Discover how to protect your organisation from Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) with effective strategies to counter these stealthy and persistent cyber attacks.
Advanced Persistent Threats: A Growing Risk to Your Cyber Security
As we observe Cyber Security Awareness Month this October, it’s important to consider the evolving risks to our digital world. Among the most concerning threats are Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). These cyber attacks are highly sophisticated and designed to infiltrate an organisation’s systems, often remaining undetected for extended periods.
Unlike typical cyber attacks that seek immediate gains, APTs are stealthy, focused, and frequently backed by well-funded groups, including state-sponsored entities. Their main goal is to gain long-term access to sensitive data, allowing them to extract valuable information over time. In this article, we’ll explore how APTs operate, their effects on businesses, and actionable steps you can take to defend against them.
Why Are APTs So Dangerous?
APTs are unique due to their complexity and persistence. These attacks often begin with a subtle infiltration, usually through phishing or spear-phishing. Here, attackers trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware. Once inside the network, attackers install backdoors, rootkits, and other advanced malware. This allows them to remain undetected for months—or even years.
Moreover, the strategic nature of APTs makes them particularly threatening. Attackers take time to explore compromised networks, locate valuable data, and increase their access privileges. Their aim isn’t just quick financial gain but rather long-term control. They may quietly extract data or wait to launch a damaging attack at the most opportune moment.
Techniques Used in APTs
APTs exploit vulnerabilities in your organisation’s network in various ways. One common method is the use of zero-day attacks. In these cases, cybercriminals exploit software vulnerabilities that haven’t yet been patched. Social engineering is another popular tactic. Here, attackers manipulate employees into granting them access to internal systems.
Once inside, attackers use lateral movement to navigate the network and compromise additional systems. This helps them gather data, increase their privileges, and possibly disrupt operations later. Their use of encryption and obfuscation techniques also makes it difficult to detect their activities.
High-Profile APT Attacks
Several high-profile APT attacks in recent years demonstrate just how damaging these threats can be. For instance, the SolarWinds attack in 2020—linked to Russian state-sponsored actors—compromised thousands of organisations, including major government agencies. Similarly, the Hafnium breach in 2021 involved a Chinese state-sponsored group exploiting vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange Server. This attack affected businesses in industries such as defence, healthcare, and higher education.
These examples underscore the need for strong cyber security defences. Even the most secure systems can fall victim to skilled attackers.
How to Detect and Defend Against APTs
One major challenge with APTs is their ability to avoid detection. However, certain warning signs can indicate an ongoing attack. For example, unusual activity on privileged user accounts, unexpected database traffic, or spikes in spear-phishing attempts may signal an APT.
To reduce this risk, organisations should adopt a multi-layered cyber security strategy:
- Strengthen perimeter security: Use firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to monitor and block entry points.
- Regularly conduct vulnerability assessments: Keep software up to date and patch vulnerabilities to close security gaps.
- Implement network segmentation: Limiting lateral movement can stop attackers from accessing multiple systems.
- Use advanced endpoint protection: Secure every device connected to your network with next-generation protection tools.
- Provide staff training: Teach employees to spot phishing attempts and other social engineering tactics used by APT actors.
- Deploy AI and machine learning tools: Use advanced threat detection systems to identify suspicious behaviour and detect potential intrusions.
The Role of Threat Intelligence and Continuous Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of network activity is crucial in the fight against APTs. By watching for unusual patterns, organisations can identify threats before significant damage occurs. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools can collect data from various systems, offering real-time insights into potential risks.
Threat intelligence is also vital. By staying updated on the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by attackers, organisations can adapt their defences. Integrating threat intelligence feeds into your security framework helps detect and respond to APTs more effectively.
Conclusion: Staying Vigilant Against APTs
Advanced Persistent Threats are one of the most dangerous types of cyber attacks facing businesses today. Their stealth and sophistication make them difficult to detect and even harder to eliminate. However, a robust, multi-layered cyber security strategy can protect your organisation. This strategy should include continuous monitoring, employee training, and the latest in AI-driven threat detection.
As APTs evolve, so too must your defences. Regularly assess your security, stay informed about the latest cyber threats, and remain vigilant.
New Era’s Cyber and Network Security Solutions
Strengthen your defences with New Era Technology’s range of cyber and network security services. From comprehensive security assessments to multi-layered protection tools like firewalls and email security, we help protect your systems. Our solutions, including multi-factor authentication (MFA), ensure only the right users access critical data. Plus, our advanced monitoring tools safeguard your network. Ready to enhance your security? Explore our services or contact us at solutions@neweratech.com to learn how New Era can help protect, detect, and respond to threats.