A prolonged and targeted cyberattack in which an intruder gains access to a network and remains undetected for an extended period.
Description
An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a sophisticated and stealthy form of cyberattack that typically involves a well-organized group of hackers targeting a specific organization or nation. Unlike traditional cyberattacks, which may be opportunistic and short-lived, APTs are characterized by their persistence and strategy. Attackers often use a variety of tactics, including phishing, malware, and social engineering, to infiltrate the network. Once inside, they seek to maintain ongoing access, allowing them to steal sensitive data or disrupt operations over time. Notable APT incidents include the 2010 Stuxnet worm attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, which demonstrated how APTs can cause physical damage, and the 2015 Office of Personnel Management breach, where sensitive personal data of millions of federal employees was compromised. APTs pose significant threats to national security and corporate integrity, making them a critical focus for cybersecurity professionals worldwide.
Examples
- Stuxnet: A malware attack that targeted Iran's nuclear program, causing physical damage to centrifuges.
- Office of Personnel Management (OPM) breach: In 2015, personal records of over 22 million federal employees were stolen by a suspected APT group linked to China.
Additional Information
- APTs often employ multiple phases, including reconnaissance, weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, command and control, and actions on objectives.
- Organizations can defend against APTs by implementing advanced security measures, regular patching, employee training, and monitoring network traffic for unusual activities.