6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Courses

Back to blogs

Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Read it in 17 Mins

Published Views
15th Jun, 2023 6,285

In this article
1. What is Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) in Cyber Security?
2. How Does Advanced Persistent Threats Work
3. Key Characteristics of an APT Attack
4. Types of Advanced Persistent Threats
5. Five Stages of Advanced Persistent Threat Attack (APT)
6. APT Security Measures
7. Advanced Persistent Threat Examples
8. APT Detection and Protection
9. Most common tactics used by APTs
10. Conclusion
11. Advanced Persistent Threat FAQs

View Less

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 1/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Organizations must be aware of advanced threat tactics, as cyber-attacks have become

more sophisticated and covert. The term persistent threat describes a series of cyber-
attacks over time. These well-researched attacks can be used to gain access to sensitive
data, steal intellectual property and test computer networks without being detected.

In this article, we will explain what an APT — advanced persistent threat is, what
organizations need to know about APT attacks, how it works, and how you can protect
yourself from it. Explore the Best CEH Course and improve your cyberskills!

What is Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) in Cyber Security?

The advanced persistent threat (APT) has been the bane of cybersecurity for years now. This
has become a major issue as cybercriminals and nation-states have started taking
advantage of this new and emerging threat vector. The primary function of APT cyber
security is to penetrate the perimeter security systems of your organization so that they can
access internal resources. Here are five common stages of an APT attack:

Main Goals of APT Attacks and their Category

Unauthorized access to classified information such as credit cards, bank accounts,
passport details, etc.
Sabotage the entire system, including the cloud, by deleting the complete database.
Taking over the critical website and making major changes such as the stock market or
hospital.
Accessing essential systems with the credentials of the people.
Access to sensitive or incriminating information through communication.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 2/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

How Does Advance Persistent Threats Work?

APTs generally take place over time and involve the following steps:

1. Hackers infiltrate networks. The malware is usually planted into the network via phishing
emails, malicious attachments, or application vulnerabilities.
2. An external command-and-control server may be used to provide additional instructions
or code to the malicious software.
3. As a result, malware will often create other points of compromise to ensure that an
attack can continue. Although a specific entry point or vulnerability has been closed or
strengthened.
4. After successfully gaining access to a network, a cybercriminal begins working. It might
involve stealing confidential information, deleting data, or stealing account names.
5. A staging server is used by the malware to collect data. This data is exfiltrated using an
external server controlled by the hacker. As soon as the hacker breaches the network in
this way, he will attempt to cover his tracks, erase all evidence, and repeat the process
indefinitely.

Key Characteristics of an APT Attack

Several characteristics distinguish advanced persistent threat cyber security attacks from
others.

1. They are advanced

Costs for customizing APTs can range from thousands to millions of dollars. A team of highly
skilled and intelligent cyber criminals created them. In the hacker’s view, APTs are the most
resource-intensive form of crime because they require many months of development and
launch.

2. They are persistent

The types of hackers involved in APT usually have a lower risk tolerance than those who
engage in “script kiddies” or other types of hacking that cast a wide net to attract a single
target. These attacks aim to evade detection for as long as possible by planning and
designing them carefully with knowledge of the target’s vulnerabilities.

3. They are stealthy

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 3/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

An APT attack is not shallow when it comes to skills and methodologies. It is typical for these
threats to be characterized by highly sophisticated social engineering activities, detection,
and prevention, as well as persistence once they have gained access.

4. They are non-obvious

It is pertinent to note that, in addition to the tools listed above, there are an endless array of
potential advanced persistent threat tools, including the deadliest Trojan virus.

5. They are tailored

Semi-technical script kiddies rarely run advanced persistent threats. Their development
takes your organization’s vulnerabilities into account, and they’re highly targeted at you.
Zero-day malware attacks falling within the APT category may require millions or even
millions of dollars to develop.

6. They have a specific purpose

Using an APT, criminals can repeatedly gather sensitive information over time and maximize
their earnings. There are also times when the objective is politically, strategically, or
espionage-related. This period of time also involves repeated pursuit of APT goals.

