Cyberattacks are no longer just an IT problem—they’re a global issue that affects businesses, governments, and individuals alike. Understanding where most attacks come from is the first step to building a solid defense. In this article, we take a close look at the top countries known for being the origin of cyber threats. Each section breaks down a specific statistic and provides practical, easy-to-follow advice for protecting your data and infrastructure.
1. Over 40% of global cyberattacks originate from China
China is widely known as a major source of global cyber threats. Nearly half of all cyberattacks tracked worldwide can be traced back to Chinese IP addresses or hacker groups.
These attacks often target industries like aerospace, healthcare, defense, and technology. They’re usually very sophisticated and are thought to be supported or tolerated by the state.
What does this mean for you? If your company operates in sectors that hold valuable intellectual property or sensitive data, you’re at risk. Start by identifying your most valuable digital assets.
These might be trade secrets, patent documents, or customer databases. Then, limit access to only those who absolutely need it.
Use endpoint detection and response tools to monitor unusual behavior. Invest in network segmentation, so that even if one area is breached, attackers can’t easily move sideways. Also, train your team to recognize spear-phishing emails, which are a common entry point used by advanced attackers from China.
Make sure you’re using multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all critical systems. Finally, regularly update your software and patch vulnerabilities. Chinese hackers often exploit outdated systems.
The takeaway is this: assume you are a target, especially if you’re in a high-value industry. Prepare your defenses accordingly.
2. Russia accounts for approximately 15% of the world’s cyberattack traffic
Russia has long been known as a powerhouse in cyber warfare.
Roughly 15% of the world’s cyberattack activity originates from this region, much of it linked to highly organized groups. These attacks tend to be more destructive than others, aiming to cripple systems or leak information. Some are even politically motivated.
If your business deals with infrastructure, elections, or media, you should be extra cautious. Russian attackers are known for using ransomware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and data theft.
One of the first things to do is ensure that you have robust backups. But more importantly, these backups should be stored offline or in isolated environments.
Build an incident response plan and run simulation drills. Knowing how to react quickly can mean the difference between minor disruption and major loss. Focus on detecting early signs of compromise. Network monitoring tools that spot data exfiltration or unusual access patterns are essential.
Another tip: limit the use of remote desktop protocol (RDP), a common tool exploited by attackers. If you must use it, protect it with strong passwords, MFA, and IP restrictions.
Keep an eye on threat intelligence reports. Many cybersecurity firms publish real-time updates on Russian cyber activity. Staying informed can give you a head start on prevention.
3. The United States is the origin of 10% of global cyberattacks, despite also being a primary target
While the U.S. is one of the most attacked nations globally, it’s also the source of about 10% of global cyberattacks. This may come as a surprise, but much of it is due to compromised systems within the country being used to launch further attacks.
These aren’t always American hackers; foreign attackers often take over unprotected U.S. systems. So if your servers, websites, or networks are located in the U.S., they could be weaponized without your knowledge.
To avoid becoming part of the problem, start by hardening your systems. This includes disabling unused services, changing default settings, and ensuring your firewall is properly configured.
Conduct regular vulnerability scans. They’ll help identify outdated software or misconfigurations that attackers could exploit.
Also, be wary of hosting environments or open ports that can be hijacked. If you’re using cloud infrastructure, ensure your cloud security settings are correct. Misconfigured buckets or open APIs are a common problem.
Set up alerts for outbound traffic spikes—this could indicate your systems are being used in an attack. Regular audits of access logs can also reveal misuse.
One last piece of advice: join an Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC) in your industry. These groups provide valuable insights into evolving threats and best practices.
4. North Korea is responsible for more than $2 billion in cyber heists over the last decade
North Korea has made headlines for cyberattacks that generate money for the regime. These are not petty thefts. We’re talking about multi-million dollar attacks targeting banks, crypto platforms, and global financial systems. Over $2 billion has been stolen in the last ten years.
This is especially critical if you’re in finance, crypto, or e-commerce. North Korean groups like Lazarus use social engineering, zero-day vulnerabilities, and even fake job offers to breach companies.
You should assume attackers will try to gain trust first. Teach your staff how to spot suspicious LinkedIn messages or emails pretending to be recruiters. Conduct phishing tests regularly.
Crypto platforms should isolate hot wallets and use multi-signature approval for transactions. Also, consider using hardware security modules (HSMs) to secure cryptographic keys.
If you’re running a finance app or handling transactions, monitor them in real time. Any abnormal activity should trigger an immediate investigation.
