Table of contents
- Internal network attacks
- What is an internal network attack?
- External network attacks
- What is an external network attack?
- How to protect against attacks
Operating systems and IT systems are constantly at risk of attacks both from within and from outside.
Internal network attacks
Internal network attacks are among the most insidious because they are perpetrated by individuals who already have access to the corporate network.
These attacks can be carried out by disgruntled employees, former employees, suppliers, or anyone with access credentials.
An internal network attack leverages the cybercriminal’s familiarity with the corporate infrastructure to cause significant damage.
What is an internal network attack?
An internal network attack is one of the most dangerous threats to an organization’s cyber security. Being vulnerable to attacks from within the network is not uncommon.
This type of attack is conducted by individuals who already have a certain level of access to the corporate network, such as current or former employees, suppliers, partners, or anyone who has obtained access credentials through illicit methods, such as social engineering.
Types of internal attacks
Internal attacks can manifest in various forms, including:
- Data theft
Stealing personal data or intellectual property is one of the primary objectives of an internal attack. An employee with legitimate access may copy confidential information onto external devices or send it to third parties without authorization. This data can include customer information, business strategies, trade secrets, and more.
- Sabotage
A disgruntled employee could sabotage company systems by deleting important data, altering critical configurations, or introducing malware. This type of attack can cause significant operational disruptions and financial damage.
- Unauthorized access
Using access credentials, an internal attacker can access systems and data they should not be able to. This access can be used to explore the network, identify other vulnerabilities, and plan further attacks.
- Misuse of resources
Internal attackers may use company resources for personal or illegal activities.
Example:
They might install unauthorized software, use the network for cryptocurrency mining, or engage in illegal activities on the dark web.
- Internal phishing
Even within the network, phishing attacks can pose a threat. A malicious employee might send phishing emails to other employees in an attempt to obtain further access credentials or other sensitive information.
Techniques and tools used in internal attacks
Internal attacks often use a combination of sophisticated techniques and specific knowledge of the company’s network. Some commonly employed tools and techniques include:
- Keyloggers
Software that records keystrokes typed by users, allowing the attacker to gather access credentials and other sensitive information.
- Scripting and automation
Attackers can create scripts to automate data theft, system configuration alterations, or malware spread within the network.
- Data exfiltration
Using hidden channels to transfer data out of the corporate network without being detected, such as encrypted emails, hidden FTP transfers, or uploads to personal cloud services.
- Exploitation of privileged access
Taking advantage of accounts with elevated privileges to access a wide range of data and systems, increasing the impact of the attack.
External network attacks
External attacks are those executed by cybercriminals who do not have direct access to the corporate network system.
These attacks can be launched from anywhere in the world and are often difficult to prevent and detect.
What is an external network attack?
These attacks are generally carried out by hackers or organized groups aiming to breach an organization’s security systems for various purposes, such as data theft, extortion, or damaging IT infrastructure.
Let’s analyze in detail the methods, techniques, and preventive measures for this type of attack.
Types of external attacks
External attacks can take several forms, each with specific characteristics and execution methods:
- DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks
These attacks aim to overwhelm a website or online service with a massive amount of fake traffic, making it inaccessible to legitimate users. Attackers use networks of compromised computers, known as botnets, to generate this traffic.
- Phishing and spear-phishing
Phishing attacks involve sending fraudulent emails that appear to come from trustworthy sources, tricking users into providing login credentials, financial information, or other sensitive data. Spear-phishing is a targeted variant of phishing, aimed at specific individuals within an organization.
- Exploitation of vulnerabilities
Hackers often look for vulnerabilities in operating systems, application software, or network device firmware. These vulnerabilities can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to IT systems. Zero-day exploits, which target vulnerabilities unknown to vendors, are particularly dangerous.
- Malware and ransomware
Malware is malicious software designed to infiltrate, damage, or disable computer systems. Ransomware is a specific form of malware that encrypts the victim’s data and demands a ransom for its release. These attacks can cause severe operational disruptions and financial losses.
- Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks
In a MITM attack, the attacker intercepts and manipulates communications between two parties without their knowledge. This type of attack can be used to steal sensitive information or introduce malware into a victim’s systems.
Techniques and tools used in external attacks
External attacks often use a combination of advanced techniques and sophisticated tools to compromise corporate networks:
- Botnets
Networks of compromised devices used to launch DDoS attacks or distribute spam and malware. Attackers can control these networks remotely to carry out large-scale coordinated attacks.