7. They establish multiple through multiple weak points

Multiple attempts may be launched for an initial presence in a network, although first
attempts are generally sufficiently well-researched to succeed. Your organization’s human
gatekeepers as well as your network’s vulnerabilities, can be discovered through months of
research.

8. They occur in multiple stages

An APT’s multiphase nature is one of its most defining characteristics. Social Engineering,
phishing, exploit kits, etc., are among the phases in which they attempt to enter a system.
The process involves:

Mapping an organization’s network.

Developing a precise approach.
Capturing data.
Repeating the exfiltration process as often as possible.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 4/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

9. They have particular signs of detection

The following symptoms may be observed by organizations following a compromise,
although APTs are almost universally incredibly difficult to detect:

Activity on user accounts that seems odd

A widespread method of securing access is the use of backdoor trojans
Increasing database operations suddenly, which can involve enormous amounts of data,
is unusual database activity
Exfiltration may be facilitated by combining collected data into files

10. They have knowledge sources

Businesses everywhere should be aware of APT attacks. These attacks should not be ignored
by small and medium enterprises, however. In order to gain access to large organizations,
APT attackers increasingly use smaller companies that are part of the supply chain.

Types of Advanced Persistent Threats

It's hard to imagine a situation worse than being hacked by a sophisticated APT. Malware
that performs APT attacks over a prolonged period of time is referred to as APT malware.
Instead of causing damage to a computer or network, APT malware repeatedly steals data
over a long period of time. Although there are many types of advanced persistent threats,
the following are the most common:

1. Social engineering
By exploiting social engineering techniques, systems, networks, and physical locations can
be accessed by unauthorized individuals without their knowledge. Hackers conceal their
identities and motives by posing as trusted individuals or sources of information. It is
possible to influence, manipulate, or trick an organization into revealing sensitive
information.

2. Phishing
APT phishing attack is when a website pretends to be legitimate but actually contains
someone trying to steal your credit card number, bank account information, or password.
Cybercriminals typically send a fake message that contains a phishing website link that
appears to come from a reputable company, a friend, or an acquaintance.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 5/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

3. Spear phishing
Emailing or using electronic communications to target an individual, company, or
organization is called spear phishing. Malware can also be installed on a targeted user's
computer by cybercriminals, even though they usually intend to steal data for malicious
purposes.

4. Rootkits
Hackers can take control of a target device with malware, such as rootkits. The hardware
and software on your computer can be infected by some rootkits and the operating system
and software.

5. Exploit Kits
Exploits exploit software vulnerabilities. When hackers find outdated systems with critical
vulnerabilities, they deploy targeted malware to exploit them. Malware payloads commonly
include shellcode, a small piece of malware that downloads additional malware from
attacker-controlled networks. Organizations and devices can be infiltrated and infected with
shellcodes.

6. Other methods
Other APT attack examples are computer worms, bots, spyware, adware, ransomware,
remote execution, spear phishing, web shell, rootkits, keylogger, and many more.

Explore the most advanced IT Security Courses Online on KnowledgeHut!

Five Stages of Advanced Persistent Threat Attack (APT)

1. Initial access
Cybercriminals gather information about their targets during the initial access phase of an
APT attack. The primary targets of the initial stage are the employees of the organization,
their workstations, exploiting application vulnerabilities, vulnerabilities in security tools, and
malicious uploads, spear phishing commonly targets employees with privileged accounts.
The attackers hope to gain control over the target by infecting it with malicious software.

2. First penetration and malware deployment

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 6/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

The development phase of an APT attack is when the cybercriminals and nation-states focus
on finding vulnerabilities in the networked resources of the organization. They will then
attempt to exploit these vulnerabilities and gain access to internal resources they didn’t
initially intend to access. An attacker installs backdoor shells and trojans disguised as
legitimate software to access the network and control the compromised system. By
encrypting, obfuscating, or rewriting code, advanced malware techniques the attacker can
conceal an APT’s activity.

3. Expand access and move laterally

In an expanded access phase of an APT attack is the process where the cybercriminals install
their malicious code onto endpoints. The installation process varies from case to case. Their
goal is to gain deeper access and control over more sensitive systems by using brute force
attacks or exploiting other vulnerabilities. It could be as easy as getting an employee to open
an infected attachment and thus an attacker can bypass firewalls and create tunnels as well
as install additional backdoors.

