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Threat Actors and Their Motivations

Cyber Security Mastery: From Zero to Hero

Who are the Attackers?

Understanding who might attack a system helps us prioritize defenses. Attackers, or 'threat actors', come in many forms, each with different motivations and resources.

Actor TypeDescriptionMotivation
Script KiddiesInexperienced individuals using pre-written tools.Curiosity, ego, basic mischief.
HacktivistsGroups attacking systems for political or social change.Ideological goals, public protest.
Organized CrimeProfessional groups running cybercrime syndicates.Financial gain (ransomware, bank fraud).
Insider ThreatsCurrent or former employees.Espionage, revenge, negligence, financial gain.
State-Sponsored ActorsGovernment entities conducting cyber warfare.Espionage, sabotage, disrupting national security.

The Concept of 'Threat'

A threat is any potential danger that might exploit a vulnerability. The severity of a threat is often judged by the Capability (skill/resources) and the Intent (motivation) of the threat actor.