Don’t ignore basic hygiene either—apply security patches promptly and limit access to core financial systems. Use geo-blocking to prevent access from high-risk countries unless absolutely necessary.
Lastly, report any attempted breaches to the appropriate agencies. North Korean attacks are often part of wider campaigns, and your information could help others.
5. Iran ranks among the top 5 countries for state-sponsored cyberattacks
Iran has become increasingly active in the cyber space, with attacks focusing on both regional rivals and Western nations. These attacks are often politically motivated and may include defacing websites, stealing sensitive data, or disrupting operations.
Many of these attacks are aimed at energy, oil, and public infrastructure systems. If your business touches these sectors, you should prioritize threat detection and containment.
Iranian hackers often use known exploits. They’re opportunistic, not always sophisticated. So patch management is your first line of defense. Set a schedule to regularly update systems and software.
Also, implement a zero-trust model. Don’t automatically trust any device or user—verify everything. Use strong identity and access management (IAM) controls.
Prepare for defacement or misinformation attacks too. Make sure you have backups of your website and a quick recovery plan. Secure your domain settings and monitor for DNS hijacking.
Employees should be trained not just in phishing awareness, but also in recognizing strange website behavior or alerts that look legitimate but are part of a scam.
Iranian attackers may also target VPNs or remote access tools, so keep those locked down. MFA should be required, and logs should be regularly reviewed.
Respond fast to incidents. Iranian campaigns often try to do damage quickly. The sooner you spot an intrusion, the less harm it can cause.
6. India contributes to approximately 5% of phishing and malware attacks globally
India has a rapidly growing digital landscape, and with that growth comes an increase in cyberattack activity. Around 5% of global phishing and malware attacks can be traced back to this region.
These attacks are often financially motivated and may not always be highly sophisticated—but they can still cause significant damage.
The most common tactics include mass phishing emails, fake tech support scams, and malware-laced downloads. If you run a business or manage a website, you need to be cautious about user-generated content and external links.
Start with strong email filtering systems. These can block known phishing attempts and malicious attachments before they reach your inbox. Next, educate your team. People are often the weakest link. Regular phishing simulations can help train them to think twice before clicking.
If you allow file uploads on your site, scan everything with antivirus tools and sandbox unknown files. Don’t allow executable files unless absolutely necessary.
Another good step is to watch your traffic analytics. If you notice sudden traffic spikes from regions you don’t usually engage with, dig deeper. It might be someone probing for vulnerabilities or testing phishing pages.
Implement web application firewalls (WAFs) and secure your code. Many malware campaigns exploit common web vulnerabilities like SQL injection or cross-site scripting.
Lastly, use DNS filtering to prevent users from visiting known malicious sites. It’s a simple but powerful layer of defense.
7. Brazil is the leading source of cyberattacks in Latin America, accounting for 30% in the region
Brazil has a booming digital economy, but it’s also the leading source of cyberattacks in Latin America. Around 30% of all attacks in the region originate from within Brazil. Many of these threats are financially driven and focus on banking trojans, card skimming, and digital fraud.
If you operate in the region or serve Latin American customers, it’s critical to secure your financial interfaces. Brazilian attackers often focus on mobile users, so if you have a mobile app, invest in mobile-specific security testing.
Protecting payment gateways should be a top priority. Use tokenization and encryption to protect sensitive financial data. Monitor your system for unusual transaction patterns or login attempts.
Fake websites and phishing emails are also common tools. Always use domain monitoring to catch fake versions of your brand. Alert your customers when new threats are detected. Transparency builds trust.
If your company deals with e-commerce, watch for carding attacks. Limit the number of transactions per user and require additional verification for high-value purchases.
It also helps to engage with local cybersecurity organizations. They often provide updates specific to the region and are familiar with local threats.
8. Vietnam is one of the fastest-rising countries in terms of cyberattack origin
Vietnam has seen a steep rise in cyberattack activity over the last few years. The country is becoming a hotspot for both state-sponsored and financially motivated attacks. While it’s not in the top tier yet, the speed of growth is concerning.
Many attacks are focused on stealing data from companies in healthcare, telecom, and finance. If you’re in one of these sectors, don’t wait until you’re targeted—get ahead of it now.
Start by running penetration tests to see how your systems respond to real-world attacks. Vietnamese groups are known for persistent probing, so the goal is to detect and respond quickly.
