Companies big and small have had a hard time defending themselves from cyber attacks and it seems to be getting worse. Attacks can range from small scale to large, but the end result is still the same. Approximately 1 million malware threats are released each day, keeping your business in the crosshairs.

Today, thieves are working faster to launch more attacks, in the hopes of gaining valuable information on yourself or your company. Data breaches and directed attacks have grown and of five out of six large companies were targeted. The public has become savvy with the tricks of old, but as the social and political climate change, so too do the strategies these cybercriminals take. Here are some hack ideas to be aware of in regards to new attacks:

1) Social sharing. It’s apparent when there is a would-be hack in the works. “Like” the video to see what happens next, or you see a friend share a link that was legitimate. These two are the most common “lifejacking” hacks out there. You see these ever so often but people still click on the links or become a “liker” of the page, spreading the attack in the process. Social hacking is a common and growing occurrence today, and cyber attackers know they have the best chance to infiltrate your system through these means.

2) Digital extortion. This comes in many forms from hackers stealing sensitive files or photos on your computer. They often demand a ransom in exchange for a key to decrypt their files. This form of extortion has grown of late because the amount of information we place on the Internet, even if it is just signing up for a rewards card. Once the information is out on the web, it is out there for hackers to see.

3) Software updates. You see them all the time on a smartphone and periodically on computers. Hackers often hide the malware inside the updates and when installed, the infection begins. This is a primary way in which hackers breach companies and networks, oftentimes, getting past the walls of security software. If the update comes from an unfamiliar source, it’s always best to walk away. Either that, or contact your IT professional

Always be on the defensive by knowing what’s out there and how dangerous the threat can really be. With the growing number of threats being released each day, you can’t afford not to be safe. Knowing what’s out there in the form of malware and how the hackers are sneaking in the threats is a strong preventative measure in staying ahead of the attacks.