Overview

In today’s era, everything is moved online because of the internet making work simple and easy. As information is now available online, attackers are currently looking for multiple opportunities to steal personal details. Earlier, only small businesses and individual data were in danger because of hackers, but now they are simultaneously looking for various loopholes to hack big firms and institutions. It is this situation that raises the suspicion of a nation-state-sponsored attack. So, here’s a blog in which we can learn more about evolving cyber threats and some major examples of cyber-attacks.

In this digital world, wars can be initiated through cyber-attack. For this, a cyber breach has to be massive, with tons of resources at their disposal. However, it doesn’t mean individual threats are not scary. Any leak in the private information of an individual or an organization is a threat. Therefore, it’s high time that people start taking the threat of cyber-crime seriously and look out for precautions to stay ahead of these evolving cyber-threats.

For a long time, people thought cybersecurity was an issue only for the technology sector. Still, due to COVID-19, remote work and online classes have increased the chances of cyber-attacks tremendously. It has also led people to learn from the situations and look for preventive methods to protect themselves from it. Technology and software are constantly evolving, making our lives easier and increasing the chances of getting an attack. To stay ahead of these evolving cyber threats, one should look out for managed security services. They are real-time and proactive monitoring security services to protect you from any data breach.

 

Examples For Some Major Cyber-Attacks

There are instances when it’s hard to detect the perpetrators of cyber-attacks. However, managing cyber security services has access to particular tools and applications that will help identify the patterns concerning cyber-attack. Here are some examples of certain hacker groups that have used sophisticated systems to exploit any personal information.

  • Bureau 121 (North Korea)
  • Cozy Bear (Russia), etc

These types of groups plan an attack with minute detail and are willing to take a long-term approach to fulfill their need to exploit others. Here are three such examples:

  • Dragonfly 2.0: The energy sector is a significant component of the critical industry and has been a target for various cyber-attacks. In December 2016, Ukraine encountered a power outage. It is considered the work of a hacker group known as Dragonfly 2.0, gaining access to the target’s network and exploiting the main access point. They are sending various malware and creating several strategies to infect the software and the system. It is believed that Dragonfly used the period between 2011 to 2014 in collecting information and credentials before resurfacing in 2017 to launch an attack.
  • Sony Pictures Entertainment: Sony Pictures have canceled the New York opening for the movie “The Interview” in 2014 due to threats from a hacker group. These groups have also claimed they were the cause of the data breach that year. This group has threatened them with physical violence, ultimately forcing Sony to take thousands of their systems offline. Before the attack, they also led many of their internal communication systems exposed.
  • 2016 DNC (Democratic National Convention) Email: The hacking of the Democratic National Convention email system was one of the most talked-about events in 2016. The cyber-attack of candidate Hillary Clinton’s email made headlines. Initially, it was hard to detect who was responsible for this security breach but later on, it was explained that Fancy Bear and Cozy Bear were accountable for this attack.

Nowadays, malicious links and messages are created to exploit the private information of an individual or an organization. For example, hackers send an email with malware attached to it so that when the targets open it or click on the links, their system is affected. It is known as Spear Phishing attacks. The attacker can access your device and access any private data stored in your device.

 

Proactive Cybersecurity Strategy for Evolving Cyber Threats

To build a strategy, one should know the motive behind the attack. Some attacks are carried out to extract personal information, while some are with other malicious intents. Firstly, the group of hackers carries out sophisticated attacks with a broad range of attacks that usually begins with APT (Advanced Persistent Threats). Then, they establish their presence in the system or network to gather information and use RAT (Remote Access Tools) to avoid getting detected by any security applications. This procedure is carried out to collect data and then ultimately use it to complete the attack, like leaking the information, leveraging the data to control or damage the system/ infrastructure, or launching simultaneous attacks.

Organizations are taking preventive efforts by approaching the issue from a strategic point rather than a risk-based approach because of the increase in cyber threats. Securing the network and limiting the access is one way of ensuring that the danger is limited. In addition, providing training sessions and awareness programs at regular intervals can help develop a solid cybersecurity strategy in staying ahead of these cyber threats.

 

Staying Ahead of Evolving Cyber Threats

As there is a development in technology, new malware is also getting developed simultaneously. Hackers are looking for new methods and ways for data breaches worldwide. However, one cannot just remain silent; one needs to be aware of the increase in cyber threats and be ready to face it. We provide various services to combat the cyber-attacks like Information Technology Maturity AssessmentSpecial Security ServicesNetwork Security, and much more. We also offer training for individuals and organizations known as Spark Training Program and Corporate Training Program to enhance their knowledge in cybersecurity.

 

Reference:

https://insider.ssi-net.com/insights/how-can-we-stay-ahead-of-the-cyber-security-curve

https://eyfinancialservicesthoughtgallery.ie/steps-financial-services-companies-need-take-stay-ahead-evolving-cyberthreats/

 

Author,

Sanjana Yadav

Marketing Department,

Varutra Consulting Pvt. Ltd.