Review who has access to what. Many breaches happen because someone had access they didn’t need. Clean up old user accounts and use role-based access control.
Vietnamese hackers have also been seen targeting supply chains. If you work with vendors or partners in the region, assess their cybersecurity practices. A weak vendor can become an open door into your own network.
Lastly, get serious about email security. Use DMARC, SPF, and DKIM protocols to protect your domain from spoofing. These simple steps can prevent fake emails from damaging your brand and stealing login info.
9. Ukraine was the source of over 5% of advanced persistent threat (APT) activity in 2023
Ukraine is not only a frequent victim of cyberattacks—it has also become a surprising source of advanced persistent threat (APT) activity. In 2023, over 5% of global APT events were traced back to Ukrainian networks, often involving sophisticated espionage or disruption campaigns.
What makes APTs dangerous is their patience. They sneak into your system and quietly collect data for weeks or even months before you notice anything. If your organization handles valuable data, intellectual property, or strategic plans, you should consider yourself a potential target.
Start by improving visibility. Deploy tools that can track user behavior, flag anomalies, and identify hidden patterns. Endpoint detection is key here.
Don’t rely on antivirus software alone. APTs often bypass traditional tools. Consider advanced threat detection platforms that use AI and behavioral analytics.
Also, inspect your outbound traffic. APTs frequently exfiltrate data slowly to avoid detection. If you see a steady drip of data leaving your network, it might be a sign of something serious.
Establish internal controls for critical data access. Not everyone needs to read, download, or modify sensitive files. Every extra layer you add makes it harder for an attacker to succeed.
And finally, document your incident response plan. If an APT is found in your system, every minute counts. Having a clear step-by-step plan can help you react fast and minimize damage.
10. 70% of cyberattacks from Russia target critical infrastructure in NATO countries
A staggering 70% of Russian cyberattacks are directed at critical infrastructure in NATO countries. This includes utilities, healthcare, government services, and transportation systems. These attacks are often strategic, designed to cause disruption or even panic.
If your company supports critical infrastructure or provides digital services to governments, you’re a likely target. The consequences of failure in these industries are serious—so your cybersecurity plan must be airtight.
First, review your infrastructure from top to bottom. What systems absolutely cannot go down? Protect those with the most advanced defenses available. Consider air-gapping systems when possible.
Conduct regular red team exercises. These are simulations where ethical hackers try to break into your systems. They help you see where the real holes are.
Also, get familiar with threat-hunting. This means proactively searching your systems for signs of attackers, even if nothing looks wrong. It’s a high-level skill, but one worth investing in.
Be ready for misinformation too. Cyberattacks on infrastructure often go hand in hand with false news or digital propaganda. Build a communication plan to protect your reputation if something goes wrong.
Finally, work with your local government or national cybersecurity center. Share threat intelligence and stay ahead of coordinated attacks.
11. Over 60% of ransomware attacks trace back to Russia-based groups
More than 60% of ransomware attacks around the world are linked to Russian hacking groups. These actors are highly organized, often operate like businesses, and even offer “ransomware-as-a-service” to others. The primary goal is always financial gain, and they target companies of all sizes.
Ransomware doesn’t just lock your data—it can shut down your operations completely. Whether you’re a startup or a global enterprise, the damage can be devastating, both financially and in terms of reputation.
The first and most important step is regular, tested backups. Backups should be kept offline or in isolated networks. And it’s not enough to just have them—test them. Make sure you can actually restore your systems from them in an emergency.
Next, harden your remote access. Many ransomware attacks start when someone logs in through an exposed remote desktop connection. Disable RDP unless it’s absolutely needed, and restrict access using firewalls and IP whitelisting.
Email is another common entry point. Invest in an email security solution that catches ransomware attachments and malicious links. Educate your team not to open unexpected files, even if they seem to come from trusted sources.
Use endpoint protection tools with real-time monitoring. These tools can stop a ransomware infection before it spreads across your network.
Have a response plan in place. Know who to call, what steps to take, and whether your company’s policy is to negotiate or not. Time is critical in a ransomware situation, and panic is not a strategy.
12. China-origin attacks often target intellectual property and military secrets
China’s cyberattack focus tends to lean heavily toward acquiring knowledge—especially intellectual property (IP) and military secrets. Companies in sectors like defense, engineering, and pharmaceuticals are high-priority targets.
If you’re innovating anything—new technology, patented systems, or proprietary processes—assume someone wants to steal it. That includes startups. Small businesses often think they’re too insignificant to be targeted. They’re not.
