Technological advances have brought with them a considerable increase in the number of cases of computer crime. Fraud poses unique challenges for law enforcement, which is constantly forced to adapt to new forms of cybercrime. Largely due to the complexity of the methods employed by offenders.

This just goes to show how important it is to understand and proactively address cybercrime, both individually and institutionally, so that we can protect the integrity of our systems.

But are you clear what is a computer-related crime? Below we explain the characteristics of this type of fraud, how it is dealt with in the Spanish criminal code and give you some examples.

What is a computer-related crime?

A computer crime is any illegal activity involving the use of computer systems or networks, ranging from malicious intrusions to data theft, manipulation of online information, cyberbullying, online defamation or violation of privacy.

Computer fraud poses a major threat to cyber security, data integrity and trust in digital systems. For this reason, governments around the world, as well as the cybersecurity professionals work tirelessly to improve their defences and protect themselves against such risks.

What are considered computer-related crimes under the Penal Code?

In recent years, digital crimes have not only not increased, but have become more and more common. increasingly sophisticated, forcing the authorities to keep abreast of such threats.

In this context, Spanish legislation sets the legal guidelines for identifying and punishing cyber fraud, having evolved in recent years to adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Computer-related crime is criminalised in the Cybersecurity Penal Code as an action that undermines the confidentiality, integrity and availability of systems, data or software. A definition that covers a broad spectrum of activities, from unauthorised intrusions to malicious manipulation of digital information. But in addition, unauthorised interference with the operation of computer systems is also an act punishable by law.

Currently, the Criminal Code addresses computer-related crime under the umbrella of several provisions, mainly the cybercrime and the computer fraud offence.

• The cybercrime relates to the destruction, damage or alteration of data, software or computer systems. Basically, any action that causes damage to the integrity of information stored on digital media.
• The computer fraud in the Criminal Code refers to the use of deception, trickery or manipulation of information in telematic or cyber environments for the purpose of unlawful financial gain. This provision recognises the increasing prevalence of online scams and seeks to sanction those who use digital means to carry out fraudulent actions.

Types of cybercrime and examples

The variety and sophistication of the technological crimes constantly challenge Internet security. It is therefore essential to understand the different threats lurking in cyberspace in order to strengthen our defences.

1. Social engineering pishing

This is a computer fraud that can range from the online identity theft to phishing schemes aimed at tricking users into revealing sensitive information. Typically, cybercriminals disguise themselves as trusted entities to obtain personal information, such as usernames and passwords.

A classic example is the sending of fake emails pretending to be from recognised services, such as the bank or the electricity company, requesting confidential information. These are so sophisticated that they are even difficult for experienced users to detect.

2. Hacking offence

The illegal access to computer systemsHacking, commonly known as hacking, is a cybercrime that can have very serious consequences. Hackers use their skills to infiltrate systems, access sensitive data and, in some cases, disrupt the normal functioning of digital platforms.

A common example is attacks on government databases, where hackers can obtain sensitive information and even compromise national security.

3. Intellectual property offences

The intellectual property theft is another type of cybercrime that has been gaining prominence in recent years. Cybercriminals can copy, distribute or steal IP-related elements, such as software, designs or proprietary data, causing significant losses to both individuals and businesses.

The most common examples include software piracy and unauthorised distribution of copyrighted content, mainly affecting the entertainment and technology industry.

4. Denial of Service Attacks (DDoS)

These cybercrimes aim to disable online services by flooding them with fake traffic. As a result, large platforms and websites can be temporarily disabled, as has happened on some occasions in attacks on financial and government services.

5. Threats of sextortion

Criminals threaten to reveal compromising information, such as intimate images, unless a ransom is paid. This type of crime affects the privacy and emotional security of victims.

Become an expert in cybersecurity and fight online crime

As mentioned above, the Penal Code Spanish law provides a solid legal framework for tackling cybercrime, recognising the importance of protecting the integrity and security of digital systems.

However, it must be borne in mind that constant changes in the technology sector require constant efforts to adapt laws to deal with emerging threats.

In this context, collaboration between different sectors is essential to minimise risks. It is therefore not surprising that, in recent years, the demand for professionals in this field has increased. cybersecurity experts has experienced significant growth, and within this framework IMMUNE is positioned as a key player in the training of experts in this field.

We offer a complete Cybersecurity Bootcampa comprehensive programme designed to acquire professional competences in the technical areas of ethical hackingBecome a cybersecurity expert to fight against cybercrime!

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In today's digitised world, the cyber attacks have become a constant threat. Organisations and individuals face a multitude of threats that can have serious consequences for their security, privacy and finances.

