In 2020 and 2021, the world has seen an unprecedented number of mobile app data breaches. From ransomware to phishing attempts, cybercriminals have been exploiting trends in mobile device usage for their own gains. As data breaches become increasingly common and sophisticated, it is essential that we take a closer look at the costs of cybercrime and the various types of attacks that are taking place. In this article, we will explore the latest trends in cybercrime statistics by device and platform as well as examine some of the biggest fines issued by GDPR authorities related to mobile app data breaches. Get ready to be shocked by just how vulnerable our connected devices really are!
Costs of cybercrimes
The costs of cybercrime are staggering and can have lasting, far-reaching consequences. For individuals, the cost of a data breach can include stolen funds, identity theft, and fraud, all of which can lead to financial devastation. For companies, the cost of a data breach can range from fines issued by GDPR authorities for failing to protect customer data to lost business opportunities due to reputational damage caused by the breach. Data breaches can also lead to increased security costs as businesses invest in more sophisticated security measures in order to prevent future breaches. Finally, victims may be entitled to receive compensation for damages caused by the breach from either the perpetrator or their own insurance providers. Cybercriminals may never be able to fully repay victims for their losses but understanding the true cost of cybercrime is an important step toward protecting ourselves and our data.
Cybercrime affects us all and its consequences can be devastating. It is our responsibility to understand the true cost of cybercrime and take steps to protect ourselves and our data. In the next section, we’ll take a look at cybersecurity stats by device and platform – get ready to find out which type of devices are most vulnerable to attack!
Statistics on cybersecurity by device and platform
Cybersecurity stats by device and platform show that the most vulnerable devices to attack are mobile phones. Mobile app data breaches in 2020-2023 were the most frequent, with an estimated 41% of all data breaches occurring on mobile devices. In addition, a study by Symantec revealed that Android apps are more likely to be targeted by cybercriminals than iOS apps.
The research also reveals that more advanced platforms like IoT (Internet of Things) devices such as smart home gadgets and wearables are increasingly being targeted as well. The number of attacks on connected devices has grown exponentially over the past few years and is expected to continue growing in the future.
Therefore, it is important for both individuals and businesses to take measures to protect themselves from these threats, including using secure passwords, regularly updating software, and investing in cybersecurity solutions such as antivirus software or firewalls. Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a cyberattack.
Overall, it is clear that mobile devices and platforms are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, so it is essential for both individuals and businesses to take appropriate measures to protect themselves. As the use of mobile devices and apps continues to grow, let’s explore what further steps can be taken to ensure their security in the next section.
Mobile devices and apps
Mobile devices and apps have made our lives easier and more convenient, but unfortunately, they also pose a risk to our digital security. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the sheer number of mobile devices in use today and are targeting them with malicious software, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats. Furthermore, mobile apps can be vulnerable to data breaches, which can result in users’ personal information being leaked or stolen.
The best way to protect yourself from these threats is to take steps such as using secure passwords, regularly updating your device’s software and apps, and investing in cybersecurity solutions such as antivirus software or firewalls. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with downloading apps from unofficial sources as they can contain malicious content.
Overall, mobile devices and apps provide us with many benefits but also come with risks that must not be overlooked. By being vigilant about our online activities we can reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of cybercrime when using our mobile devices.
Video games
Video games have become a major form of entertainment for people around the world, but unfortunately, they can also be a target for cybercrime. Cybercriminals are constantly innovating new methods to exploit gamers and steal their data. This can include anything from stealing login credentials to infiltrating personal accounts and taking credit card information.
To protect yourself while gaming, it is important to use secure passwords and two-factor authentication whenever possible. Additionally, gamers should avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when playing online and not share any sensitive information with strangers. It is also important to be aware of phishing attacks that could lead you to malicious websites or download malicious software onto your device.
Finally, it is important to stay up-to-date on security patches and updates for your games and consoles as these can help protect against vulnerabilities that hackers may try to exploit. By following best practices and being vigilant about our online activities, we can reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime when gaming.
