New Threats in Cybersecurity

Cyprus International University (CIU) School of Applied Sciences Faculty Member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yasemin Bay Ayzeren stated that cyber security is gaining importance in the digital world day afrer day, and that with the rapid development of technology and the spread of digitalization, both individuals and institutions are faced with serious threats in protecting their data.

Ayzeren pointed out that cyber attacks lead to identity theft, data leaks and even major financial losses, and added that this situation can be prevented  by improving cyber security.

Ayzeren stated that cyber attacks targeting individuals usually focus on the acquisition of personal information, and shared the information, “For example, identity theft occurs when cybercriminals steal personal data and perform financial transactions or open fake accounts. In addition, users are tricked into sharing their bank information or passwords through phishing attacks and fake e-mails.”

Noting that attacks on individuals violate personal privacy, Ayzeren underlined that this situation could also lead to financial losses that would put people in a difficult situation.

Ayzeren also spoke about cyberattacks against companies and continued as follows: These types of attacks are usually carried out on a large scale. For example, ransomware attacks are carried out. In these types of attacks, attackers encrypt company data and make it unusable. They then demand a ransom for the return of this data.
    
Reminding that data leaks are a situation that puts institutions' trade secrets and customer information at risk, Ayzeren said, "For example, the theft of customer credit card information of an e-commerce company leads to both financial and reputational losses."

Ayzeren said that individuals or institutions can take simple but effective steps to ensure their cybersecurity in order to avoid all these negativities and by  “Using strong passwords, keeping software up to date, and avoiding suspicious e-mails; these are just a few of the important precautions individuals can take. Institutions should provide cybersecurity training to their employees, perform regular data backups, and ensure network security by using firewalls.”

Stating that it is necessary to take the necessary precautions in order to safely benefit from the opportunities offered by technology, Ayzeren also noted that these precautions are the key to surviving in the digital world for both individuals and companies.