what is a cyber attack

A cyber attack is any offensive maneuver that targets computer information systems, computer networks, infrastructures, personal computer devices, or smartphones. It is a malicious and deliberate attempt by an individual or organization to breach the information system of another individual or organization. Cybercriminals use a variety of methods to launch a cyber attack, including malware, phishing, ransomware, denial of service, among other methods. Cyber attacks aim to disable, disrupt, destroy or control computer systems or to alter, block, delete, manipulate or steal the data held within these systems. Cyber attacks can range from installing spyware on a personal computer to attempting to destroy the infrastructure of entire nations. Cyber attacks can be launched by any individual or group from anywhere by using one or more various attack strategies. Cyber attacks can be classified as cyberwarfare when governments around the world are involved in cyber attacks, with many national governments acknowledging or suspected of designing and executing attacks against other countries as part of ongoing political, economic, and social disputes.