This paper investigates the causes and characteristics of cyber-attacks in the private sector, including the motives, methods, and consequences of these attacks. Cyber-attacks pose an increasing threat to organizations of various sizes and activities due to their growing reliance on technology. Despite their global significance, information on cyber-attacks is often scattered, non-standardized and unavailable to end users. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive informational foundation that covers various aspects of cyber-attacks, enabling private sector organizations to better understand and prepare for these threats. The research methods included a thorough literature review and empirical research based on secondary data from 1,147 cases of cyber-attacks in the private sector. The research findings highlight that human errors, vulnerabilities in information systems, and rapid technological development are key factors contributing to the success of cyber-attacks. Financial motives were identified as the most dominant, while organized hacker groups were found to be the prevailing actors. The research also demonstrates that a proactive approach is crucial for reducing risks and successfully defending against cyber threats.