IoT devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized our lives and connected us to the world in ways we never thought possible. However, this new technology has also opened the door to potential cybersecurity risks. IoT devices are constantly being targeted by cybercriminals who seek to exploit vulnerabilities for their own gain.
To protect ourselves from these threats, it is important to be aware of best practices when using IoT devices. This includes keeping all devices updated with the latest security patches and software updates, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. Additionally, users should avoid connecting any devices to public Wi-Fi networks or sharing sensitive information with strangers.
Finally, users should be mindful of phishing attacks that may lead them to malicious websites or download malicious software onto their devices. By following these simple steps and exercising caution online, we can reduce the risk of falling victim to an IoT attack and ensure our data remains secure.
Social media
Social media has become an integral part of our lives, connecting us with our friends, family, and the world at large. While it can be a great tool for staying in touch and keeping up with news, it is also essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with using it.
To protect your data and privacy online, always use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication when available, and review your privacy settings regularly. Be careful when sharing personal information such as credit card numbers or bank details as this could be used by cybercriminals for identity theft or fraud. Additionally, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources as these could contain malware that could compromise your device.
By taking simple steps to secure our accounts and being mindful of how we interact on social media platforms, we can help ensure our data remains safe and secure while still enjoying the benefits of staying connected.
Cyberattack statistics by type
Cyberattacks come in many forms, with each type posing a different level of threat to individuals and organizations. To better understand the trends of cybercrime, it’s important to look at the statistics by type.
Malware is one of the most common types of attacks, accounting for an estimated 35% of all cyberattacks in 2020. Malware typically infects computers via malicious software, allowing hackers to gain access to sensitive information and networks. Ransomware is another form of malware that has seen a dramatic increase in recent years. It encrypts files on an infected computer before demanding a ransom payment from its victim in order to regain access.
Phishing is another popular attack vector, accounting for 14% of all cyber incidents in 2020. Phishing scams use emails or text messages that appear legitimate but actually contain malicious links or attachments. If opened, these can install malware or steal information from the user’s device.
Finally, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are becoming increasingly common as attackers seek to overwhelm websites and networks with traffic from multiple sources. DDoS accounted for 8% of all reported cyber incidents in 2020, making it one of the most threatening forms of attack today.
By understanding the different types of cyberattacks and staying vigilant online, we can help protect ourselves against these threats and ensure our data remains secure.
By being aware of the different types of cyberattacks, we can help keep ourselves and our data safe from harm. Looking ahead, it’s clear that ransomware attacks are on the rise – how bad is it really? Stay tuned to find out!
Ransomware statistics
Ransomware attacks are becoming an increasingly common form of cybercrime, with devastating consequences for businesses and individuals alike. According to a recent report from SonicWall, ransomware attacks saw a 40% surge in global activity in 2020. In the U.S., ransomware hits increased by 139%, totalling 145.2 million hits in 2020 alone.
The data presented shows that increased security measures are needed to protect against ransomware attacks. Unfortunately, many infections occur when victims unintentionally download malicious software via email attachments or suspicious links. It is important that users are aware of the risks associated with downloads and take steps to ensure the security of their devices.
Fortunately, there are steps that organizations and individuals can take to reduce the risk of a ransomware attack. These include regularly deploying anti-malware software and patching any known vulnerabilities on their systems. Additionally, it’s essential that organizations create a comprehensive backup plan to ensure they have access to critical data in the event of an attack. By taking these measures, businesses and individuals can help protect themselves from the risks posed by ransomware attacks.
Malware statistics
Malware is one of the most common forms of cybercrime, with devastating consequences for individuals and businesses alike. According to a recent report from SonicWall, global malware activity decreased by 39% in 2020, though ransomware attacks still saw an alarming 40% surge in activity. In the United States alone, ransomware hits totalled 145.2 million in 2020 – a 139% increase from the previous year.
