How to differentiate a real cyberattack from a computer issue

During 2023, there were around 2,200 cyberattacks per day, an increase compared to the 2022 data (1,900 cyberattacks per day). However, the targets haven't changed; companies remain the main victims due to the large amounts of data they store and their tendency to pay the requested ransoms to recover their information.

However, sometimes cyberattacks are confused with simple computer issues, as happened recently with CrowdStrike. A flaw in the Microsoft operating system update left thousands of companies unable to carry out their activities normally.

Next, we will discuss how we can differentiate a real cyberattack from a computer problem.

Differences between a cyberattack and a computer issue

The main characteristic of a cyberattack is that it comes from an external agent with a specific goal that compromises the system's security. On the other hand, a computer problem is usually internal, related to hardware issues or operating system errors. A cyberattack can be identified by signs of suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access, modified or deleted files, and unusual network traffic.

The way to resolve a computer problem is usually done through the official technical support of the manufacturer, while a cyberattack should be handled through a cybersecurity provider or, in the case of a more severe attack, by dealing with the cybercriminals themselves.

As for the impact, a cyberattack can have devastating consequences for any company that suffers it, ranging from economic to reputational and brand image damages. On the other hand, a computer problem that does not affect the company's operations typically does not have the same consequences as a cyberattack.

Importance of solving a computer problem before it's too late

Although a computer problem may seem less urgent than dealing with a cyberattack, solving it can be the main preventive measure against cyberattacks. An unresolved computer problem can be the first step for a cybercriminal to gain access to our systems and carry out a cyberattack.

Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities and security gaps in a system to launch their cyberattacks against it. There are also other types of attacks, known as Zero-day attacks, which exploit undetected vulnerabilities. In these cases, cybercriminals take advantage of system weaknesses that have not yet been addressed by the system's security team to launch a cyberattack.

Tips to distinguish a cyberattack from a technical failure

Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish a cyberattack from a technical failure. Therefore, below we will look at some examples that may indicate you are experiencing a cyberattack rather than a technical issue.

Strange system behavior

If we are experiencing a cyberattack or our device is infected with malware, it is very common for unusual pop-up windows, unexpected changes in files or settings to appear while using the device. On the other hand, in the case of a technical failure, blue screens or system crashes are more common. These failures usually don't alter system settings or manipulate data.

System performance

Some cyberattacks, such as cryptojacking, use the CPU or GPU at full capacity to perform tasks without the user's knowledge, usually for malicious purposes. A technical failure with these characteristics may present itself similarly, but without the malicious intent of a cyberattack.

Suspicious warnings

In an IT failure, error warnings are usually more technical and come directly from the operating system or programs, with less emphasis on pressuring you to take immediate action.

In phishing or ransomware attacks, they are often accompanied by intimidating messages, fake emails, or alarmist notifications that try to get you to take an action, such as clicking on a link or downloading a file.

Cybersecurity for a business is one of the key factors that can affect its proper development, which is why it's vital to pay attention to all possible signals that indicate our company may be undergoing a cyberattack. In addition to adopting specific cybersecurity tools, it's also important to raise awareness and train all employees to prevent potential cyberattacks.