Protecting intellectual property begins with understanding where it lives. Is it in cloud storage? Local servers? Employee laptops? Once you identify that, encrypt everything. Encryption makes stolen data useless to attackers.
Limit who can access your sensitive data. If five people need it, don’t give access to fifty. Create strict access controls and audit who logs in and when. Regularly remove users who no longer need access.
If you use contractors or third-party vendors, make sure their systems are secure too. Supply chain attacks are becoming more common and are a backdoor into your network.
Invest in advanced intrusion detection systems. These can help flag strange activity, like someone downloading files at odd hours or from unexpected locations.
Lastly, involve legal. If your business involves patents or trade secrets, consult your IP attorneys about how to document and defend your innovations in the event of data theft.
13. 85% of North Korean cyber activity is financially motivated, targeting crypto exchanges
North Korean cyber groups have one clear mission: to bring money into the country. About 85% of their cyberattacks aim at financial targets, with a huge focus on cryptocurrency platforms. Unlike traditional bank thefts, crypto is harder to trace and can be laundered quickly.
If you’re running a crypto exchange, wallet service, or even just dealing with digital assets, you’re in the crosshairs. And the attacks aren’t always technical—they often start with social engineering or fake job offers to employees.
You need to secure both your technology and your people. First, segment your wallet systems. Hot wallets should have limited funds and be separated from main reserves. Use multi-signature wallets to make unauthorized transactions nearly impossible.
Monitor transactions in real-time. Set up alerts for suspicious withdrawals, especially after hours or from new IPs. You should also implement rate limits and geofencing to restrict access from risky regions.
Next, focus on employee awareness. Educate your team about fake LinkedIn job messages and phishing emails. Encourage them to report anything unusual without fear of punishment.
Regular audits are a must. Use third-party firms to test your defenses. The quicker you find your weak spots, the better you can patch them before someone else does.
North Korean attackers are persistent and patient. Your defenses need to be both strong and adaptable.
14. The U.S. is a base for a large number of botnet attacks due to compromised systems
The U.S. isn’t just a top target—it’s also a top source of cyberattacks, largely because of botnets. These are networks of compromised devices, like personal computers or servers, that are hijacked by attackers and used to launch attacks elsewhere.
Most of the time, device owners have no idea their systems are infected. But if your servers or workstations are part of a botnet, they can be blacklisted, your bandwidth can be drained, and your brand reputation can suffer.
So how do you avoid becoming a silent helper in someone else’s attack?
First, lock down your endpoints. This includes desktops, laptops, servers, and even IoT devices. Install antivirus and anti-malware tools that scan regularly and receive automatic updates.
Set your firewall rules carefully. Block incoming traffic from ports and services you don’t use. The fewer entry points, the better.
Keep everything updated. Most botnet malware spreads through known vulnerabilities that were patched months—or even years—ago. Patch early, patch often.
Also, monitor your outbound traffic. If your system starts sending huge amounts of data to strange countries, something’s wrong. Alert your IT team immediately.
Disconnect old devices from the network if they’re no longer in use. They’re easy targets for attackers to exploit as botnet nodes.
Finally, educate your users. Many botnet infections start when someone clicks a bad link or installs a shady browser plugin.
15. 25% of credential-stuffing attacks come from India
India is responsible for about a quarter of global credential-stuffing attacks. These attacks use stolen username-password pairs, often from past data breaches, to try and break into accounts elsewhere.
Credential stuffing is cheap, fast, and can be automated. If your users don’t use strong or unique passwords, you’re at risk—even if your own systems haven’t been breached.
To protect your business, start by enforcing strong password policies. Require longer passwords that include upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. But don’t stop there.
Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all customer and employee accounts. Even if a password is correct, the extra verification step adds strong protection.
Set up detection for brute-force and credential-stuffing activity. This includes multiple failed login attempts from a single IP or a sudden spike in login attempts across many accounts.
Use tools that block known malicious IP addresses and geolocate traffic to spot suspicious behavior.
Lastly, consider investing in credential monitoring services. These scan the dark web and alert you if your users’ information shows up in known data dumps.
Your goal is to make account takeover so difficult that attackers move on to easier targets.
16. Iran-linked APTs frequently target Middle Eastern energy sectors
Advanced persistent threats (APTs) linked to Iran are often focused on a very specific goal: disrupting or spying on energy infrastructure, especially within the Middle East.