- Exploit kits
Software packages containing various exploits for different vulnerabilities. Exploit kits are often sold or traded on the dark web and can be used to automate attacks.
- Encryption software
Used in ransomware, this software encrypts the victim’s files, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid.
- Sniffing tools
Used to intercept network traffic and collect sensitive data, such as login credentials and financial information.
How to protect against attacks
Protecting a corporate network from both internal and external attacks requires a comprehensive approach that integrates technology, employee training, and strict security processes.
Here is a detailed guide on how companies can effectively defend themselves against cyber threats.
Regular system updates
One of the most effective methods to prevent attacks is to keep operating systems, application software, and network devices up to date. Vulnerabilities in software are often exploited by hackers to penetrate systems.
Companies should:
- Install security patches
Ensure that all devices and software are updated with the latest security patches. This includes not only servers and computers but also IoT devices and network peripherals.
- Automate updates
Configure systems to automatically update when new patches are available. This reduces the risk of forgetting critical updates.
Employee training
Employees represent the first line of defense against cyberattacks. It is essential that all staff members are aware of threats and know how to behave securely:
- Regular training programs
Organize periodic training sessions on cyber security topics, such as recognizing phishing emails, the importance of strong passwords, and best practices for safe browsing.
- Phishing simulations
Conduct phishing attack simulations to evaluate employees’ responsiveness and reinforce lessons learned during training.
- Corporate security policies
Establish clear policies that define expectations for the secure use of corporate technology, including the use of personal devices for work purposes (BYOD – Bring Your Own Device).
Monitoring and detection
Implementing advanced monitoring tools is crucial for detecting and responding quickly to suspicious activities:
- Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS)
These systems monitor network traffic to detect abnormal behaviors and potential attacks, automatically blocking identified threats.
- Log management and analysis
Collect and analyze system logs to detect attack patterns and promptly respond to security incidents.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
Use SIEM platforms to aggregate and analyze security data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive and detailed view of threats.
Access control
Limiting access to sensitive data and systems is essential to reduce the risk of internal attacks:
- Principle of least privilege
Assign employees only the permissions strictly necessary to perform their job. This minimizes potential damage in case an account is compromised.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implement MFA to add an extra layer of security. In addition to a password, users must provide a second authentication factor, such as a code sent to their smartphone.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Use IAM solutions to manage and monitor user access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access critical resources.
Data backup
Regular data backups are essential to ensure operational continuity in the event of an attack:
- Frequent backups
Perform daily backups of critical data to minimize information loss in case of an incident.
- Offsite and cloud backups
Store backup copies in secure offsite locations or cloud platforms to protect against physical disasters and ransomware attacks.
- Restore testing
Conduct periodic restore tests to ensure that data can be quickly and completely recovered.
Security technologies
Implementing advanced technologies is key to protecting corporate networks from cyber threats:
- Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW)
Use NGFWs that offer advanced features such as application control, intrusion prevention, and content filtering.
- Encryption
Apply encryption to data both in transit and at rest to protect sensitive information, even if intercepted or stolen.
- Antivirus and antimalware solutions
Use up-to-date antivirus and antimalware software to detect and remove known threats from devices.
In conclusion, protecting against network attacks requires constant commitment and a well-planned strategy. Whether it’s an attack from within or from outside, it is essential to understand the threats and take proactive measures to defend the corporate network. Cyber security is not just a technological issue but also a shared responsibility among all members of the organization.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- What are internal network attacks?
Internal network attacks are perpetrated by individuals with legitimate access to the corporate network, such as employees or suppliers.
- What are the main types of external attacks?
The main types include DDoS attacks, phishing, and software vulnerability exploits.
- How can I protect my corporate network from internal attacks?
By implementing strict security policies, monitoring activities, and limiting access to sensitive data.
- What is social engineering?
Social engineering is a technique used by cybercriminals to manipulate people into revealing confidential information.
- What are the risks of a phishing attack?
Phishing attacks can lead to the theft of login credentials, personal data, and other sensitive information.
- What should I do in the case of a DDoS attack?
Implement mitigation measures such as using firewalls and DDoS protection services to limit the impact of the attack.
- Why is it important to regularly update operating systems?
Updates fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
- What role do firewalls play in cyber security?
Firewalls filter incoming and outgoing traffic, preventing unauthorized access to the network.
- How is the dark web connected to cyberattacks?
The dark web is often used to sell stolen data and hacking tools.
- What are the consequences of a network attack for a company?
Consequences may include data loss, damage to reputation, and significant financial losses.
