Understand and Defend Against Advanced Persistent Threats
As our world becomes increasingly digitized, the cybersecurity landscape continues to change and evolve. And with that comes new threats like Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). So, what exactly are APTs? And how can we defend against them?
Advanced persistent threat (APT)
An advanced persistent threat (APT) is a cybersecurity term that refers to an attack in which hackers enter a network and remain within it for an extended period without being detected. During this time, they can access and steal confidential information stored in the system, and spread malicious software (Malware), with the goal of damaging or extracting data from the target environment undetected over an extended period of time. APTs are typically launched by organized criminal groups, State sponsored, independent hackers, and terrorists who excel at concealing their activities so they can maintain their presence in targeted networks for long durations undetected. According to cybersecurity experts, APTs are unique because they must be detected early to prevent them from causing serious or even catastrophic damage.
Characteristics of an APT group
Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups operate in secret, focused on strategic goals to gain data for their own gain. Their motivations vary from finances or corporate espionage to political or ideological purposes. These patterns of threats present a serious cyber security risk due to the sophistication of their techniques and infrastructure to identify targets, exploit vulnerabilities and hide malicious activities. Sophisticated methods are employed to target specific organizations, which have often been researched extensively prior to the launch of an attack, enabling the APT group to rise above others when it comes to persistency and infiltration capabilities. They can evade traditional defenses through exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities and using personalized malware that quickly evolves over time, often making them difficult if not impossible to trace. All these characteristics make the APT group a genuinely concerning element in the modern cyber security landscape.
Methods used by APTs during an attack
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are cybersecurity threats that aim to gain access to an organization’s network and then remain undetected for as long as possible. The attackers behind APTs often use various methods to infiltrate a system, including exploiting open ports or unpatched vulnerabilities in software, engaging in social engineering, or deploying malware. One common type of cybersecurity malware used by APTs is spear phishing. This involves sending malicious emails to users that appear genuine and contain links or attachments containing malicious code. When clicked on, this can give the attacker access to the user’s machine and data, allowing them to move freely through the system. Other methods involve such tactics as credential stuffing and vulnerable web pages, both of which are often used simultaneously by APT attackers to gain maximum access. While it can be difficult for organizations to detect APTs before significant damage has been done, these nefarious techniques demonstrate why cybersecurity should always remain a top priority for networks large and small.
Tips for preventing and defending against APTs
To demonstrate vigilance in preventing and defending against advanced persistent threats (APTs), the first step organizations should take is to implement security protocols, such as firewalls and malware and antivirus programs, which provide baseline protection. Additionally, organizations should pay close attention to user access control policies; only trusted personnel should be granted certain levels of system access. If human resources controls permit, consider implementing two-factor authentication procedures when granting access to remote systems or accounts. Regular log reviews are essential for detecting suspicious activity or intrusions that slip through security defenses. In the event an APT is detected organizations can take remediation steps such as restoring from backup or wiping and rebuilding impacted devices. Lastly organizations should remain aware of potential threats coming from external sources since these can be a primary point of entry for attackers seeking internal resources.
Conclusion
Advanced persistent threats are a type of cyberattack in which an unauthorized person gain access to a computer network and remains there undetected for a prolonged period of time. These attacks are carried out by well-resourced and skilled groups who are often sponsored by nation-states. APTs use sophisticated methods to gain access to networks and cover their tracks, making them difficult to defend against. However, there are steps organizations can take to reduce the risk of becoming victim to an APT, such as increasing network security and awareness training for employees. Have you experienced an advanced persistent threat? What measures did you take to prevent or mitigate the attack?
