
Image: Sergey Zolkin (Unsplash)
In the Summer 2023 online security trends report by ReasonLabs, it was highlighted that malware emerged as the principal online threat to consumers during the months of May to July 2023, representing 58% of all detections.
The comprehensive study delved into international security incidents and provided data and insights into various online threats. Researchers discovered that consumer activity online witnesses a surge during the summertime, encompassing both computer and mobile device usage. This heightened online presence corresponds with an escalated risk for users, many of whom remain oblivious to the prevalence and intricacy of online threats.
For those leading security teams, especially those with remote-working staff, there’s a pressing need to enlighten them about prevalent online threats, more so when personal gadgets are used for professional tasks. The report also highlighted other notable threats:
- Phishing, accounting for 24.7%: This threat involves deceptive tactics to coerce users into divulging sensitive data like passwords and credit card details.
- Adware, making up 8.1%: This type of malicious software might force undesired ads on a device, alter a computer’s configurations, or present potentially harmful advertisements.
- Pirated software, at 3.8%: This is notorious for having malicious elements concealed within and is often integrated into platforms offering free content, including movies and series.
- Cryptojacking, comprising 3.6%: Here, an attacker harnesses a victim’s computer or device to secretly mine cryptocurrencies.
For a more in-depth understanding, the complete report is accessible here.