A recent study by NetworkBuildz has revealed the states that are most vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The study collected data from the FBI’s Internet Crime Reports over the past five years and adjusted it for population to determine the frequency of cyber crime in each state.
The study found that Mississippi had the lowest risk of cyber crime, with only 10,227 total cyber attacks reported from 2018 to 2022, equivalent to about 345 cyber crimes per 100,000 people. On the other hand, Nevada had the highest rate of cyber crimes, with 1,756 crimes reported for every 100,000 people.
Indiana, not far from the bottom of the list, had the 11th highest rate of cyber crimes, with 741 crimes reported per 100,000 residents. This indicates that the state is at a higher risk for cyber-attacks compared to many others.
The list of states at risk for cyber-attacks is as follows:
1. Mississippi – 345
2. North Dakota – 395
3. Kansas – 429
4. Louisiana – 449
5. Arkansas – 455
6. Maine – 457
7. West Virginia – 458
8. Nebraska – 463
9. North Carolina – 468
10. Oklahoma – 470
11. Indiana – 741
12. Minnesota – 477
13. South Dakota – 491
14. Tennessee – 492
15. Alabama – 492
16. Idaho – 494
17. Montana – 505
18. Vermont – 514
19. New Hampshire – 518
20. Ohio – 523
21. Michigan – 524
22. Georgia – 530
23. South Carolina – 533
24. Kentucky – 535
25. Hawaii – 535
26. Rhode Island – 550
27. Pennsylvania – 554
28. Illinois – 573
29. Massachusetts – 585
30. Missouri – 585
31. Texas – 587
32. New Mexico – 606
33. Utah – 606
34. New Jersey – 613
35. Wyoming – 617
36. Connecticut – 621
37. New York – 635
38. Wisconsin – 642
39. Oregon – 652
40. Virginia – 740
41. Arizona – 746
42. California – 801
43. Delaware – 874
44. Washington – 875
45. Iowa – 886
46. Florida – 899
47. Colorado – 928
48. Maryland – 951
49. Alaska – 1,153
50. Nevada – 1,756
The study serves as a warning for residents and businesses in states with high cyber crime rates to be vigilant against cyber-attacks, and to take the necessary precautions to protect their sensitive information.
It is important to be aware of the various forms of cyber crime, which includes business email compromise, identity theft, ransomware, and spoofing and phishing schemes. These are frequently listed as common cyber crimes on the FBI’s website. Understanding these crimes can help individuals and organizations recognize the signs of a potential cyber-attack and take action to prevent them.
For those who suspect they have been the victim of a cyber crime, it is important to know how to report it. The FBI’s website provides information on how to respond and report possible cyber crime incidents, ensuring that appropriate action can be taken to address the issue.
Overall, the study’s findings shed light on the prevalence of cyber attacks across different states and emphasize the need for ongoing awareness and vigilance to protect against these crimes. As technology continues to advance, the risk of cyber-attacks is likely to increase, making it crucial for individuals and organizations to stay informed and proactive in their efforts to prevent and address cyber crime.