Why might an end-user device be targeted by cybercriminals?

End-user devices are often targeted by cybercriminals primarily because they can contain outdated software. Outdated software may have unpatched vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access, install malware, or conduct other malicious activities. Since users may not regularly update their applications and operating systems, these weaknesses provide an attractive entry point for cybercriminals. In contrast, devices that run efficiently or have strong security protocols would present more of a challenge for attackers. Additionally, a device that is always turned off would be less accessible and therefore less likely to be targeted at all. Thus, the presence of outdated software significantly increases the risk and likelihood of an end-user device being targeted.