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What is the nature of network intrusion? How to deal with it
The nature of cybersecurity intrusions, including the tactics, techniques, and procedures commonly used by attackers, as well as the types of data they seek. The paper notes that almost all organizations are at least indirectly exposed to security risks, especially through third-party relationships. The importance of strengthening cybersecurity within organizations is emphasized, and effective protection measures are provided, including the use of the latest technologies, staff training, and proactive risk management. Best practices for responding in the event of a security incident are also presented, including the importance of establishing a detailed emergency response plan and working with law enforcement agencies and peers.
Article Quick Facts:
- Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) Commonly Used by Attackers
- Types of data targeted by cyber attackers
- The Three Best Ways to Fend Off Online Threats
- Best Practices for Event Response
- Criteria for Evaluating Incident Response Teams
In the age of digitalization, cyber security has become an increasingly serious challenge. Organizations not only need to be aware of potential cyber threats, but also need to take effective measures to prevent and respond to these threats. As cyber attacks continue to evolve, how to effectively protect an organization's network security and prevent potential data leakage has become an important issue that every organization cannot avoid.
A recent report by SecurityScorecard and the Cyentia Institute shows that 98% organizations are associated with at least one third party that has experienced a data breach in the past two years, indicating that most organizations are at least indirectly exposed to environmental risks beyond their control. In light of this, organizations need to understand how data breaches occur, how to detect them, and effective response strategies.
I. Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) Commonly Used by Attackers
Cyber attackers commonly use a variety of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to attack digital systems and networks, and continually escalate their attacks to get past security measures. These malicious acts include a range of tactics such as exploiting system vulnerabilities and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information.
1Phishing Attacks
One common tactic is phishing emails, in which attackers spoof legitimate-looking messages to trick users into clicking on malicious links or downloading virus-laden attachments. Attackers use social engineering techniques to manipulate the behavior of their targets, making phishing attacks an effective and common method of system infiltration.
2Exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities
Zero-day exploits are also a common technique used by cyber attackers. Attackers exploit known weaknesses in operating systems, applications or firmware to gain unauthorized access. They may use automated tools to scan for network vulnerabilities or exploit unpatched system vulnerabilities. This also emphasizes the importance of regular software updates and patches.
3Malware Attacks
Attackers often use sophisticated obfuscation techniques to safeguard their malware from detection by antivirus software. Attackers introduce malware into the target system to perform unauthorized activities, such as ransomware that encrypts files or spyware that secretly collects sensitive information.
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A man-in-the-middle attack is when an attacker intercepts or modifies information between two parties. Realized technologies such as DNS spoofing or session hijacking can be used to eavesdrop on sensitive data exchanges.
5Theft of certificates
Certificate theft is also a common method of stealing usernames and passwords through keyboard logging, certificate phishing, or utilizing weak authentication mechanisms. Once the credentials are compromised, the attacker can move laterally through the network to escalate their privileges and gain access to critical systems.
II. Types of Data Targeted by Cyber Attackers
Attackers are constantly looking for sensitive and valuable data of all kinds, information that can be used for financial gain, espionage or sabotage. The diverse nature of the data they target reflects the evolving nature of cyber threats.
1Financial data
Financial data continues to be the primary target, including credit card details, bank account information, and personally identifiable information (PII), which can be used for identity theft or fraudulent transactions. This data often has a high value on the dark web and can fetch a lot of money on the underground market.
2Corporate espionage
Corporate espionage is another driver behind cyberattacks, where hackers steal intellectual property, trade secrets and proprietary information. The consequences of such espionage can be severe, affecting a company's competitive advantage, research and development efforts, and market positioning.
3Medical Data
With the digitization of medical records, medical data has become a lucrative target. Patient information, including medical history, treatment plans, and insurance details, can be used not only for identity theft, but also for false insurance claims and even fraud against healthcare organizations.
4Government and Military Data
Government and military entities are at constant risk of cyberattacks by attackers seeking classified information, defense strategies, and sensitive diplomatic communications. The potential impact on national security makes these targets particularly tempting for hackers backed by other countries.
Ransomware attacks have become a significant problem, with cybercriminals encrypting their victims' data and demanding ransom to release it. This can affect individuals, businesses and even critical infrastructure, resulting in operational disruption and economic loss.
