The network is critical to business. Any threats to network security that interfere with operations and infrastructure can have a significant effect. As the volume and severity of cyber attacks accelerates, it is crucial to understand the biggest threats and what security infrastructure should be in place to prevent attacks and recover from breaches when they occur.
Considering the diversity and extent of attack types, identifying the most serious network security threats can be a challenge. Everything from exploit kits to cryptojacking poses a threat to optimal network operations and data security.
In particular, these three common network security threats are perhaps the most dangerous for companies:
- Malware
- Advanced persistent threats
- Distributed denial of service attacks
In all cases, effective mitigation requires a multi-layered security approach. The good news is that many of the elements work to protect against multiple threat vectors.
How dangerous is malware?
Malware is malicious software designed to infect computers and other systems in order to disrupt operations and surreptitiously track activities. It is one of the most widely used and potentially damaging attacks.
It can be widely deployed in various organizations and is usually not detected until it is too late. Malware can be transferred by e-mail, by downloading it from a website or by other communication methods.
Fighting malware requires more than antivirus software and vigilant patch updates. Organizations need to employ scanning and content filtering on email servers, which have become especially attractive attack targets.
Firewalls, and having the right rules in place, can be vital in deflecting malicious code. Virtual private networks also play a key defensive role, helping remote users to connect to the network securely and avoid viruses, worms and other malicious code.
In addition, educating end users about the different strategies attackers use to breach network assets, including phishing attacks and malicious code provided by insecure websites, is an important part of a well-executed defense.
What are the characteristics of advanced persistent threats?
Advanced persistent threats (APTs) are highly sophisticated and stealthy attacks that target a specific company or system. They use various mechanisms to breach the network, circumnavigate company controls and access desired information without authorization.
APTs can use malware to penetrate the network and apply a technique such as phishing to acquire credentials to access the desired data. Cyberattacks using APTs usually extract their knowledge of a breach to redirect the organization.
Firewalls, email protection, managed detection and response services and antivirus software are key elements in defending against APTs. Companies should also have a sandbox environment to siphon untrusted programs and code for testing.
What happens in a distributed denial of service attack?
Between January 2018 and June 2019, the average number of denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks distributed daily almost doubled, according to Akamai Technologies. DDoS attacks use various systems to flood the target network asset with traffic in order to disrupt operations.
In many cases, attackers kidnap high-value targets in order to extort the organization. These attacks are sometimes ideologically or politically motivated.
Public and private sector organizations need to have various measures in place to protect their infrastructure against different types of attacks
They need a secure network infrastructure that employs intrusion protection, unified threat management and network performance monitoring. Companies should employ a geographically diverse approach to server placement, potentially using the cloud to ensure this strategy.
Companies also need to follow best practices that incorporate consistent system updates. They need a solid and tested response plan in the event of an incident. Many companies also benefit from third-party DDoS mitigation services that detect and mitigate attacks.
Conversys can help your company reduce the risks and impacts of network security threats. Contact our experts now and find out about Aruba Networks' security, network management and connectivity solutions. We are on hand to help you overcome this challenge.
About Conversys
Conversys IT Solutions is a provider of Information and Communication Technology services and solutions operating throughout Brazil.
With a highly qualified technical and commercial team and a network of partners that includes the main global technology manufacturers, Conversys IT Solutions is able to deliver customized IT and Telecom Infrastructure solutions to clients.
We invest in our employees and partners and strive for a long-lasting relationship with our clients, because we believe that this is how we gain the skills and knowledge we need to innovate and generate value for the businesses in which we operate.
About Aruba
ARUBA, a Hewlett Parkard Enterprise company, is redefining the smart grid with mobility and IoT solutions for organizations of all sizes globally.
Offering IT solutions that empower organizations to serve the Mobile Generation - mobile-savvy users who rely on cloud-based applications for all aspects of their work and personal lives - and to harness the power of insights to transform business processes. With infrastructure services offered as private or public cloud software, Aruba offers secure connectivity for mobility and IoT enabling IT professionals to create networks that keep pace with change.
