A cyber-attack is a deliberate, malicious attempt to damage, disrupt or gain unauthorised access to computer systems, networks, or digital devices. These attacks are often carried out by cybercriminals whose goals include; stealing data, altering information, or disrupting services for financial gain or political reasons.
Hackers or criminal groups use tactics like phishing and ransomware to exploit vulnerabilities.
Types of cyber-attacks include:
Malware: (short for “malicious software”) refers to any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or network. It includes viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and ransomware. Malware can:
Phishing: a deceptive tactic where attackers impersonate legitimate entities (like banks or trusted companies) to trick individuals into revealing personal information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or login credentials. It often comes via email, text, or fake websites.
Spoofing: impersonating another device, user, or website to gain unauthorised access to data or systems. Common types include:
Backdoor trojan: a type of malware that creates a hidden entry point into a system, allowing attackers to bypass normal authentication and gain remote access. It often masquerades as legitimate software and is used to install other malicious tools or steal data.
Ransomware: Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts a victim’s files or locks their system, demanding payment (usually in cryptocurrency) to restore access. It’s one of the most financially damaging cyber threats and often targets businesses and institutions.
Password attacks: aim to steal or crack user passwords to gain unauthorised access. Common methods include:
Unfortunately, no business or industry are completely safe from cybercriminals. It doesn’t matter how small or big your business is, if there is data to steal or money to gain, they will attempt to infiltrate and take or disrupt as much as they can.
You may be thinking… I have never experienced a cyber-attack before, so I don’t need insurance. Let us put it this way, would you never lock your car or home again just because it has never been broken into or stolen before?
No. Staying safe from these attacks is extremely important and being insured to keep your business covered against cyber-attacks is a must!
Cyber hygiene refers to the practices and procedures that an organisation uses to maintain the security of their devices, networks, and data. This includes:
These procedures help with the prevention of attacks, however, in the unfortunate event of a cyber-attack, being insured and making sure your business is covered in the aftermath is essential.
Here at Moriarty Insurance we offer Cyber & Data Insurance and our dedicated corporate insurance team provide bespoke cover for:
Don’t wait till it’s too late! Get in touch today. Our dedicated, friendly team of experts are on hand to answer any query you may have and can tell you exactly how you can get cover for your business.
Every Growing Business Why They Should All Review Their Insurance Annually As businesses grow, their risks change. What protected your business a year ago may no longer provide the right level of cover today. Yet many businesses renew their insurance automatically without reviewing whether it still reflects how they operate.
Key Person Insurance Protecting the People Who Protect Your Business Every successful business has individuals who are absolutely essential to its day‑to‑day operations – the people who drive revenue, manage relationships, make strategic decisions, or hold specialist knowledge. But what would happen if one of those key people suddenly became critically ill or passed
Business Loan Insurance Protecting Your Business When It Matters Most Taking out a business loan is often a smart move – it can help you expand, invest, hire, or stabilise cash flow. But what happens if a key person in your business suddenly becomes critically ill or passes away? Without the right