There are a number of ways in which a site’s security may be broached. We’re going to explain some of the most frequently occurring ones and the potential threats they pose to your site here: SQL injections SQL injections involve the use of search query language (a type of computer code) to take control of a database and extract sensitive information. Such an attack can also be used to edit, modify or delete information within a database, and may even be used to retrieve passwords or user information. Ransomware Ransomware is a form of malicious software used to infect computers. Once uploaded it can block access to files, systems, software and applications. Hackers then demand a ransom from the affected user, and once paid, the computer and related files are decrypted and the ransomware removed. Cross-site scripting (XSS) A cross-site scripting attack occurs when malicious javascript code is injected through a trusted website into a user's browser. This type of attack works similarly to an SQL injection attack and preys on the inability of browsers to differentiate between malicious and harmless markup text. Browsers simply render whatever text they receive, regardless of its intent. Credential reuse When user credentials are stolen, it can impact more than just your website. They can be used to access multiple sites where the same credentials apply and create damage that extends across many websites at once. DoS/DDoS attacks DoS (denial of service) attacks aim to interrupt the functionality and usability of a website. One of the most common forms is a “distributed denial of service” (DDoS) attack. This is when a bot sends huge amounts of fake traffic to a website from multiple sources in an attempt to overload the server. Impact of website security breaches Cyber attacks can have significant, lasting effects on the functionality and performance of your site. In the short term, they can limit traffic growth and conversions. In the long term, they can damage your brand identity and business reputation. Some of the most significant impacts of security breaches include: Customer churn Users need to know their data is safe in order to trust and use your website, and come back as repeating customers. It is important users trust your site, in order to click on a CTA or make a purchase. Malicious attacks which lead to the loss of customer’s credentials and sensitive information will undoubtedly affect how your site and business are perceived. Search engine blacklisting Search engine blacklisting can be a very harmful consequence of a site security breach. If Google crawls a website and finds malware or malicious code, it may decide to black list the affected site, making it more difficult to find in search. In turn this can also lead to dramatic traffic drops, and have a negative impact on a site's ability to generate and retain customers. Site suspension Security attacks can suspend crucial site services, such as login, signups and shopping functions. Consequently, this can make it difficult for users to interact with your site. Since malware is costly to remove and time consuming to fix, it’s much better to pre-empt security attacks with a strong website security plan, than to deal with their aftermath.