These attacks are calculated, long-term operations that aim to either damage critical systems or steal sensitive industrial information.
If your business operates in oil, gas, utilities, or supports energy providers—either directly or indirectly—you need to take these threats seriously.
First, understand that these attackers often use spear-phishing to get initial access. They study their targets, impersonate known contacts, and use carefully crafted emails to deliver malware. Train your staff—especially executives and engineers—to be highly cautious of unexpected emails or document requests.
Next, secure your industrial control systems (ICS) and SCADA networks. These are often outdated and lack basic security controls. Segment them from your main IT network. Where possible, disconnect them from the internet entirely or tightly restrict access.
Invest in network anomaly detection tools. Iranian APTs often move laterally once inside your system. These tools can flag unusual internal activity before damage is done.
Also, pay close attention to patching third-party software used in your industrial systems. Attackers often exploit old or unpatched platforms that suppliers may have forgotten.
Finally, create and rehearse your incident response plans. If a disruption occurs, your team needs to know how to quickly isolate the issue, restore operations, and communicate with stakeholders and regulators.
17. Turkey has seen a 200% increase in outgoing cyberattack traffic over the last 5 years
Turkey is emerging as a growing source of cyber threats. A 200% increase in outbound attack traffic over five years indicates rising hacker activity, whether it’s politically motivated, financially driven, or part of underground operations.
If you operate in or near Turkey—or serve Turkish users—this trend should prompt immediate attention. Attacks from this region can vary from DDoS attacks to defacement, phishing, and brute force attempts.
One of the first things to do is geo-monitor your traffic. If you notice an unusual spike in connections from Turkey or surrounding regions, investigate. Use traffic shaping and rate limiting to slow down potential DDoS attempts.
Check the security of your public-facing apps. Turkish hackers often target websites with outdated CMS platforms, vulnerable plugins, or exposed APIs. If you’re using WordPress, Joomla, or similar tools, keep them updated. Run regular vulnerability scans and remove any unused features or themes.
Limit login attempts and use CAPTCHA on all public forms to block brute-force bots. Monitor log files daily for spikes in login failures or POST requests to login URLs.
And finally, don’t overlook your social media accounts. Website defacement often starts with compromised admin accounts used for branding. Use strong passwords and 2FA on everything.
18. South Korea reports that over 90% of attempted breaches come from North Korea
South Korea is under constant digital assault from its neighbor to the north. Over 90% of cyberattack attempts reported in South Korea trace back to North Korean sources. These attacks span espionage, ransomware, disruption campaigns, and intellectual property theft.
Even if you’re not based in South Korea, you should take note—many North Korean cyber tools and methods are reused globally. If your business operates in defense, media, finance, or technology, you may be on their radar.
Start with basic security hygiene. Update your systems, segment your networks, and enforce MFA across all access points.
North Korean groups often target personal devices of high-value employees. Enforce mobile device management (MDM) policies and restrict personal device access to sensitive systems. Regularly audit devices for unknown apps or suspicious behavior.
They’re also known for highly convincing phishing campaigns. Use advanced email filters, and train your staff to recognize the red flags—especially messages that create urgency or come from spoofed addresses.
Monitor your systems for unusual access times or logins from unfamiliar geolocations. Even if the credentials are correct, unusual patterns can give away an intruder’s presence.
And most importantly, keep leadership involved. The more visible the threat is to decision-makers, the more quickly your company can respond and invest in effective defenses.
19. Indonesia is in the top 10 countries for malware distribution
Indonesia’s cyber landscape has become more active, especially in spreading malware globally. It now ranks in the top 10 for malware origin, with attackers using infected websites, torrents, and cracked software downloads to spread malicious code.
The challenge here is twofold. First, businesses can unknowingly become hosts for malware distribution. Second, employees might download infected files from compromised Indonesian sites.
If you operate a website or manage content platforms, regularly scan your systems for malware. This includes files uploaded by users, embedded scripts, and third-party plugins. Use file integrity monitoring and sandbox analysis.
Educate employees about the dangers of downloading pirated software or media. These often contain trojans or ransomware bundled in.
Use DNS filtering to block access to known malicious domains, and consider disabling downloads from high-risk regions unless necessary for your business.
Track outbound traffic patterns. If your system starts contacting suspicious IPs or sending data without a clear reason, it may be part of a botnet or malware campaign.
Lastly, report malicious domains and work with your hosting provider to take quick action if your systems are compromised.
