An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a sophisticated and prolonged cyber-attack in which an intruder targets a specific organization, gains access to its network, and remains undetected for an extended period. An APT attack is particularly dangerous as it is carefully planned and designed and can dodge existing security measures. APTs are mostly executed manually by highly experienced cybercriminals who have substantial financial backing. Hence, such attacks usually target high-value organizations to steal sensitive information over an extended period.
An APT attack uses various techniques to gain access to, and infiltrate, a network. Zero-day vulnerabilities in software or hardware may be exploited to gain access to target systems. Advanced malware may be used to breach the defenses and gain network access. Targeted spear phishing emails may be used to fool people into revealing credentials, or clicking on links that can execute malicious code in their computing systems. Supply chain attacks may be used to compromise software or hardware before it reaches the target organization. Use of these affected components may allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to the organization’s network. APTs use sophisticated methods to evade detection, including encryption and anti-analysis measures. Using Command-and-Control servers, APTs create communication routes between the target organization and attacker’s network. This allows the attacker to maintain control over the target network and steal sensitive data.
Due to a recent surge in APTs, it has been predicted that the APT protection market will generate revenues to the tune of 23 billion U.S. dollars in 2028, up from 10 billion U.S. dollars in 2024.
Impact
APTs usually cause data breaches and theft of intellectual property. These can result in significant financial losses for the affected organization.
Critical organizational infrastructures (sensitive databases, websites etc.) may be damaged.
Organizations may suffer from downtime and loss of productivity while recovering from an APT attack.
APTs may damage an organization’s brand image, leading to loss of customer base.
Breach of sensitive data may cause organizations to face litigations.
APT attacks faced by critical sector organizations (defence, power, telecom etc.) can have severe implications for national security.
Controls
Organizations should implement a comprehensive security policy.
The latest security patches and updated anti-malware should be installed in all systems.
Proper identity and access management must be implemented for critical networks. Access should only be granted on a need-to-know and need-to-use basis.
Web Application Firewalls should be installed on network endpoints and edge networks.
Remote connections should be secured by using robust encryption techniques.
Behavior-based threat detection systems may be implemented to identify anomalies that can indicate APT activities.
Organizations should implement incident response plans that include forensic capabilities to investigate and mitigate breaches after an APT attack is detected.
Periodic security assessments and audits should be conducted to detect and remove vulnerabilities in systems.
Users should be provided with continuous training on the organization’s security policies and procedures.
How Sujosu Can Help
Sujosu Technology can help you identify areas of concern and assess your application and infrastructure security risk. Our consultants can suggest appropriate countermeasures and provide awareness / training to prevent, detect, identify, and recover from security attacks. Engage with us and remain cyber-secure.
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