In Spain it is no longer unusual to have one or more computers at homeAnd a large part of our lives revolves around them: work, leisure, banking, online shopping, social media… What were once simple office tools have become the center of our digital lives, and that also makes them a very attractive target for cybercriminals.
That's why understanding is key. What types of cyberattacks are hitting Spain hard?Why your Windows PC (especially if you're still using Windows 10) might be a target, and what specific measures you can take to make things very difficult for attackers. It's not about living in fear, but about accepting that, just as you lock your front door, you need several layers of protection online.
Cyberattacks in Spain: the current situation and why it matters if you use Windows
In recent years, the data on cybersecurity in Spain is quite clear: Tens of thousands of incidents are handled each yearIn a recent exercise alone, INCIBE recorded almost 97.350 cybersecurity incidents, of which more than 31.540 directly affected companies of all types: large companies, SMEs, micro-enterprises and the self-employed.
In addition, more than 183.800 vulnerable systemsThat is, exposed equipment or services with vulnerabilities that an attacker can exploit. In addition, according to data from Check Point Research, companies in Spain are suffering around 1.950 attempted attacks per week On average. That's almost 2.000 weekly attacks trying to slip through any crack.
In this context, the situation of Windows is especially delicate. Windows 10 will stop receiving free security updates Starting October 14, 2025, the system will continue to function, but it will no longer receive free security patches. This means that, over time, any new vulnerabilities discovered will go unpatched, making your computer increasingly vulnerable to attack.
Cybercriminals often focus on widely used systems with end-of-support, because they know that If the system stops being patched, each new flaw is a door left open.If you continue using Windows 10 after that date, or any unsupported version, you'll need to take extra precautions or, better yet, plan ahead. migration to Windows 11 or another system with active support.
What is a cyberattack and why can anyone be a target?
A cyberattack is, basically, an attempt to disable systems, steal data, or use your devices to attack othersIt can range from a simple virus that slows down your PC to a ransomware campaign that encrypts all your files and demands money in exchange for the key to recover them.
The big problem is the imbalance: the defender must protect all possible entry points (computers, mobile phones, routers, cloud services, etc.), while the attacker only needs to find an exploitable vulnerability. Furthermore, any device connected to the internet can be a weapon, a target, or both, so individual users, large and small businesses, and freelancers are all vulnerable.
In the case of SMEs, the risk is often greater because They do not have such advanced cybersecurity measuresAnd yet, they are often suppliers or partners of large organizations: if an attacker manages to get into a small company, they can use it as a springboard to infiltrate the entire chain.
It's also important to keep in mind that cybercriminals don't always rely solely on brute force or technical vulnerabilities. They frequently exploit... social engineering: scams, fake emails, cloned websites or phone calls that try to get you to give them information or install malware without you realizing it.
Main types of cyber threats affecting Spain and your Windows PC
In everyday life, the most common attacks seen in Spain are variations of a few well-known types. Understanding how they work helps you identify warning signs. Better protect your Windows PC.
Malware (viruses, Trojans, spyware, ransomware, worms)Malware is any malicious software designed to take advantage of your device. This category includes:
- RansomwareIt encrypts your files or locks your computer and demands a ransom to recover them.
- TrojansThey pose as something legitimate (an attachment, a free program) and, once inside, steal data or open a backdoor.
- spywareIt spies on what you do, records keystrokes, screenshots, or browsing habits, and sends that information to the attacker.
- WormsThey self-replicate and spread through shared networks without you having to do anything, infecting other computers.
Viruses no longer just arrive via email. They can also sneak in through... pirated software downloads, compromised websites, social media or infected USB devices. And beware of myths: a slow PC or a blue screen doesn't automatically mean you have a virus; it could be a hardware or system maintenance issue.
Phishing and similar scams
El phishing and malware via email It's a form of fraud where the attacker impersonates a bank, a well-known company, or even a trusted contact to trick you into clicking a link or opening an attachment. The goal is steal credentials, card details, documents or infect the computer with malware.
There are more targeted variants, such as the spear phishing (personalized attacks on a specific person or company) or the whalingThis targets managers or executives with the authority to authorize payments. In the business world, corporate email fraud is increasingly common, where the perpetrator impersonates a manager or supplier to obtain transfers to accounts controlled by the attacker.
Other types of cyberattack
DDoS attacksA distributed denial-of-service attack uses a large number of compromised devices to to overload a server, website, or serviceThis leaves legitimate users out of the game. Although they affect organizations more than home users, your Windows PC can be part of a botnet carrying out these attacks if it's infected.
SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS)These attacks primarily target applications and websites. SQL insertion exploits vulnerabilities in how database queries are handled to create, read, or delete sensitive information. Cross-site scripting (XSS), on the other hand, allows malicious code to be injected into pages viewed by other users. stealing session cookies or distributing malware.