20. Nigeria is a global hotspot for business email compromise (BEC) scams
Nigeria is notorious for business email compromise (BEC) scams. These are not just spam emails—they are targeted, strategic, and often devastating. The scam involves impersonating executives or vendors to trick employees into transferring money or revealing sensitive information.
BEC attacks don’t rely on malware. They rely on trust. That makes them harder to detect and stop using traditional tools.
Start by creating a clear process for financial transactions. No single person should have full authority to approve or send payments. Implement dual approval for wire transfers and vendor changes.
Use email authentication tools like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. These help verify whether an email truly comes from the sender it claims to be.
Train employees to spot signs of impersonation. Common red flags include urgent requests, changes to payment details, and unusual language or tone.
Encourage a culture where employees feel comfortable verifying odd requests—even if it’s supposedly from the CEO. A quick phone call can save thousands of dollars.
Lastly, simulate BEC attacks as part of your security training. The more familiar your team is with these tactics, the less likely they’ll fall for them.
21. Eastern Europe is responsible for over 20% of global financial cyber fraud
Eastern Europe has become a major source of financial cyber fraud, responsible for more than 20% of such attacks worldwide.
These operations often involve skilled criminal groups that specialize in identity theft, card fraud, and online banking scams. They’re not just targeting banks—they’re going after retailers, fintech platforms, and even small e-commerce stores.
If your business handles online payments or stores financial information, you’re at risk. These fraud groups are experts at blending in with real users, making their attacks hard to detect.
Start by using behavior-based fraud detection systems. These tools can track how users interact with your website or app and flag unusual patterns—like rapid-fire purchases, odd login locations, or use of anonymizing tools.
Tokenize sensitive customer data. That way, even if attackers breach your systems, they won’t find usable credit card numbers or payment details.
Monitor login activity closely. Require additional verification for high-value transactions or account changes. And never allow password resets without confirming the user’s identity through another secure channel.
Also, watch for “money mule” activity—accounts created just to funnel stolen funds. These often have minimal profile details and fast activity soon after sign-up. Flag and review them early.
Lastly, partner with fraud intel networks or consortiums. They share indicators of fraud in real time, helping you stay one step ahead of these highly organized groups.
22. 80% of Chinese cyberattacks involve some form of state sponsorship or support
It’s estimated that 80% of cyberattacks coming from China involve either direct state sponsorship or state-sanctioned groups. These actors are not lone wolves—they’re highly trained, well-funded, and often operate under official programs targeting foreign institutions, governments, and corporations.
These types of attacks aren’t about quick money. They’re about long-term strategic advantage. If you’re in a field like semiconductors, biotech, clean energy, or defense, you’re a potential target—even if your company is small.
The goal of these attackers is usually data theft, surveillance, or disruption. They’ll often try to stay hidden for as long as possible.
To protect yourself, start with strong endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems. These can catch attackers who are trying to quietly navigate your network.
Use role-based access controls and audit privileges often. Even administrators should not have unlimited access to every part of the system unless absolutely necessary.
Monitor for unusual patterns of data movement. State-sponsored groups often steal data in chunks over time to avoid detection. If you see unusual file transfers during off-hours or to strange domains, act fast.
Also, encrypt your sensitive data both at rest and in transit. Even if stolen, it won’t be readable without the right keys.
Finally, engage with cyber threat intelligence providers. They often have early indicators of state-sponsored campaigns, and knowing what’s coming gives you a chance to reinforce your defenses.
23. The U.S. ranks third globally in command-and-control (C2) server locations
Command-and-control servers (C2s) are the backbone of most modern cyberattacks. They’re used by hackers to communicate with infected systems, send commands, and extract data. Surprisingly, the U.S. ranks third in the world for hosting these C2 servers.
This doesn’t mean American hackers are behind all the attacks—it means attackers prefer using U.S.-based infrastructure because it’s fast, reliable, and less likely to be blocked.
If you run servers, web hosting, or cloud systems in the U.S., be aware that your infrastructure could be hijacked to host a C2 server. That could put you on a blacklist and damage your reputation.
First, regularly monitor your systems for abnormal outbound connections. Look for traffic going to rare IPs, unknown ports, or domains that don’t match your business activity.
Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to scan traffic for patterns that match known C2 activity.
If you allow remote access or SSH, lock it down. Use MFA, rotate credentials often, and whitelist IP addresses where possible.
And finally, respond to abuse reports quickly. If someone flags your system as a C2 host, take immediate action. Delays could result in your servers being blocked by ISPs and cybersecurity tools worldwide.