These worrying figures highlight the need for organizations and individuals to be more vigilant when it comes to online security. It’s essential that users avoid downloading malicious software via email attachments or links from unknown sources, as this is often how hackers gain access to their systems. Additionally, businesses should ensure they have anti-malware software regularly deployed on their systems and patch any existing vulnerabilities. Finally, they should create comprehensive backup plans to ensure they can recover critical data if necessary. By taking these measures, organizations and individuals can help protect themselves against the threats posed by malware attacks.
Phishing statistics
Phishing is a common form of cyber attack, in which criminals send messages disguised as legitimate sources in order to gain access to confidential data. According to the AICPA’s 2018 report, nearly 60% of Americans have been exposed to fraud schemes, including 26% exposed to email phishing scams. Furthermore, the Verizon 2022 Data Breach Investigations Report revealed that 36% of data breaches involved phishing.
In order to protect themselves against phishing attacks, users should always be suspicious of emails and text messages from unknown senders and should never click on links included in these messages. Additionally, users should avoid providing sensitive information over email or phone calls unless they can verify that the source is trustworthy. Finally, organizations should invest in anti-phishing software and implement protocols for staff training on how to recognize and respond to phishing attempts. With these measures in place, individuals and businesses can help protect themselves against this dangerous form of cybercrime.
Data breach statistics
Data breaches have become an increasingly common occurrence over the past few years, with organizations of all sizes at risk. According to a recent report from Accenture, there was a 67% increase in security breaches between 2014 and 2019. Additionally, the Verizon 2022 Data Breach Investigations Report revealed that 85% of data breaches involve a human element, such as employees clicking on malicious links or failing to properly secure their accounts. Furthermore, financially motivated attackers are responsible for most data breaches, making it essential for businesses to invest in adequate security measures to protect their data and customers.
To reduce the likelihood of a breach occurring, organizations should prioritize employee training on security protocols and install robust anti-phishing software. Additionally, businesses should limit access to sensitive information and encrypt stored data whenever possible. Finally, organizations should regularly audit their networks for any suspicious activity and take immediate action if any unauthorized access is detected. By following these best practices, businesses can help ensure that their systems remain secure against potential cyber threats.
Stalkerware statistics
Stalkerware has become an increasingly troubling issue in recent years, with cybercriminals using it to spy on their victims. According to a study by Norton, 94.86% of adults are unaware of stalker ware or have only heard the name, meaning that the threat is largely unknown. Additionally, one in five adults in a romantic relationship believes their partner is at least somewhat likely to plant stalker ware on them. Instances of stalker ware increased by 20% from November 2020 to January 2021, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant against this threat. To protect themselves against potential stalker ware attacks, individuals should be wary of suspicious emails and links, install strong antivirus software, and regularly change passwords for all accounts. By following these best practices, individuals can help ensure that their data remains secure and private.
Other cybercrime statistics
Other cybercrime statistics have shown an alarming trend in recent years. According to a study by the FBI, tech support fraud has increased by over 200% since 2019, resulting in victims losing over $116 million in 2020. Additionally, ad fraud is expected to cause losses of nearly $100 billion globally by 2024. Unfortunately, criminals have also found success through identity theft attempts, with 97.55 million consumers being victims of identity theft in the past year. To protect against these threats, individuals should be aware of suspicious emails and links, use strong passwords for all accounts, and regularly update their antivirus software. With the right measures in place, individuals can help ensure that their data and assets remain safe from malicious actors.
WhatsApp GDPR fine – €225 million
In September 2021, the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) issued a binding decision that required WhatsApp Ireland Ltd. to pay a GDPR fine of €225 million for transparency violations. This ruling came after the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) intervened and assessed that the initially proposed fine was too low and did not account for a sufficient timeframe for compliance from WhatsApp. The hefty GDPR penalty is one of the largest data protection fines ever issued in Europe, highlighting how serious breaches of data privacy laws are taken by the EU authorities. It serves as an important reminder to organizations to ensure they have robust systems in place to protect consumer data and comply with applicable regulations or face hefty financial repercussions.
