Cybersecurity is a vital issue for every business. Besides common types of cyber attacks, APT attacks have emerged as a dangerous and persistent threat, causing serious consequences for organizations, especially businesses. So what is APT and why do businesses need to guard against them? To answer, please refer to the following information.

The target of APT attacks

The target of APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) attacks is to take control of the system for the longest time possible. APT attacks can vary depending on the given situation and the attacker’s purpose. However, in general, APT attacks often aim at the following goals:

• Stealing sensitive data: This is the most common target of APT attacks. Attackers can target sensitive data such as financial information (Credit card data, bank account information, etc.) or personal information (Name, address, phone number, email, etc.) or business secrets (Business strategy, product plan, proprietary technology, etc.).
• Disruption of operations: Attackers can attack a business’s network system to cause disruption of operations, affecting the productivity and reputation of the business.
• Committing cyber crimes: APT attacks can be used to commit cyber crimes such as ransomware, phishing, etc.
• Cause political instability: Attackers can target government organizations or important agencies to cause political instability.
• Infrastructure sabotage: Attackers can target important infrastructure systems such as power grids, transportation systems, etc.
• In addition, APT attacks can also be used to gather intelligence, build botnets or confirm the attacker’s capabilities.

Regardless of the target, APT attacks are a dangerous threat to organizations and businesses. Therefore, raising awareness about cybersecurity and implementing APT prevention measures is extremely important.

Consequences of APT attacks on businesses

Targeted APT attacks are dangerous, persistent threats and can cause serious consequences for businesses. These consequences include:

Financial loss

Businesses may have to pay costs to overcome the consequences of APT attacks, including data recovery costs, network system repairs, and hiring cybersecurity experts. Loss of revenue due to operational disruptions and loss of brand reputation due to sensitive data leaks are also serious consequences.

Interruption of operations

The business’s network system may be interrupted or even completely paralyzed. This results in loss of access to important data, severely impacting productivity and operational efficiency.

Sensitive data leak

Financial data, personal information, business secrets… can be stolen and used for illegal purposes. Businesses may violate data protection laws and be subject to fines, affecting brand reputation and causing internal instability.

Causes instability within the enterprise

Employees may be worried and confused when they learn that their business has been attacked by APT. This affects productivity and operational efficiency, while also making it difficult to attract and retain talented employees.

Loss of competitive advantage

Stolen trade secrets can help a business’s competitors get ahead. That will cause businesses to lose their competitive advantage in the market. In addition, APT attacks can also cause long-term consequences for businesses such as losing customers and partners, having difficulty accessing investment capital, and reducing business value.

APT attack stages

APT attacks are often divided into 5 main stages:

• Exploration phase: The attacker collects information about the target, including domain name, IP address, network structure, software used, etc. The attacker can use techniques such as network scanning, collecting information from public sources (such as social media), or use phishing techniques to trick target employees into providing information.
• Intrusion phase: The attacker exploits security holes in the target’s network or software system to penetrate the system. Attackers can use different types of malware such as Trojans, viruses, ransomware, etc. to penetrate the system.
• Position consolidation phase: After entering the system, the attacker will try to consolidate his position to maintain a long-term presence in the system. Attackers can install backdoors, rootkits, or use other techniques to hide in the system.
• Exploitation phase: The attacker will collect sensitive data or perform destructive actions on the system. Attackers can use techniques such as keylogging, packet sniffing, or direct access to the database to collect data.
• Escape phase: The attacker will erase his traces and exit the system. Attackers can use techniques such as deleting files, encrypting data, or using anonymous networks to escape the system.

How to detect and prevent APT attacks

APT attacks are a dangerous, persistent and ever-evolving threat, requiring businesses to proactively detect and apply effective prevention measures.

How to detect APT attacks

Here are some ways to detect APT attacks:

• Network monitoring: Monitor unusual activities such as traffic flow, sensitive file access, or unusual account activity.
• Analyze system logs: Look for signs of attack such as login errors, sensitive file access, or unusual account activity.
• Use security tools: Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) help detect APT attacks.
• Raise employee awareness: Train employees on signs of APT attacks and how to report suspicious activity.

Preventing APT attacks

To prevent APT attacks, businesses can apply the following methods:

• Update software and systems: Install the latest security patches to close security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
• Use advanced security solutions: Firewalls, anti-virus software, IDS and IPS help protect the network system.
• Take additional security measures: Regular data backups, access controls, and physical security.
• Raise awareness and train employees on cybersecurity.

Remember that APT attacks are persistent and complex, often targeting organizations over long periods of time. By taking these precautions, you can strengthen your defenses against APT threats. Businesses and organizations should be vigilant and prioritize security to protect their systems and data.