Working of an Advanced Persistent Threat
These are steps that the attacker performs in APT to gain access and maintain access on the network which are as follows :
- Gain access : The attackers can gain access through the network. This is done through spear-phishing email or other methods where the attacker’s main intention is to insert the malicious software into the target network.
- Broadening its access : When the access part is done by the attacker, they start exploiting the malware. This exploiting of malware makes the attacker move around without even getting detected.
- Gaining more access : When the attacker has gained access to the network, they may use some ways like password cracking to get the administrative rights. This will allow the attacker to get more control of the system and get access at a deeper level.
- Move at will : When the attacker has breached all the system and got the administrative rights they can move around.
- Harvesting of data : When the attackers are in the system, they start harvesting the data and store those data on their own system. They can remain in the system for a longer period of time until they are detected.
Advanced Persistent Threat
Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is like a stealthy burglar who breaks into a house and stays hidden for a long time, carefully stealing valuable items without being noticed. They use sophisticated techniques to avoid detection and maintain access, allowing them to continuously gather sensitive information or cause damage over an extended period. Unlike common cyber-attacks APTs are patient and methodical, making them especially dangerous and hard to eliminate.