Meta GDPR fine – €265 million
In November 2022, the Irish Data Protection Commission (IDPC) issued a substantial GDPR penalty of €265 million to Meta for not adhering to data protection policies. The DPC initiated an investigation into Meta in response to reports that Facebook’s dataset including personal information was leaked online without authorization. Reports suggest that up to 533 million users were impacted by the data breach, their information with details such as phone numbers and email addresses being revealed publicly.
The Irish DPC found that Meta had breached Article 25 of the GDPR, which requires organizations to implement organizational and technical measures to protect personal data. This hefty fine is one of the largest ever imposed in Europe, serving as a reminder that organizations must take steps to ensure they have robust systems in place in order to comply with applicable regulations and protect consumer data.
SLACK
In April 2021, Slack Technologies Inc. was the subject of a data breach as a result of malicious actors exploiting an API vulnerability. The attackers were able to gain access to user profiles and their messages, allowing them to access sensitive information such as private conversations and files. The company responded quickly by notifying affected users and patching the vulnerability, but the incident still caused significant alarm for those affected.
The incident highlights the importance of organizations having adequate security measures in place to protect user data. It also serves as a reminder that companies should continuously monitor their systems and respond quickly to any detected vulnerabilities. Additionally, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with using online services and take steps to securely store their data. This includes using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, as well as keeping their systems up-to-date with the latest security patches.
Companies should also be aware of the potential consequences of a data breach and take steps to mitigate the risks. This includes having an incident response plan in place that outlines the process for responding to incidents such as data breaches. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing measures such as encryption to protect user data, as well as monitoring tools to detect any potential threats. Finally, companies should invest in cybersecurity training for their staff to ensure they are aware of the potential risks and how to protect their data.
PARK MOBILE APP – 21 million user accounts
In January 2021, Parkmobile LLC was the victim of a data breach that exposed more than 21 million user accounts. The breach occurred when hackers accessed an unsecured database containing customer information such as names, email addresses, passwords, and payment details. The company responded quickly by notifying affected users and taking steps to secure its systems.
This incident highlights the importance of organizations having adequate security measures in place to protect user data. It also serves as a reminder that companies should continuously monitor their systems and respond quickly to any detected vulnerabilities. Additionally, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with using online services and take steps to securely store their data. This includes using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, as well as keeping their systems up-to-date with the latest security patches.
APPLE iMessage – 900 million users
In October 2020, Apple was the subject of a data breach in which hackers accessed user accounts through an iMessage vulnerability involving all 900 million active users of MacBooks, iPads, watches, and iPhones. The hackers were able to gain access to users’ messages, contacts, and photos without authorization. The incident highlights the importance of organizations having adequate security measures in place to protect user data. It also serves as a reminder that companies should continuously monitor their systems and respond quickly to any detected vulnerabilities. Additionally, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with using online services and take steps to securely store their data. This includes using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, as well as keeping their systems up-to-date with the latest security patches. Apple responded quickly to the incident by releasing a patch to fix the vulnerability and notifying affected users. The company also took steps to strengthen its security measures and implemented additional monitoring systems. This incident serves as an important reminder of the risks associated with using online services, and users should take the necessary steps to protect their data.
The bottom line
Recent data breaches of popular mobile apps, such as ParkMobile and Apple iMessage, have highlighted the importance of organizations having adequate security measures in place to protect user data. Companies should continuously monitor their systems and respond quickly to any detected vulnerabilities. Additionally, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with using online services and take steps to securely store their data by using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, as well as keeping their systems up-to-date with the latest security patches. To ensure the safety of user data, companies should consider implementing measures such as encryption and monitoring tools, as well as investing in cybersecurity training for staff.
Organizations should also take steps to educate their users on the importance of data security. Providing resources such as tips and best practices for using mobile apps can help users become more aware of potential risks and how to protect their information. Additionally, companies should consider investing in cybersecurity training for their staff in order to better detect and respond to any potential threats.