Cyber Threats: Introduction & Solutions

1. Credential Phishing Credential phishing is a cyber attack where attackers impersonate legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or financial data.

Solution:

• Implement email filtering and anti-phishing technologies to detect and block phishing emails before they reach users.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive accounts to enhance security, even if credentials are compromised.

2. DNS Tunneling DNS tunneling is a technique used by attackers to bypass security controls by encapsulating data within DNS queries, allowing covert data exfiltration or communication with command-and-control servers.

Solution:

• Monitor DNS traffic for anomalies like high query rates and unexpected payloads.
• Use DNS security solutions, such as DNS firewalls and threat intelligence feeds, to block malicious traffic.

3. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) CSRF attacks exploit the trust between a user’s browser and a web application to execute unauthorized actions.

Solution:

• Implement anti-CSRF tokens to validate request authenticity.
• Utilize SOP and CORS headers to restrict cross-origin requests and prevent unauthorized access.

4. Data Manipulation Attacks These attacks involve unauthorized alterations to data stored in databases or applications, compromising data integrity.

Solution:

• Implement cryptographic hashing and digital signatures for data integrity verification.
• Enforce role-based access controls and maintain audit logs for traceability.

5. IoT Firmware Vulnerabilities Security flaws in IoT firmware can be exploited to compromise devices.

Solution:

• Conduct code reviews, static analysis, and vulnerability assessments.
• Implement secure boot mechanisms and signed firmware updates.

6. Side-Channel Attacks These attacks exploit unintended information leakage to extract sensitive data.

Solution:

• Use constant-time algorithms and cryptographic blinding.
• Employ hardware-based security mechanisms like TEEs and HSMs.

7. SIM Swapping Attackers fraudulently transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card, intercepting calls, messages, and authentication codes.

Solution:

• Require biometric verification, security questions, or PIN codes for SIM swaps.

8. Ransomware Ransomware encrypts files or locks systems, demanding payment for access restoration.

Solution:

• Regularly update software and patch vulnerabilities.
• Maintain robust backup systems and educate employees about phishing tactics.

9. Phishing Attacks Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by posing as a trustworthy entity.

Solution:

• Use email filters and train employees to recognize phishing tactics.
• Implement MFA for added security.

10. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks DDoS attacks overwhelm a target with traffic, causing disruptions.

Solution:

• Deploy DDoS mitigation services.
• Configure network infrastructure for traffic spikes and implement rate limiting.

11. Insider Threats Malicious or negligent actions by individuals within an organization.

Solution:

• Apply least privilege principles and monitor user activity.
• Conduct regular security awareness training.

12. Zero-Day Exploits These exploits target unknown software vulnerabilities before patches are available.

Solution:

• Use intrusion detection systems and virtual patching solutions.
• Encourage responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities.

13. Data Breaches Unauthorized access to sensitive data, exposing personal or corporate information.

Solution:

• Encrypt data at rest and in transit.
• Implement strict access controls and continuous monitoring.

14. Malware Malicious software designed to damage or gain unauthorized access to systems.

Solution:

• Use antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
• Keep software updated and practice safe browsing habits.

15. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) Long-term, sophisticated attacks to infiltrate and maintain unauthorized network access.

Solution:

• Use network segmentation, encryption, and intrusion detection systems.
• Conduct security assessments and penetration testing.

16. Supply Chain Attacks Exploiting vulnerabilities in third-party software or services.

Solution:

• Vet and monitor third-party vendors.
• Use software composition analysis tools to detect vulnerabilities.

17. Cryptojacking Unauthorized use of computing resources to mine cryptocurrency.

Solution:

• Deploy endpoint security solutions and browser script blockers.
• Monitor system resources for abnormal CPU spikes.

18. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks Intercepting communication between two parties to eavesdrop or manipulate data.

Solution:

• Use HTTPS and encryption protocols.
• Implement digital certificates and update network devices regularly.

19. Social Engineering Attacks Exploiting human psychology to manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information.

Solution:

• Provide security awareness training.
• Enforce strict verification procedures for sensitive requests.

20. Clickjacking Tricking users into clicking hidden elements, leading to unintended actions.

Solution:

• Implement X-Frame-Options and Content Security Policy (CSP) headers.
• Educate users about suspicious links.

21. Botnet Attacks Large-scale attacks using compromised devices controlled remotely.

Solution:

• Monitor network traffic for anomalies.
• Use anti-bot software and restrict suspicious IPs.

22. Rogue Software Deceptive software that misleads users into downloading malicious applications.

Solution:

• Encourage downloading software only from trusted sources.
• Use endpoint protection solutions.

23. Drive-by Downloads Malicious software installed without user consent through compromised websites.

Solution:

• Keep web browsers updated and use security extensions.
• Block suspicious scripts and ads.

24. Credential Stuffing Using leaked username-password combinations to gain unauthorized access.

Solution:

• Enforce password policies and implement rate limiting.
• Use MFA and monitor login attempts for anomalies.

25. Cloud Security Threats Misconfigurations and vulnerabilities in cloud environments.

Solution:

• Implement robust IAM policies and encrypt cloud-stored data.
• Regularly audit and monitor cloud configurations for security gaps.

“Tip”

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