But do you know what is a cyber-attack And why are they so dangerous? In this article, we explain in detail what a cyberattack is, what it is, the different types of cyberattacks that exist and give you some examples so that you can better understand what these threats consist of.

What is a cyber-attack?

A cyber-attack is a deliberate act of infiltrating computer systems, networks or devices with the purpose of accessing or damaging computer systems, networks, devices or digital data; and stealing or manipulating confidential information or digital resources. Typically perpetrated by malicious individuals, organised groups or even nations with various motivations, ranging from data theft to service disruption, sabotage or espionage actions.

They can be of varying levels of complexity and scope, and use a variety of different attack vectors. From simple threats such as phishing, where cybercriminals trick victims to obtain personal data, to highly sophisticated attacks through powerful malware that can compromise critical societal infrastructures.

In addition, they can contact numerous objectives, including businesses, governments, financial institutions and individuals. Cybersecurity has become essential to protect against these threats and to ensure the integrity, confidentiality and availability of digital systems and data.

Most common types of cyber-attacks

Such threats are constantly evolving and can encompass a wide variety of techniques and approaches. Therefore, in order to understand the dangers to which we are all exposed, in addition to knowing what is a cyber-attackIf you do not know what the most common types are, it is essential that you know what the most common types are. This way, you can be better prepared to protect your business and your privacy.

Below, we explain some of the most common types of cyber-attacks:

1. Malware: encompasses a huge compendium of malicious software, including viruses, Trojans and ransomware. Designed to infiltrate computer systems and cause serious damage. The virus are replicated and attached to files and programmes; the Trojans masquerade as legitimate software to steal information; and the ransomware files demanding a ransom in exchange for their release.
2. Phishing: Phishing is a fairly common and increasingly sophisticated technique. Attackers impersonate real banks or companies to deceive victims and obtain confidential data such as passwords, credit card numbers and bank details. To do so, they use fraudulent emails, forged websites and persuasive messages.
3. Denial of Service Attacks (DDoS): These attacks aim to saturate a system or network with fake traffic, overloading it and making it inaccessible to users. To do this, botnets or manipulated devices are often used to direct huge amounts of traffic to a specific target, causing websites and online platforms to crash.
4. Social engineering attacks: This type of threat involves manipulating victims through persuasion and psychological manipulation to gain access to different systems or to get them to disclose sensitive data or perform certain actions. Usually through phone calls, emails or online interactions.
5. Password hacking: This threat is based on the vulnerability of passwords. Cybercriminals use techniques such as brute-force or dictionary techniques to guess passwords and gain access to accounts or systems.
6. Network attacks: Attackers look for security gaps in computer networks to gain access to sensitive systems and data. This involves, for example, exploiting faulty configurations or looking for weak entry points in the network.
7. Zero-Day Attacks: these attacks focus on newly discovered vulnerabilities in software before developers can address them. Cybercriminals take advantage of this before security patches are released.

Examples of cyber-attacks

Now you know what a cyber-attack is and which are the most common ones. But, to better understand why they are so dangerous, it is essential that you know a few of them. examples of real cyber-attacks that have had a significant impact on society and cyber security in recent years.

Since the infamous ransomware WannaCry which affected companies around the world until the attack Stuxnet, which highlighted the potential of cyber-attacks as weapons between states, the following examples illustrate the diversity and severity of the cyber threats we face.

1. Stuxnet (2010): the Stuxnet attack was a milestone in the field of cyber security, being one of the first cyber weapons backed by national governments. It demonstrated that cyber attacks could be used to compromise physical systems, in this case nuclear centrifuges. It exposed the weakness of critical infrastructures to cybercrime.
2. Attack on Sony Pictures (2014): Through massive data breaches and the destruction of systems, the attack on Sony Pictures showed how cybercrime can affect a company's reputation and operations.
3. WannaCry (2017): This attack provided a powerful demonstration of the global reach that ransomware attacks can have and the importance of keeping systems and software up to date.
4. DDoS attack on GitHub (2018): This incident highlighted the weakness of even the largest and most fortified technology platforms in the face of DDoS attacks. It highlighted the need for more robust mechanisms and preparedness to deal with such risks.

Learn how to protect your company thanks to IMMUNE's Master's Degree in Cybersecurity

It should be noted that these examples are just the tip of the iceberg in the world of cyber-attacks. The threat is constant and continues to evolve on a daily basis, which makes the cybersecurity is a growing concern today.

In this regard, education and the adoption of good cybersecurity practices are essential to minimise risks and keep information and systems secure in an increasingly connected world.

Our Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Online will give you the knowledge and skills to identify what a cyber-attack is, the vulnerabilities that affect your code, manage threats, use cyber-intelligence and perform forensic analysis. What are you waiting for to sabotage the malicious plans of cybercriminals?

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