5The following are examples of the types of data that can be used in the Internet of Things (IoT), biometrics and biometrics data.
With technological advances, such as biometrics and the Internet of Things (IoT) (IoTNew types of data, such as digital data, have become new targets for attackers.
Overall, the field of cybersecurity is dynamic, with attackers constantly adapting their tactics to exploit new vulnerabilities and steal valuable data. Organizations and individuals need to remain vigilant and take strong cybersecurity measures to protect against these evolving threats.
The best way to defend yourself against cyber threats
To counteract cyber threats and protect organizations from evolving cyber attacks, it is critical to implement strong cyber security measures. Effective protection will involve a combination of technical solutions, staff training and proactive risk management.
1. State-of-the-art protection technology
First and foremost, organizations need to invest in the latest network security technologies, including but not limited to network security components such as firewalls, anti-virus software and intrusion detection systems. Regularly updating and patching software patches is essential to defend against potential attacks. Encryption of sensitive data provides an additional layer of protection.
2. Staff Training
Secondly, a comprehensive staff training program is crucial. Human error is a major factor in cybersecurity breaches, often triggered by phishing or mistakenly downloading malicious content. Training employees to recognize phishing attempts, maintain strong passwords, and identify social engineering techniques can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
3. Active Risk Management
Finally, organizations need to take a proactive approach to risk management. Conducting regular cybersecurity assessments, vulnerability testing, and developing incident response plans are key in this regard. Being prepared to detect, respond and recover from a cyber risk event is just as important as preventing it.
Best Practices for Incident Response
Minimizing damage, protecting sensitive information, and quickly restoring operations are critical to effectively responding to cyberattacks. Several best practices ensure that organizations can properly respond and recover from cyber threats.
1The incident response plan is a well-documented and detailed plan.
First and foremost, it is critical to have a well-documented incident response plan. This plan should outline roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and responses for identifying, controlling, eradicating, recovering, and learning from the incident.SOPThe
2Regular training
Regular training and exercises, including simulations of different types of cyberattacks and assessment of organizational preparedness, are important to ensure that the incident response team is familiar with the procedures and is able to respond quickly under pressure.
3The following table summarizes the key assets of the Company and its subsidiaries
In addition, maintaining an exhaustive list of critical assets and understanding the organization's network architecture helps to quickly identify and contain incidents. Use advanced threat detection tools to monitor anomalies and implement real-time alerts to enhance the ability to detect and respond to threats in a timely manner.
4The following are some examples of how we are working with law enforcement agencies and peers.
Collaboration with external organizations, such as law enforcement agencies and industry peers, provides valuable insight and support during incident response. Post-incident analysis and documentation helps to continuously improve incident response plans, address vulnerabilities, and enhance the overall level of cybersecurity. In an ever-evolving threat landscape, these best practices enable organizations to effectively respond to and mitigate the impact of cyberattacks
V. Criteria for Evaluating Incident Response Teams
The following criteria can be used as important references for evaluating incident response personnel and teams:
- Have experience responding to various types of cyber incidents such as ransomware attacks, data breaches and phishing attempts? And what is your experience in helping third parties respond?
- Is there any experience in conducting incident response exercises, such as tabletop drills or red team assessments?
- Can SIEM data be evaluated and understood?
- Any experience working with external partners such as law enforcement or network insurers?
- Can legally acceptable forensic methods be employed and complex digital forensic investigations of potentially compromised equipment and/or firewall logs be conducted?
- Have experience working with media, insurance, legal and other partners? Are these partners contracted and available in the event of a data breach?
SecurityScorecard Professional Services helps organizations defend, respond and expand their cybersecurity and third-party risk management programs. As the first ratings company to offer comprehensive cybersecurity services, the SecurityScorecard Professional Services team has more than 100 years of collective experience in cybersecurity investigations in both the government and private sectors, and our specialties include digital forensics, incident response, penetration testing, red team operations, tabletop exercises and third-party risk management. A recent report by SecurityScorecard and Cyentia Institute revealed that 98% of organizations are associated with at least one third party that has suffered a data breach in the past two years, suggesting that the majority of organizations are at least indirectly exposed to environmental risks beyond their control. In light of this, organizations need to understand how data breaches occur, how to detect them, and how to respond effectively.