BotnetsA botnet is a network of infected PCs, servers, or IoT devices that are remotely controlled. They are used for send spam, launch DDoS attacks, commit financial fraud or distribute more malware. With the expansion of the Internet of Things, these malicious networks have grown enormously, and any poorly protected Windows computer can end up enrolled in one without the owner noticing.
Zero-day vulnerabilities: time is against you
A key concept in cybersecurity is that of zero-day vulnerabilityThis is a software, firmware, or hardware flaw that has already been discovered and may have been made public, but for which there is still no official patch available.
At that moment, both the providers and the attackers are in a kind of race against timeDevelopers work to fix the flaw and release an update, while cybercriminals try to create exploit code to take advantage of it before users update their systems.
When a working exploit already exists and is being used before the manufacturer has released the fix, we call it zero-day attackFor the user, this means that they may be at risk even if everything appears to be up to date.
In practice, the best defense against these scenarios is reduce the attack surface: have as few unnecessary programs as possible, keep the operating system and critical applications always up to date, use advanced antivirus and activate additional layers such as Windows 10/11 tamper protection, which prevents malicious applications from modifying your security settings.
Basic best practices for protecting your Windows PC
Beyond the big concepts, there are a number of very concrete measures you can apply right now to strengthen the security of your teamWhether you're using Windows 10 or have already upgraded to Windows 11.
Keep Windows and your programs always updatedUpdates aren't just cosmetic changes; they fix vulnerabilities that attackers exploit. On Windows, go to Settings > Windows Update And check that automatic updates are enabled. If you see a message saying everything is up to date, great; if there are any pending patches, install them and restart when prompted.
Don't forget that applications like your browser, office suites, or media players can also have problems. The more programs you have that are unused and not updated, The more opportunities you offer the attackerThat's why it's a good idea to uninstall software you don't need, including pre-installed "filler" applications.
Use a reliable antivirus and keep it up to dateWindows already includes Microsoft Defender, which offers built-in antimalware protection and is updated through Windows Update. It's a good starting point, and if you prefer, you can add reputable third-party antimalware solutions. The important thing is that the virus engine and definitions are updated frequently and that you enable the real-time protection.
Windows 10 and 11 systems also have features like the Tamper ProtectionThis feature is designed to prevent malware from disabling your antivirus or other critical security options. Make sure it's enabled in your Windows security settings.
Activate and check the firewallThe firewall acts as a wall that filters incoming and outgoing connections. Windows offers its own built-in firewall; you can view its status in Windows Security > Firewall and Network ProtectionKeeping it enabled drastically reduces the likelihood that an attacker can directly connect to exposed services on your computer.
Passwords, access and privacy: lock the doors securely
A large proportion of the incidents are due not so much to technical failures as to bad practices in handling accounts and passwordsProperly adjusting these aspects is the most effective way to improve your safety.
Create strong and unique passwordsA strong password should have at least 8 characters, although ideally it should be closer to 12 or even use 12 characters. passphrasesMix uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols, and avoid at all costs using obvious personal data (dates, pet names, ID number, etc.).
Never reuse the same password everywhere, especially not for critical services like your bank or primary email. To manage multiple secure passwords, the most practical approach is to use [unclear - possibly "keywords" or "keywords"]. a password managerThis will allow you to generate strong credentials and remember them without having to memorize them all.
In Windows you can set or change your password from Settings > Accounts > Sign-in optionsIt is recommended to disable automatic login with your user so that the system always asks for the password when starting up.
Enable two-step authentication (MFA)Two-step verification adds an extra layer: even if someone gets hold of your password, they'll need a second factor (an SMS code, an authenticator app, or a physical key) to gain access. This is essential in email, social media, cloud services, and online banking.
Lock the device when you're awayIt may seem basic, but it remains one of the most ignored measures. Get used to locking your screen with Windows + L every time you get up from your desk, even if it's "just for a minute." You can also configure automatic sleep and require a password upon resuming. Settings > System > Power and battery > Display and sleep, and in your account login options.
Review the privacy optionsBoth the operating system and browsers collect and share usage data. On Windows, go to Settings > Privacy and security and adjust which permissions you grant (camera, microphone, location, activity history, diagnostics, etc.). In your browser, configure tracking protection, cookies, history, and site permissions.
Emails, browsing and networks: always think before you click
Much of the malware gets in because the user unwittingly downloads or runs it. The golden rule on the internet is distrust by default of the unexpected.
- Do not open suspicious attachments or linksIf you receive an email from someone you don't know or a company you have no connection to, be extremely cautious. Even if it appears to be from your bank, a shipping platform, or a friend, carefully check the sender's address and the message content.
- Use a pop-up blocker and safe browsing.Pop-ups can be simple advertisements, but they can also contain malicious code or tricks to get you to install unwanted software. Modern browsers like Microsoft Edge include popup blockers and lists of malicious websites. It also activates features like SmartScreen, which alerts you if a page or download is suspicious.
- Avoid pirated software and "miracle" downloadsMany infections arrive disguised as cracked programs, key generators, or supposedly free tools found on unreliable websites. While it may seem tempting to save money, the reality is that The cost in security can be enormous.Always download from official sources or trusted repositories.
