Advanced Persistent Threat - What is it?

An advanced persistent threat (APT) uses continuous and sophisticated hacking techniques to gain access to a system and remain inside for an extended period, potentially leading to destructive consequences.

One of the biggest concerns for corporate cybersecurity professionals is the possibility of a sophisticated attack aimed at stealing valuable company information.

The term "advanced persistent threat" refers to an attack campaign where an intruder or a group of intruders establishes an illicit, long-term presence on a network to mine highly sensitive data.

Targets of these attacks are typically large enterprises or government networks, carefully selected and researched. The ramifications of such intrusions include:

• Theft of intellectual property (e.g., trade secrets or patents)
• Compromise of sensitive data (e.g., employee and user private data)
• Sabotage of critical organizational infrastructure (e.g., database deletion)
• Complete site takeovers

5 Warning Signs of an Advanced Persistent Threat

APT attacks can be complex and difficult to detect. However, recognizing a combination of warning signs may help you identify these attacks.

It is essential to collaborate with an expert cybersecurity provider and utilize specialized anti-APT tools to detect and eliminate hidden threats.

Common warning signs include:

Elevated Log-Ins at Odd Hours

Be concerned if you notice a high volume of elevated log-ins across multiple servers or high-value computers during off-hours.

APTs can escalate quickly from compromising a single computer to taking control of multiple systems. They often achieve this by reading authentication databases and stealing credentials.

Targeted Spear-Phishing Emails

Phishing is a growing threat, with research indicating that employees receive a significant number of malicious emails each year. These phishing attempts often target high-value individuals, such as executives, using information about ongoing projects to appear legitimate.

According to Tessian research from 2022, employees receive 14 malicious emails per year on average. Some industries were especially hard hit, with retail employees receiving an average of 49.

The emails may contain infected attachments or links that compromise your system.

Unusual Data Flow

A significant and unusual amount of data being transferred from internal sources is a major red flag for an APT attack.

Watch for unexpected data flows between internal and external computers, which could indicate unauthorized access.

Widespread Backdoor Trojans

Hackers often use backdoor Trojans to maintain access to compromised systems. These programs allow remote control and command execution, providing ongoing access even if login credentials change.

Unexpected Data Bundles

APT attackers frequently collect stolen data at internal locations before transferring it externally. If you notice large amounts of data appearing in unusual places within your network, it's crucial to take action immediately.

How an APT Attack Works

Stage 1: Infiltration

Enterprises are often infiltrated through three main attack surfaces: web assets, network resources, or authorized users. This can occur via malicious uploads or social engineering attacks, which are common threats faced by large organizations.

Stage 2: Expansion

Once attackers gain access, they expand their presence within the network by identifying new vulnerabilities and targeting sensitive data.

Stage 3: Extraction

During an APT event, stolen data is typically stored within the compromised network. Extracting this data without detection often involves distraction tactics to mislead security teams.

Defense Against Advanced Persistent Threats

Effective APT detection and protection require a multifaceted approach from network administrators, security providers, and users. Here are five ways to protect against APTs:

1. Install a Firewall

   Choosing the right firewall is a critical first line of defense against APT attacks. Options include software firewalls, hardware firewalls, and cloud firewalls.

2. Install Antivirus Software

   Keep your antivirus software up to date to detect and prevent various malware threats used by APT hackers. Ensure it can access real-time data to identify new threats.

3. Install a VPN

   A virtual private network (VPN) creates an encrypted tunnel for accessing your network securely, reducing the risk of remote access vulnerabilities.

4. Enable Email Protection

   Activate spam and malware protection for your email applications and educate employees on identifying potentially malicious emails.

5. Implement Intrusion Prevention Systems

   Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) monitor your network for unusual behavior and alert you to potential threats, making them vital for early detection.

Protecting your organization from an APT attack requires more than just awareness; it involves proactive measures and employee education. Remember, prevention and early detection are key to minimizing potential damage.

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