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APT (Advanced Persistent Threat)

A sophisticated, long-term cyberattack campaign typically conducted by nation-states or well-funded groups against specific targets.

What is an APT?

An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a prolonged, targeted cyberattack in which an intruder gains access to a network and remains undetected for an extended period. APTs are typically conducted by nation-states or well-funded criminal organizations pursuing strategic objectives.

APT Characteristics

  • Advanced: Sophisticated techniques and tools
  • Persistent: Long-term presence, not hit-and-run
  • Threat: Coordinated human attackers with clear objectives

APT Lifecycle

  1. Target Selection: Choose high-value targets
  2. Reconnaissance: Extensive research on target
  3. Initial Compromise: Spear phishing, zero-days
  4. Establish Foothold: Install backdoors, create accounts
  5. Escalate Privileges: Gain admin access
  6. Internal Reconnaissance: Map network, find data
  7. Move Laterally: Spread through network
  8. Maintain Presence: Ensure persistent access
  9. Complete Mission: Exfiltrate data or cause damage

Notable APT Groups

  • APT28 (Fancy Bear) - Russia
  • APT29 (Cozy Bear) - Russia
  • APT41 - China
  • Lazarus Group - North Korea
  • APT33 - Iran

Defending Against APTs

  • Defense in depth strategy
  • Continuous monitoring
  • Threat hunting programs
  • User awareness training
  • Incident response planning