During routine monitoring, a cybersecurity analyst discovers repeated attempts to compromise a system using a tool that automates the exploitation of a known vulnerability. The repetitive nature of the attempts and the reliance on a well-documented exploit suggests a lack of sophisticated attack planning. Which type of threat actor is the analyst most likely observing?
The correct answer is an unskilled attacker. The use of automated tools to exploit well-known vulnerabilities, combined with repetitive and easily recognizable attempts, are hallmark characteristics of an unskilled attacker, also known as a 'script kiddie'. These individuals lack the resources and expertise to develop novel attacks. Nation-state actors and organized crime groups typically use more sophisticated, customized, and stealthy techniques to avoid detection. An insider threat would already have some level of authorized access and would be unlikely to use this type of external, noisy attack method.
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What is a 'script kiddie' and how do they operate?
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What kind of vulnerabilities are commonly targeted by unskilled attackers?
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How can organizations defend against attacks from unskilled individuals?