How cyber-safe is your country?
Cyber security is gaining more relevance as hackers are picking up their speed in crafting more menacing and more destructive malware every day. Our friends from Comparitech decided to design a comprehensive picture illustrating cyber security statistics. The major topics of concern remain the file-encrypting threats (ransomware), web application attacks, DDoS attacks, and espionage. The iconographic reveals that the US, Brazil, Germany, Russia, China, Japan and South Korea remain the key players and targets for cyber assaults. The report has also disclosed a list of other vulnerable countries. If you reside in one of the mentioned countries, you might be concerned with a dilemma – are you prepared enough for a virtual attack?
According to the report, China has earned much attention not only for its commendable progress in economics but for having the highest number of malware registered in its territory as well. Taiwan, Turkey, and Russia share the 2nd-4th positions for the highest number of malware respectively. On the other hand, Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Japan are praised for the lowest malware indicators. Interestingly, Poland has made itself prominent high number of malware in the Europe. Elaborating on Web application attack rates, the US is reported to be the primary target. Nonetheless, it seconds China in the DDoS attacks source countries’ list. The Unites States also reported the biggest number (54%) of cyber espionage incidents, while the Philippines received least espionage attacks. Unfortunately, the overall rate of free speech keeps downsizing in the cyber space. Communication applications have received much attention as well[1].
Taking into account this statistical data, the demand for cyber security experts is more relevant than ever before. Due to multiple factors, RaaS (ransomware –as-a-service),[2] educational viruses, dark web, the number of cyber villains is rapidly growing[3]. Cyber gearheads are no longer adolescent crooks, who are only interested in making a several-hundred profit. They are full-fledged software developers hired by companies[4]. On the other hand, the number of IT professionals who would be able to block or terminate exquisite attacks remains significantly low. Thirdly, these statistics reveal that countries, which remain to be popular targets for cyber assault, pay little attention to cyber education[5]. Less-proficient computer users and, especially, few employees are aware of the dangers opening an infected spam attachment or installing shady add-ons. Unless these factors are solved, the state of cyber security will only keep deteriorating.
- ^ Silencing the Messenger: Communication Apps Under Pressure. FreedomHouse. An independent watchdog organization dedicated to the expansion of freedom and democracy around the world.
- ^ Julie Splinters . What is ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS)?. 2spyware. News and virus removal guides.
- ^ Oliver Ralph. Cyber villains pose greater risks to smaller companies. Financial Times. News and commentary.
- ^ Cam Anderson. Cyber Security Specialists in Demand. Beyond. Auckland and Wellington Recruitment Agency.
- ^ Graeme Newman. Defence at the frontline: The importance of cyber education. ITProPortal. News and Guides for Business and Enterprise. .