What is the most common type of attacks against computer systems?

The most common type of attacks against computer systems is malware. Malware encompasses a wide range of malicious software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. This category includes viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware, among others. Malware can be delivered through various means, such as infected email attachments, downloads from untrusted sources, or vulnerabilities in software applications, making it highly prevalent.

The sheer variety of malware and its methods of distribution contribute significantly to its commonality in cyberattacks. Once malware infiltrates a system, it can perform various harmful actions, such as stealing sensitive information, encrypting files for ransom, or creating backdoors for further exploitation.

While other types of attacks, such as SQL injection or phishing, are indeed significant threats, they tend to be more specialized. SQL injection targets specific databases by exploiting vulnerabilities in SQL queries, and phishing is primarily focused on deceiving individuals to disclose personal information. Zero-day attacks refer specifically to exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities before a patch is available. These methods can be effective in certain scenarios but generally do not match the overall prevalence of malware attacks in the broader landscape of cybersecurity threats.