What is Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)?
Tags: cybersecurity, security
Published: 2023-04-17 07:06:18

## Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)
An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a term in which an unauthorized user gains access to a network or system and remains undetected for an extended period, typically to steal sensitive information or cause damage. APT attacks are characterized by their sophistication, targeted nature, and persistence, often involving multiple stages and methods to evade detection. APT attacks are typically carried out by well-funded, skilled attackers who have specific goals and are willing to invest significant time and resources to achieve them.

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## How does APT work?
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) typically follow a multi-stage attack process that can be broken down into the following steps:

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● Reconnaissance: The attacker collects information about the target, such as discovering the system, application, and user vulnerabilities.

● Gain access: The attacker gains access to the target system or network, typically using a combination of social engineering, spear-phishing, or zero-day exploits.

● Establish a foothold: The attacker creates a persistent presence on the target system, using techniques such as backdoors, remote access trojans, or command-and-control channels.

● Deepen access: The attacker seeks additional access and control, often by stealing user credentials or exploiting vulnerabilities in the system or application.

● Move laterally: The attacker moves laterally across the network to access other systems and data.

● Look, learn, remain: Attackers can closely investigate how the system operates and where it is susceptible. It is now simple for them to obtain the information they require. They can then continue in the system until they achieve their goal—or they can stay inside without the intention of ever leaving.

## APT Technique
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) use various techniques to infiltrate and remain undetected in a target system or network. Some of the common techniques used by APTs include:

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/nftilqrqwmwnlkyen79q.jpg)
● Social engineering: Using tactics such as phishing or spear-phishing to trick users into divulging sensitive information or clicking on a malicious link.

● Zero-day exploits: Taking advantage of vulnerabilities in software or systems that are not yet known or patched.

● Backdoors and trojans: Using malicious software to create a persistent backdoor into a system or network, allowing attackers to access and control the compromised system.

● Credential theft: Stealing login credentials to gain access to a system or network.

● Command and control (C2) channels: Using hidden communication channels to communicate with and control compromised systems.

● Lateral movement: Moving laterally across a network to gain access to additional systems or data.

● Data exfiltration: Stealing sensitive data and exfiltrating it from the target system or network.

## How can InfosecTrain help?

APTs have become a more significant cybersecurity concern after the Covid-19 pandemic. Several APT cybercrime organizations have begun employing phishing attacks based on coronaviruses to obtain access to the company’s systems or network and subsequently conduct very destructive cyberattacks. If you desire to learn more about these kinds of cyberattacks, you can check out various training courses from [InfosecTrain](https://www.infosectrain.com/).