Nation State (APTs)
What's an APT?
An APT is a cyber-attack launched against a specific company, person, or institution. These attacks are usually deployed by well-trained attackers using advanced technology, strategic tactics, and the necessary (financial) resources. APTs are well-structured and complex.
Who is affected by APTs?
According to Bitkom (Bundesverband Informationswirtschaft, Telekommunikation und neue Medien e. V.), medium-sized companies are most seriously affected by IT espionage or sabotage – over 60 percent. Most organizations are already compromised without even being aware of it.
Why would someone launch an APT?
A successful advanced persistent threat can be extremely effective and beneficial to the attacker. For nation-states, there are significant political motivations, such as military intelligence. For smaller groups, APTs can lead to significant competitive advantages or lucrative payouts.
How do I prevent an APT?
When organizations detect gaps in their security, they intuitively deploy a standalone product to fill that void. A solution filled with standalone products, however, will continue to have inherent gaps. To avoid these security gaps, organizations need to take a holistic approach. This requires a multilayered, integrated security solution. Deploying a portfolio of products that can seamlessly work together is the best way to enhance security.
Where does the APT attack come from?
Most APT groups are affiliated with or are agents of governments of sovereign states. An APT could also be a professional hacker working full-time for the above. These state-sponsored hacking organizations usually have the resources and ability to closely research their target and determine the best point of entry.