4. Stage the attack

This stage is where the cybercriminals attempt to remain under the radar of the network
security systems. During this phase, the cybercriminals and nation-states employ techniques
such as watering-down activity to lower their risk.

This stage can take time as the common practice of attackers is to encrypt and compress
data to prevent it from being easily accessed. The primary goal of this stage is to let the APT
attacks run while keeping a low profile.

5. Exfiltration or damage infliction

The exfiltration or damage infliction phase of an APT attack is when the cybercriminals
attempt to damage or destroy as many resources as possible. The hacker can fully exploit a
system's vulnerabilities from within, giving a complete control of the system.

To distract security teams, hackers frequently use a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
attack when transferring data outside a network perimeter.

Once hackers achieve a particular goal, they may withdraw or continue to run this process
indefinitely. It is common for hackers to leave a backdoor open to regain access to the
system later. Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 7/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

APT Security Measures

1. Traffic monitoring
Communication and information technologies will never cease to evolve, and data in motion
will always exist. Because hackers always target the main arteries and thoroughfares of data
flow, monitoring network traffic is crucial for organizations of all sizes. A network traffic
monitoring system safeguards against potential problems and is also used to maintain
network performance and speed.

2. Application and domain whitelisting

Whitelisting applications help protect your computer system against malware, spam,
ransomware, and other threats, like email whitelisting. The application whitelist works
oppositely to approve email addresses, allowing only approved applications to run.
Unwhitelisted items are blocked and considered unsafe.

3. Access control
Access control is one of the most effective defenses against advanced persistent threats,
such as using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, or Google Authentication,
because it mitigates the threat of compromised passwords. Without approval from the
second factor, a password alone won’t provide access if hacked, guessed, or even phished.

4. Keeping Security Patches Updated

Whenever software is vulnerable, security patches are issued to fix the issue. The term
vulnerability refers to a weakness in software that malicious individuals can exploit.

These vulnerabilities may have a theoretical aspect, but they can have serious
consequences. Someone with physical access could steal all your files if your operating
system has a flaw that allows anyone to gain administrative privileges. Your private
information could be exposed by a flaw in an app that leaks data.

5. Avoid Phishing Attempts

Ensure your computer is protected from malicious messages by installing anti-phishing and
anti-spam software. Other types of threats are prevented by antivirus malware. Security
researchers program anti-malware software to detect even the stealthiest malware, just as
they do with anti-spam software.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 8/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

6. Perform Regular Scans for Backdoors

Backdoors are one of the widespread problems. Security measures govern access to
internet-facing services or infrastructure behind them, which are all protected by security
measures. As well as supporting various parameters and configurations that enable the
security mechanisms to function, they are also supported by the various security
implementations.

Backdoor conditions may occur if such parameters are not configured correctly. It is possible
for IT admins to accidentally or intentionally enable anonymous access for specific purposes
without thinking about the security implications and then forget to disable it afterwards.

Advanced Persistent Threat Examples

The first step in detecting persistent threats is to know how these attackers operate. They
are usually well-educated on the organization they are targeting, which allows them to
change tactics quickly and evade detection.

New tactics and techniques are created to stay a step ahead of detection. While detecting a
persistent threat and having a quick APT solution is difficult, it’s not impossible. The next
step is to understand how attackers operate to identify the best ways to detect their
activities. Two primary methods of detecting persistent threats are tracking and analysis.

An APT is usually sponsored by a nation or a very large organization. Examples of APTs

include Iran's nuclear program and Hydraq, which Stuxnet brought to an end. Iran's ability
to enrich uranium was slowed in 2010 by cyberattacks by the United States and Israel. In
comparison to other viruses or worms, Stuxnet was unique. Centrifuges that enrich uranium
are destroyed instead of hijacked or stolen by malware. To accomplish this, one required
intricate programming. Stuxnet targeted industrial control systems and CPUs from Siemens.

