Understanding Device Compromise
The Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) is dedicated to bolstering cybersecurity across the state, and offers crucial support and resources to organizations seeking to enhance their digital defenses. Understanding how to protect against device compromise is more important than ever. In this blog you can learn some of the methods threat actors use to compromise your organization’s devices and some proactive strategies to help protect your organization from these breaches.
Access Methods
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field that demands constant vigilance, especially as threat actors discover new methods to gain access to your devices. Understanding the techniques used by these actors to infiltrate networks and devices is crucial for developing effective countermeasures. To help keep your organization safe, ensure your employees know about these techniques.
Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public WiFi networks are a boon for internet users on the go, but they also present a golden opportunity for threat actors. These networks are often unsecured, making them prime targets for various cyber attacks. Here's how they can be exploited:
Packet Sniffing: By using software designed to capture and analyze network traffic, attackers can intercept data transmitted over an unsecured Wi-Fi network. This data might include passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: In this scenario, the attacker positions themselves between the user and the connection point. Instead of communicating directly with the network, the user's data goes to the attacker, who then relays it to the true intended destination while simultaneously capturing the information.
Rogue Access Points: These are Wi-Fi connections that mimic legitimate hotspots. Unsuspecting users connect to these rogue points, thinking they are accessing a genuine network, while their data is being harvested by the attacker.
Avoid public WiFi if possible. If you have to use public WiFi, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt data in transit, and avoid accessing sensitive information. Turn off your device’s WiFi when not in use to prevent automatic connections to potentially unsafe networks.
Malicious Apps
The convenience of apps comes with its risks. Malicious applications, often masquerading as legitimate ones, can be a source of malware. Once installed they can steal data, monitor user activities, and even hijack device functionality,
Download apps from official app stores only, as they generally have more stringent security checks. Review app permissions carefully before installation, and be wary of apps requesting unnecessary access to your device’s features. Keep your device's operating system and apps updated to help protect against known vulnerabilities.
Phishing Scams
Phishing remains one of the most effective tactics in a threat actor's arsenal. These scams involve sending fraudulent communications that appear to come from a reputable source, often via email, phone calls, social media, text messaging, and messaging apps. The goal is to trick the recipient into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Always verify the sender's identity before responding to unexpected requests for personal information. Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking. Educate yourself and your team on the latest phishing tactics and how to recognize them.
Stolen Devices
Physical security is as crucial as digital security. Unattended or stolen devices can provide easy access to unauthorized individuals, especially if the device is unprotected.
Use strong, unique passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) like biometric locks where available. Encrypt sensitive data stored on devices, and install tracking software to locate lost or stolen devices. Use remote wiping software to delete your device’s contents should it be stolen.
Protect Yourself and Your Community
Empower yourself by staying informed and cautious. By understanding and applying the above points, you can better defend against the deceptive tactics employed by modern scammers. Please consider helping contribute to a safer community by sharing this knowledge and remaining vigilant. For more information regarding scams, cyberattacks, and ways to better protect your organization, contact the Arkansas Cyber Defense Center. You can visit our website at forge.institute/acdc, or call 501-239-9599. You can also register for free monthly training events here.