24. Nearly 50% of all phishing sites are hosted in the U.S., though not necessarily operated by Americans
Almost half of the world’s phishing websites are hosted on servers in the United States. This doesn’t mean Americans are running them—it’s just that the U.S. offers fast and cheap hosting services that attackers love to abuse.
That creates a double risk. You might accidentally host a phishing site without knowing, or your brand could be spoofed on a phishing site hosted nearby.
First, if you’re a hosting provider or manage servers, scan them often for suspicious files or unauthorized domains. Automated tools can crawl your hosted domains and detect common phishing kits.
Use a reputable domain registrar that offers fraud monitoring services. These can alert you if your company’s name or logo shows up in newly registered phishing domains.
If your brand is impersonated in a phishing attack, act fast. Contact the hosting provider, report the domain, and initiate takedown procedures. The quicker you respond, the fewer victims get hurt.
You can also publish a DMARC policy to prevent email spoofing. Combined with SPF and DKIM, it tells email servers to reject fake messages pretending to be from you.
Educate your customers, too. Provide clear instructions on how to verify real emails or websites, and offer a reporting channel for suspicious activity.
25. Belarus has been linked to several cyber espionage campaigns targeting the EU
Belarus has emerged as a quiet player in the cyber espionage game. Though not as prolific as Russia or China, Belarusian-linked groups have been tied to several attacks targeting European Union institutions, defense contractors, and telecoms.
These operations often focus on stealing sensitive political, economic, or industrial data. If your business deals with cross-border policy, defense, or high-level partnerships in Europe, this trend should be on your radar.
What makes Belarusian espionage unique is their use of decoy documents, fake updates, and social engineering to lure users into installing spyware.
Start by training employees on how to recognize fake document download prompts and suspicious requests to enable macros in Word or Excel files. Many attacks start this way.
Keep your operating systems and software fully updated. Attackers from this region often exploit old vulnerabilities in browsers, plugins, and PDF readers.
Watch for strange process activity on workstations, such as unknown scripts running in the background or systems reaching out to odd web domains. This could be spyware phoning home.
If you handle EU-sensitive projects, consider isolating them in a separate, more secure environment. Limiting who can access that data—and from where—can stop a breach before it starts.
Finally, share threat intelligence with partners. Attacks on one company often spread to related entities quickly.
26. Germany sees 30% of its incoming cyberattacks from neighboring European countries
Germany, as one of Europe’s largest economies, faces constant cyber pressure. Interestingly, about 30% of its incoming cyberattacks come from neighboring countries within Europe.
These are not always sophisticated state-sponsored campaigns—many involve freelance hackers, organized crime, or politically motivated groups.
For German businesses, especially those in manufacturing, finance, and tech, this means that proximity doesn’t equal safety. Regional actors know the language, the digital infrastructure, and often the regulatory gaps. That gives them an edge.
Start by tightening regional network controls. Monitor for unusual traffic from nearby countries, especially countries with rising cybercrime rates. Geo-IP tracking and traffic analytics can help you spot the difference between genuine users and potential attackers.
Be especially cautious with shared infrastructure. Many German companies partner with European vendors, and these relationships can be a weak point. Demand high security standards from any partner who has access to your systems.
Also, watch for internal threats. Regional attackers may collaborate with insiders or exploit weak access policies. Perform regular audits of user access, especially for employees working remotely or across borders.
Make it routine to review your compliance posture. Being in Europe means GDPR and other strict regulations—but it also means attackers may exploit loopholes before you patch them. Stay ahead of the minimum requirements.
Lastly, coordinate with local CERTs (Computer Emergency Response Teams). They can help you respond faster and understand what’s trending in your region.
27. Israel, though primarily a target, has also been the source of state-level cyber operations
Israel is well known for its defensive cyber capabilities, but it’s also one of the few nations that openly invests in offensive cyber operations.
While much of the focus is on protection, Israeli state-linked cyber groups have conducted strategic operations abroad, typically targeting adversaries in the Middle East and beyond.
These campaigns are surgical—targeting specific individuals, organizations, or critical infrastructure for intelligence gathering or preemptive disruption.
If you’re in a politically sensitive sector or deal with Middle East diplomacy, energy, or defense, there’s a chance your systems could be of interest to Israeli actors—or those using similar tactics.
