card numbers
of more than 200,000 people. The breach caused massive identity theft, fraud, and lawsuits for the victims and Equifax.