- Configure your privacy settings on social media properly.The more personal information you post (address, photos of your house, schedule, vacations), the more material you give to potential attackers for physical and digital theft. Review who can see your posts, avoid sharing sensitive data, and use usernames that don't reveal too much on forums and public message boards.
Networks, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and backups: protect the environment
In addition to the PC itself, it is important to reinforce the environment in which it operates: home or work network, wireless connections and backups of your data.
Do not use open, unencrypted Wi-Fi networks.The "free" Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, or libraries that lack a password or use outdated encryption are a magnet for attackers. On an open Wi-Fi network, it's relatively easy to intercept traffic or launch man-in-the-middle attacks. If you have no other option but to use them, avoid accessing sensitive services and consider a trusted vpn.
Secure your home Wi-Fi networkChange the router's default password and use encryption. WPA2 or WPA3 Use a strong password and disable remote access if you don't need it. Segmenting your network (for example, by separating guest or IoT devices from your main PC) reduces the impact of a potential intrusion.
Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you're not using themOn laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, disabling connections when they're not needed eliminates extra entry points. On Windows, you can do this from Settings > Bluetooth & devices y Settings> Network and Internet.
Make regular backupsIf ransomware encrypts your files, a hard drive fails, or your laptop is physically stolen, your backups are your lifeline. Ideally, you should follow the rule of having at least three copies of your data on two different media and one outside the home (for example, on European cloud storage services or on a disk you store in another location).
Check from time to time that you can restore those backups: it's not very useful to have backups if, when the time comes, You don't know how to recover them or they are corruptedThere are automated solutions available both in the cloud and in local software that greatly facilitate this task.
Encryption, user accounts and devices: raise the level of protection
Beyond the basics, there are advanced measures that make a big difference. Especially if you handle sensitive information or work with customer data on your Windows PC.
Enable disk encryptionEncryption ensures that even if someone physically steals your computer or removes the hard drive, You cannot read the data without the key.On Windows, you can use BitLocker from the Control Panel (> System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption). On macOS, the equivalent is FileVault.
Encryption is especially important on laptops, which are more likely to be lost or stolen. If you store confidential reports, client lists, or internal documents, it's practically mandatory.
Manage permissions and users well: applies the principle of lesser privilegeIn practice, this means that each user (including you) should only have the permissions necessary to do their job. Avoid using the administrator account for day-to-day tasks and limit who can install software or change critical settings.
In business environments, it is advisable to define a clear data usage policywith restrictions on access for internal staff and external contractors. Reducing the number of people with administrator rights and periodically auditing who has access to what helps lessen the impact of internal leaks, whether intentional or accidental.
Endpoint protectionIn organizations, in addition to traditional antivirus software, endpoint security solutions are used that add capabilities of Advanced detection and response (EDR)Behavioral analysis and process isolation. The goal is to ensure that any corporate laptop, desktop PC, tablet, or mobile device is monitored and can be quickly contained if something goes wrong.
In the hardware field, some manufacturers integrate additional layers at the BIOS level, secure boot, application isolation, or hardware-enhanced protections These devices complement the security software. They offer clear advantages for companies or users who handle particularly critical information.
How to act during a cyberattack or security incident
No matter how well you protect yourself, there's always a chance something could go wrong. The important thing is to know. What to do if you detect a possible attack or you notice strange behavior on your Windows PC.
- Disconnect and isolate the equipmentIf you suspect something is wrong (encrypted files, strange windows, antivirus disabled for no reason, unusual network activity), the first thing to do is isolate the device from the networkDisconnect the network cable, turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and if you are in a corporate environment, immediately notify the IT or security team.
- Identify what type of attack it could beIt's not always easy, but any clue helps. Have you received a message demanding money to recover your files? It's probably ransomware. Have you received strange emails sent from your account? Your credentials may have been stolen. The sooner the type of threat is identified, It can be better contained and remedied.
- Change vulnerable passwordsIf you suspect an account may have been compromised, change the password from a clean computer and review recent logins. Enable MFA if you haven't already and close open sessions on other devices.
- Assess damage and restore from backupsOnce the attack is contained, it's time to review which systems and data have been affected. If you had healthy backups, you'll be able to... restore information and reinstall systems if necessary. In companies, this will involve coordinating with suppliers, technical support, and, sometimes, with cyber liability insurers.
- Communicate and learn from the incidentDepending on the case, it may be mandatory to notify the authorities and affected customers of a data breach. Being transparent and quick reduces reputational damage. Afterwards, it's advisable to analyze what went wrong and strengthen the measures to prevent it from happening again: process changes, more training, new tools, etc.
In Spain, you also have resources such as INCIBE Cybersecurity Helpline (017), free and confidential, as well as channels via WhatsApp (900 116 117) or Telegram (@INCIBE017) where you can ask questions and receive guidance.
