During a routine analysis of network traffic, your team notices a series of irregular low-and-slow data exfiltration attempts to a command-and-control server. These attempts are highly targeted and sophisticated, demonstrating knowledge of the network's architecture and using encryption to avoid detection. Which type of threat actor is most likely involved in this scenario?
An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor is the most likely culprit. APTs are known for conducting sophisticated, targeted, and prolonged cyberattack campaigns against specific entities. The characteristics described in the scenario - knowledge of the network, use of encryption, and 'low-and-slow' data exfiltration to avoid detection - are all hallmarks of an APT's methods to maintain stealth and long-term access. Organized crime is primarily motivated by financial gain and may not be as focused on long-term stealth. Hacktivists are typically motivated by a political or social cause and often engage in more disruptive or public attacks. Script kiddies lack the high level of sophistication and resources described in the scenario.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What distinguishes an Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor from other types of threat actors?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What is 'low-and-slow' data exfiltration, and why is it effective?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
How does the use of encryption benefit Advanced Persistent Threat actors during an attack?