Unlike large-scale phishing campaigns, these operations often start with zero-day vulnerabilities or extremely targeted social engineering. They don’t cast a wide net—they aim for a specific catch.
To protect yourself, enforce strict security policies for high-level users. Executives and department heads are often targeted first. Use encrypted communication, limit public exposure of personal emails or phone numbers, and implement regular device checks.
Monitor all third-party apps or tools integrated into your infrastructure. Israeli-developed spyware, such as Pegasus, has famously used mobile vulnerabilities and app exploits.
Build security into your legal and IT procurement workflows. Know where your software and services come from, and conduct security reviews of vendors or applications you rely on.
Staying alert isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about staying smart in a world where even the best defenders can also play offense.
28. Pakistan has seen a 150% increase in cyberattack origin reports in the last 3 years
In the past three years, Pakistan has seen a 150% rise in reported cyberattacks originating from within its borders. While not always state-backed, these attacks are often political, targeting government agencies, media outlets, and regional businesses.
What’s more concerning is that many of these attacks are being carried out using widely available tools and techniques—meaning even relatively unskilled attackers can cause real harm.
For companies operating in South Asia, or doing business with partners in Pakistan, this spike should prompt a review of your threat exposure.
First, examine your email and communication systems. Many attacks from this region involve phishing, spoofed government messages, or malware-laced attachments. Use secure gateways and deploy sandbox environments to test suspicious files before they reach users.
Implement strict password hygiene and enforce MFA for all users. Credential stuffing and brute force login attempts are on the rise, and basic account protections can block many of these efforts.
Also, audit your content management systems and public-facing websites. Defacement is a common attack form used in politically motivated hacks.
Log and monitor network activity closely. A sudden connection to a new IP range or a download spike could signal trouble. Have alerts configured for both inbound and outbound anomalies.
And as always, educate your employees. Make sure they know how to report suspicious emails or website behavior quickly, so your response can be immediate.
29. France is among the top 10 countries in terms of C2 server infrastructure
France’s high-quality hosting and network infrastructure have inadvertently made it a popular location for command-and-control (C2) servers used by cybercriminals around the world.
While not always operated by French nationals, these servers facilitate malware distribution, botnet communication, and data exfiltration.
For businesses hosting servers in France, or relying on French data centers, there’s a risk of association with bad actors. If your IP addresses or domains are blacklisted due to proximity to C2 servers, your business may suffer from reputation or delivery issues.
The solution starts with better server monitoring. Don’t just secure your own apps—monitor for any unfamiliar files, unauthorized ports, or unexplained outbound connections.
If you manage hosting environments, enforce strict policies on customer identity verification. Many attackers choose regions like France for hosting because they can sign up anonymously or with fake documents.
Use firewalls to restrict communication with known C2 domains. Subscribe to threat intelligence feeds to automatically update those blocklists in real time.
Keep your systems and control panels (like cPanel or Plesk) updated, as attackers often exploit outdated control software to install C2 components.
Finally, collaborate with your hosting provider to set alerts and thresholds for traffic that deviates from normal patterns. Early detection can stop your server from being used to harm others.
30. Saudi Arabia has experienced a spike in outbound cyberattacks linked to hacktivist groups
Saudi Arabia, traditionally more often a cyber target, has recently become a source of outbound attacks driven by local hacktivist groups. These attackers are usually motivated by political, religious, or social causes, and their targets range from foreign government websites to international media outlets.
Hacktivism may not always aim for money—it aims to make a point. That can mean data leaks, DDoS attacks, or defacements, all of which can still cause serious damage to the target.
If you operate a platform with a strong media presence, political angle, or controversial content, be mindful of hacktivist attention. These groups often select their targets based on ideology, not profit.
Use a CDN with DDoS protection built in. That way, even if traffic surges from Saudi-origin IPs, your site won’t go down.
Secure your web forms and comment systems. Hacktivists sometimes exploit these to inject code or spam offensive messages. Rate-limit all input fields and scan user-generated content.
Monitor social media and dark web forums for mentions of your brand, especially around hot-button issues. Early signs of targeting can come from these platforms before any attack occurs.
Finally, review your legal and PR responses. If your site or systems are affected by hacktivism, be ready to communicate transparently, minimize impact, and restore trust with your users quickly.
wrapping it up
Cyber threats don’t come from one place—they come from everywhere. From China’s state-sponsored espionage to Nigerian financial scams, every region brings its own unique risks. Understanding where attacks originate and what tactics are most common is your first step toward building smarter defenses.