As part of Operation Aurora in 2009, Hydraq was used to attack Google and other U.S.
companies. The malicious Trojan horse Hydraq was installed using a zero-day exploit,
reportedly from China, as part of Operation Aurora. A Google spokesperson revealed the
attack in January 2010. Rackspace, Juniper Networks, and Adobe Systems were among the
victims. Even though various banks, defence contractors, security vendors, oil and gas
companies, technology companies, and others were attacked, they didn't publicize the
incident.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 9/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

APT Detection and Protection

The first step in detecting persistent threats is to be aware of how these attackers operate.
They are usually well-educated on the organization they are targeting, which gives them the
ability to change tactics quickly and evade detection.

New tactics and techniques are created to stay a step ahead of detection. While it’s difficult
to detect a persistent threat and have a quick APT solution, it’s not impossible. The next step
is to understand how attackers operate to identify the best ways to detect their activities.
Two primary methods of detecting persistent threats are tracking and analysis.

1. Email filtering
During email filtering, the software automatically moves unwanted emails to a separate
folder after analyzing them for red flags that signal phishing. You are more likely to lose your
personal sensitive information such as banking or identity number when you click on a
phishing email. The sole purpose of phishing emails is to steal your personal information.

2. Endpoint protection
Data and workflows associated with individual devices on your network are protected
through endpoint security. Endpoint protection platforms examine files as they enter the
network. With endpoint security, you'll not only be protected from malicious software, you'll
also be protected against evolving zero-day threats.

3. Access control
Providing access to and using company information and resources is a fundamental
component of data security. By authenticating and authorizing users, access control policies
ensure they have access to company data in accordance with their claims.

4. Monitoring of traffic, user and entity behavior

Monitoring network events generated each day by users, users, and entities is the process of
gathering insight into their behavior. By collecting and analyzing this data, you can identify
compromised credentials, lateral movement, and other malicious activity.

Most Common Tactics Used by APTs

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 10/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

In order to fully understand APTs, it is essential to understand their flexibility. In addition to

launching sophisticated attacks, they also launch very basic attacks. Sometimes, a simple
attack works for an adversary just as much as it does for anyone else. Here are the common
advanced persistent threat list that are used by the hackers:

1. Spear phishing
Phishing is the primary attack vector of most attacks, including advanced persistent threats.
APTs sometimes use phishing attacks to spread their malicious influence widely, while spear
phishing is sometimes used to target specific individuals or businesses. By engaging in
phishing scams, users' login credentials are commonly exposed or malware is installed on
their machines.

2. Watering hole attack

Similar to phishing attacks, watering holes use legitimate websites infected with malware to
deliver malicious payloads or steal credentials. Watering holes are targeted by attackers who
corrupt websites that people are likely to visit.

3. Privilege escalation
As the name implies, privilege escalation is an attack where users are granted elevated
rights or privileges beyond what is provided. The attacker may be an outsider or an insider.
An important part of the cyberattack chain involves privilege escalation vulnerabilities, such
as system bugs, misconfigurations, or inadequate access controls.

4. Credential harvesting
In Credential Harvesting (or Account Harvesting), large amounts of credentials are obtained
via MITM attacks, DNS poisoning, phishing, and other methods. Assailants aggregate large
quantities of credentials for sale on the dark web and in other covert channels.

5. Data exfiltration
Several different terms are used to describe data exfiltration, including data exportation and
data theft. These terms refer to data transfer from a computer or other device without
authorization. A person with physical access to a computer can perform data exfiltration
manually, but a malicious computer program can also achieve it over the network.

Conclusion Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 11/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Advanced persistent threat attacks pose a serious risk to organizations and can result in the
loss of critical information. To prevent these attacks, you must understand the hackers and
what they are trying to do on your network. The best way to prevent an advanced persistent
threat attack is to secure your systems and prevent unauthorized access. Many APT
protection tools are available that can help you do this, and many are free.

One of the best advanced persistent threat prevention is you need to protect your systems
and prevent unauthorized access. These hackers often use legitimate tools and methods to
achieve their goals and the best way to prevent them is to secure your systems and prevent
unauthorized access. Take a look at the KnowledgeHut’s Best CEH Course and enroll yourself
today!

