In this expert session, cybersecurity specialist Rolf Van Wegberg discusses various cyber threats and the motivations behind cybercrimes. Rolf begins by asking participants to optimize their viewing experience by muting microphones and adjusting screens. He introduces the topic of cybersecurity, emphasizing its importance in protecting oneself, companies, and loved ones from various threats.
Rolf explores the motivations for cybercrimes, which can range from profitability to activism or even nation-state sponsorship. Many cybercriminals lack technical capabilities and instead rely on underground services, making it an outsourced means of executing attacks. Common threats include ransomware attacks, spam emails, and scams.
Rolf delves deeper into the economics behind cybercrimes, explaining that attackers aim to minimize costs while maximizing gains through cost optimization and outsourcing resources if needed. He discusses psychological tactics used by cybercriminals to pressure victims into paying ransom, such as manipulating emotions with fear and time pressure.
Cybercriminals often use automation throughout the process, from attack development to distribution and cashing out stolen funds. Automated methods make attacks more efficient and profitable for criminals. Rolf advises understanding these tactics to better protect against potential threats.
Rolf focuses on targeted cyber-attacks and provides insights into the strategies of attackers. Attackers now look for multiple entry points, making them not limited to a specific operating system. They also optimize attacks during periods when IT staffing is minimal, such as holidays. Investing in excellent customer service can make victims more likely to comply with ransom demands.
Regarding cybercrime services and their developers or programmers, Rolf explains they can be prosecuted as accessories to a crime due to their facilitation of these attacks. However, finding and prosecuting these individuals is challenging due to their use of anonymous environments like underground markets on the dark web.
The session concludes with an invitation for participants to ask further questions through the chat feature and fill out a survey. Rolf emphasizes that targeted organizations, such as hospitals and universities, are common targets due to their inability to go offline and potential liability claims. These organizations may be asked for large ransom amounts, making them prime targets for attackers.
Overall, Rolf Van Wegberg provides valuable insights into cybersecurity threats, the motivations behind cybercrimes, and the tactics of attackers. Understanding these aspects is crucial in taking steps to protect oneself, one's company, and loved ones from potential harm.
