Cyber attacks remain security threats in 2013 -- Verizon study

The Verizon report also noted that larger organisations and governments are the more likely targets for Web application exploits. Verizon's RISK (Research Intelligence Solutions Knowledge) Team data revealed that the likelihood of these attacks is three out of four.

"Given these odds, organisations that choose to take their chances and ignore secure application development and assessment practices in 2013 are asking for trouble," said Baker.

Verizon said social engineering, which targets people rather than machines, are still a threat with such tactics as phishing, increasing "by a factor of three for larger enterprises and governments." Baker said vigilance and education among employees can help combat this threat.

Political motivations

Baker said organisations should watch out for targeted politically or socially motivate attacks such as espionage and hacktivism.