Shweta Lakhwani
Author
Shweta Lakhwani runs a travel business - "Voyage Planner" based in Ahmedabad (Gujarat), India. In addition,
she is a freelance writer and wins her clients with her creative writing skill. She creates content on various
topics such as travel, entertainment, self-help, science, education, information technology (IT),
cryptocurrency, insurance, medical, real estate, personal growth, business development, health care, and
lifestyle. She is also a Brand Ambassador at the Isla Ida Bracelet and a partner at the Eden Reforestation
Projects. She advocates free and life-changing travel experiences while positively influencing the planet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between APT and malware?

An APT takes a more strategic and stealthy approach than most malware. By using
traditional malware such as Trojans and phishing, attackers gain access to networks,
but they then move around secretly and install their attack software throughout.

2. What are APTs what are they used for?

When an APT achieves multiple points of entry into the targeted network, the attacker
can retain access even if a cybersecurity defender discovers the malicious activity. This
will enable defenders to close one breach.
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 12/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

3. What is the goal of an APT attack?

Usually, APT attacks target monitoring, stealing data, or embedding themselves deeply
in an organization to make them tougher to detect and prevent in the future. APT
attacks can hide and lurk in their victims' network for weeks, months, or even years.

4. How do most advanced persistent threats begin?

It is a type of attack that stealthily gains unauthorized access to network data with
advanced persistent threats. An ATP breach is a sophisticated attack that can remain
undetected for a considerable period of time once it passes security barriers.

Upcoming Cyber Security Batches & Dates

Name Date Fee Know more

Cohort starts on 03 Jul 2023, Weekday

CISA® INR 1,35,945 View Details
batch

Certified Ethical Hacking Course Cohort starts on 15 Jul 2023,

INR 41,000 View Details
(CEH® v12) Weekend batch

Cohort starts on 08 Jul 2023,

CISM® INR 1,35,945 View Details
Weekend batch

Cohort starts on 08 Jul 2023,

CISSP® INR 1,35,945 View Details
Weekend batch

To be announced
CCSP Certification Training To be announced shortly View Details
shortly

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 13/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Connect with us

Get Our Weekly Newsletter

We Accept

USA: +1-469-442-0620, +1-832-684-0080

India: +91-84484-45027
Toll Free: 1800-121-9232

UK: +44-2036085923

Singapore: +65-315-83941

Malaysia: +601548770914

Canada: +1-613-707-0763

New Zealand: +64-36694791

Ireland: +353-14402544

Australia: +61-290995641

UAE: Toll Free 8000180860

Company

Offerings

Resources

Partner with us

Support
Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 14/15
6/29/23, 4:11 AM Advanced Persistent Threat: Examples, Detection, Prevention

Top Categories

Top Courses

Disclaimer: The content on the website and/or Platform is for informational and educational purposes only.
The user of this website and/or Platform (User) should not construe any such information as legal,
investment, tax, financial or any other advice. Nothing contained herein constitutes any representation,
solicitation, recommendation, promotion or advertisement on behalf of KnowledgeHut and / or its Affiliates
(including but not limited to its subsidiaries, associates, employees, directors, key managerial personnel,
consultants, trainers, advisors). The User is solely responsible for evaluating the merits and risks associated
with use of the information included as part of the content. The User agrees and covenants not to hold
KnowledgeHut and its Affiliates responsible for any and all losses or damages arising from such decision
made by them basis the information provided in the course and / or available on the website and/or
platform. KnowledgeHut reserves the right to cancel or reschedule events in case of insufficient
registrations, or if presenters cannot attend due to unforeseen circumstances. You are therefore advised to
consult a KnowledgeHut agent prior to making any travel arrangements for a workshop. For more details,
please refer to the Cancellation & Refund Policy.
CSM®, CSPO®, CSD®, CSP®, A-CSPO®, A-CSM® are registered trademarks of Scrum Alliance®.
KnowledgeHut Solutions Pvt. Ltd. is a Registered Education Ally (REA) of Scrum Alliance®. PMP is a registered
mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc. CAPM is a registered mark of the Project Management
Institute, InREAD MORE

© 2011-23 KNOWLEDGEHUT SOLUTIONS PRIVATE LIMITED. All Rights Reserved

Privacy policy

Terms of service

Get a 1:1 Mentorship call with our Career Advisor Book free session

https://www.knowledgehut.com/blog/security/advanced-persistent-threat 15/15