As with many other types of cybercrime, criminals use DDoS for a variety of reasons, including:
Competition – old fashioned competition could be a reason why some businesses experience frequent DDoS attacks. In fact, around 40% of businesses are convinced that competitors are involved in launching attacks against them.
Hacktivism or politics – activists can use DDoS attacks to bring down websites, businesses or organisations they don’t agree with for ethical or political reasons.
Revenge – angry ex-employees are sometimes behind DDoS attacks.
Extortion – DDoS attacks can be hugely disruptive, to end the attack or minimise the damage, criminals could demand a ransom.
Smokescreen – in some cases, DDoS attacks act as a distraction while hackers carry out other criminal activities.
Fun – not all cyberattacks are launched by master criminals, some hackers might simply see it as a bit of fun.