17/12/2024​
Recognizing and reporting cyberattacks promptly is vital for minimizing damage. The Attack Kill Chain framework helps users understand the typical stages of an attack.
7 Stages of Attack Kill Chain, Signs to Look for, and Recommended Actions
1. Reconnaissance
Description:
Attackers gather information about the target, often through passive means, such as observing social media profiles or the company website.
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Signs to Look For:
i) Increased phishing emails or phone calls requesting sensitive information.
ii) Unusual interest in company operations from unknown contacts.
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Advice:
i) Do not share sensitive information.
ii) Report any suspicious communications to the IT security team.
iii) Avoid clicking links or attachments in unsolicited emails.
2. Weaponization
Description:
Attackers develop a malware payload designed to exploit known vulnerabilities in the target system. This phase is typically not observable.​
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Advice:
i) Stay vigilant by keeping all devices updated.
ii) Ensure that antivirus and malware protection software are current and functioning.
3. Delivery
Description:
The attacker delivers the payload to the target system, commonly through email attachments, links, or physical devices like USB drives.
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Signs to Look For:
i) Unusual emails containing unexpected attachments or links.
ii) Strange USB drives found on site.
Advice:
i) Avoid opening unexpected attachments or clicking links from unfamiliar sources.
ii) Report any strange devices or finds to IT security.
iii) Verify software updates through official sources only.
4. Exploitation
Description:
The malicious payload triggers, granting the attacker access to the system.
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Signs to Look For:
i) Slow system performance, crashes, or unusual error messages.
ii) Unauthorized changes to settings or unexpected software behavior.
Advice:
i) Immediately disconnect affected systems from the network.
ii) Report the issue to IT security without attempting to fix or reboot the system, as this could destroy evidence.
5. Installation
Description:
The attacker establishes a backdoor for continued access to the system.
Signs to Look For:
i) New, unrecognized programs running on systems.
ii) Unexplained changes in system configurations or unusual network traffic.
Advice:
i) Alert IT security promptly.
ii) Avoid using compromised systems for sensitive operations until they are cleared by security professionals.
6. Command and Control
Description:
The attacker remotely controls the compromised system.
Signs to Look For:
i) Strange programs initiating or mouse cursor movement without user input (indicating remote control).
Advice:
i) Report these observations immediately to IT security.
ii) Disconnect the affected system from the network if possible.
7. Actions on Objectives
Description:
The attacker achieves their goals, such as data theft, system disruption, or corruption.
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Signs to Look For:
i) Large, unexplained data transfers, files being encrypted, or critical systems malfunctioning.
Advice:
i) Notify IT security right away.
ii) Avoid paying ransom in ransomware situations, as this does not guarantee data recovery and could encourage future attacks.
Conclusions
Awareness of cyberattack signs and the Attack Kill Chain empowers users to report threats swiftly. Timely communication with IT security helps address incidents early, bolstering organizational cybersecurity.
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