Definition of Formjacking

Formjacking is a type of cyberattack where malicious code is injected into online forms to steal sensitive information. When users enter their details, such as credit card numbers or personal identification information, the injected code captures this data and sends it to the attacker. This method of data theft is particularly insidious because it often goes undetected until significant damage has been done. The stolen information can then be sold on the dark web or used to commit further crimes like identity theft or financial fraud.

Origin of Formjacking

The concept of formjacking isn't entirely new but has evolved with the sophistication of cyber threats. Initially, similar tactics were used in simpler forms, such as skimming data from websites. However, as online transactions became more common, so did the opportunity for cybercriminals to exploit these interactions. The term "formjacking" gained prominence as major incidents began to surface, particularly in the late 2010s. High-profile attacks on well-known companies highlighted the effectiveness and stealth of this method, pushing it into the spotlight within the cybersecurity community.

Practical Application of Formjacking

A notable example of formjacking is the attack on the British Airways website in 2018. Cybercriminals injected malicious code into the airline's payment page, allowing them to intercept and steal customer payment details. This breach affected around 380,000 transactions, causing significant financial and reputational damage to British Airways. The attackers targeted the form where customers entered their payment information, demonstrating the ease with which formjacking can be executed and the potential scale of its impact. This incident underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity measures for protecting customer data during online transactions.

Benefits of Formjacking

While formjacking itself is a criminal activity, understanding its mechanics and prevalence has several benefits for businesses and consumers. For businesses, recognizing the threat of formjacking prompts the implementation of advanced security measures such as regular code audits, stronger encryption, and the use of Content Security Policies (CSPs) to prevent unauthorized code execution. Consumers, on the other hand, become more aware of the potential risks of online transactions and can take precautions like using virtual credit cards or trusted payment gateways. Additionally, raising awareness about formjacking contributes to the broader effort of improving cybersecurity literacy and vigilance among internet users.

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