Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks continue to be one of the most prevalent methods hackers use to disrupt businesses. Involving the use of multiple systems (personal computers, smartphones, etc.), DDoS attacks overload an organization's network by generating web traffic that can't be accommodated by the system's capacity limits.

Unlike with other forms of cyber attacks, DDoS attackers run the gamut in terms of their technical prowess. With DDoS services available for purchase online, even the least tech-savvy teenager with a credit card is capable of taking down company web assets for hours and even days.

Due to the diversity amongst those carrying out DDoS attacks, ranging from high-school kids to state-sponsored hackers, the purpose behind separate incidents can vary significantly. For example, while an experienced cyber criminal may use a DDoS attack for diversionary purposes, a disgruntled employee may carry out an attack just for the sake of causing chaos. In this slideshow, A10 Networks has mapped out some of the most common motives for these attacks and describes the tell-tale signs.