Attacks in cybersecurity can be classified based on various criteria such as their targets, methods, goals, or techniques.
Below is a detailed classification:
1. Based on Target
• Network Attacks
Focus on exploiting weaknesses in network infrastructure (e.g., routers, firewalls).
Examples: DDoS attacks, man-in-the-middle (MITM), ARP spoofing.
• Application Attacks
Target vulnerabilities in software or web applications.
Examples: SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), buffer overflows.
• Host-Based Attacks
Exploit vulnerabilities in individual systems or endpoints.
Examples: Malware, privilege escalation, ransomware.
2. Based on Methodology
• Passive Attacks
Focus on eavesdropping or monitoring data without altering it.
Examples: Sniffing, traffic analysis.
• Active Attacks
Involve direct interaction with the system to alter, disrupt, or destroy data.
Examples: Data modification, session hijacking, denial of service.
3. Based on Goal
• Confidentiality Attacks
Aim to steal or expose sensitive information.
Examples: Data breaches, phishing.
• Integrity Attacks
Seek to manipulate or corrupt data.
Examples: File tampering, man-in-the-middle modification.
• Availability Attacks
Target system downtime or resource exhaustion.
Examples: DDoS attacks, ransomware.
4. Based on Techniques Used
• Social Engineering Attacks
Exploit human psychology to gain unauthorized access.
Examples: Phishing, baiting, pretexting.
• Malware-Based Attacks
Use malicious software to disrupt or gain control of systems.
Examples: Viruses, worms, spyware, trojans.
• Exploitation-Based Attacks
Leverage vulnerabilities in software or systems.
Examples: Zero-day exploits, SQL injection.
5. Based on Scope
• Targeted Attacks
Aimed at a specific organization or individual.
Examples: Advanced persistent threats (APTs), spear phishing.
• Opportunistic Attacks
Non-specific attacks that exploit general vulnerabilities.
Examples: Spam campaigns, drive-by downloads.
6. Based on Automation
• Manual Attacks
Require direct involvement of an attacker.
Examples: Brute force attempts, manual privilege escalation.
• Automated Attacks
Use scripts or tools to automate exploitation.
Examples: Botnets, automated SQL injection.
7. Based on Source
• Internal Attacks
Perpetrated by individuals within the organization.
Examples: Insider threats, data leaks.
• External Attacks
Carried out by outsiders or third parties.
Examples: Hacktivism, nation-state attacks.
8. Based on Attack Vectors
• Physical Attacks
Involve physical access to devices.
Examples: USB attacks, hardware tampering.
• Remote Attacks
Exploit systems without physical access.
Examples: Remote code execution, phishing.
9. Based on Intent
• Ethical Hacking
Conducted by authorized personnel to test defenses.
Examples: Penetration testing, vulnerability assessments.
• Malicious Attacks
Intend to cause harm or gain unauthorized benefits.
Examples: Espionage, sabotage.
By understanding these classifications, security professionals can better identify, mitigate, and defend against various types of attacks.