How Hackers Pick Their Targets
Why No One Is Too Small to Attack
Cybercriminals aren't always looking for "big fish." In fact, small businesses, home users, and everyday individuals are often easier, faster, and more profitable targets.
Learn how hackers choose who to attack — and how you can make yourself a much harder target.
How do hackers choose their targets?
Hackers typically look for:
Weak defenses
Outdated software, weak passwords, lack of security tools
Valuable data
Personal information, financial records, business files
Easy access
Unprotected Wi-Fi networks, unpatched systems, open accounts
Sometimes it's strategic. Often, it's simply about who’s easiest to break into.
Why would a hacker target me or my small business?
- Small businesses often lack full cybersecurity teams, making them attractive.
- Individuals often underestimate their risk, leaving basic protections off.
- Hackers know smaller targets are less likely to have the resources for rapid response or recovery.
- Every stolen identity, hacked account, or breached network can be sold or used for profit.
- You're not "too small" to matter. You're just the right size to exploit.
What makes someone an attractive target for hackers?
- Using weak, repeated passwords across multiple accounts
- Not using two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Running outdated software or operating systems
- Publicly oversharing personal or business information online
- Ignoring cybersecurity best practices (no EDR, no backups, no monitoring)
- Hackers aren't picky. They go after whoever makes it easiest.
Do hackers target random people or specific victims?
Both.
- Random attacks: Phishing campaigns, malware spam, ransomware attacks cast wide nets.
- Targeted attacks: High-value individuals (executives, business owners, public figures) can face spear phishing and customized scams.
- Most people are hit by broad attacks simply because they are vulnerable, not because they were individually chosen.
How do hackers find personal information about their targets?
- Dark web data breaches (emails, passwords, addresses)
- Social media profiles (birthdays, family details, habits)
- Company websites and staff directories
- Public records databases
- Phishing emails that gather more data for future attacks
- Hackers love when you overshare online — it makes their job easy.
What types of businesses or individuals do cybercriminals prefer to target?
- Small and medium businesses with customer data
- Tax preparers and financial professionals
- Healthcare providers handling patient information
- Home users with valuable personal and financial accounts
- Anyone with poor cybersecurity hygiene
- If you handle data, you’re a target. If you have money, you’re a target. If you have access to others, you’re a target.
How can I avoid becoming a target for hackers?
- Use strong, unique passwords for every account
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Regularly update your devices and software
- Deploy Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) for modern threat protection
- Backup critical data securely and often
- Stay alert to phishing emails and scams
- Limit personal information sharing online
- Cybersecurity isn't about being "invisible" — it's about being too difficult to bother with.
How Bellator Cyber Helps Protect You
Bellator Cyber provides advanced, accessible cybersecurity solutions that harden your defenses and make you a far less appealing target for cybercriminals.
Ready to Make Yourself a Hard Target?
Learn how Bellator Cyber can fortify your defenses and give you peace of mind.
