10 Network Security Threats that IT Admin Should Aware

Network security is a critical element of protecting any computer. Understanding common network security threats is essential for constructing solid defenses. This article will discuss ten prevalent threats, their various types, and how they may impair an enterprise's security.

Part 1: 10 Common Network Security Threats

1 DDoS Attack

DDoS assaults transmit a large amount of data to a system, service, or network, causing it to cease working and causing downtime. They primarily target websites, online services, and network equipment, which may result in financial losses if services are disrupted.

2 Malware

Malware, also called malicious software, is any program designed to harm people, networks, devices, and environments. Malware includes viruses, worms, Trojan horses, blackmail, and spyware that target computers, servers, and cell phones, leading to data loss, system damage, hacking attacks, and financial losses for their target.

3 Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks

MitM hackers specialize in listening to talks between two people and making appropriate adjustments or changes. Attacks include packet sniffing and session hijacking target communication channels such as public Wi-Fi networks and internet connections. These attacks allow people to gain access to private information and infringe on people's privacy.

4 Phishing

Phishing schemes use deception to trick individuals into sharing personal data by imitating well-known firms. Spear, vishing (voice phishing), and SMS phishing can affect individuals, organizations, and workers, and financial loss and illegal account access can occur as a result.

5 Mobile Attack

Mobile attacks specifically target mobile devices, applications, or networks. Malicious apps, SMS spoofing, and bluejacking can quickly compromise smartphones, tablets, and mobile applications, leading to access to personal or financial details that should remain private and device compromise.

6 Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

APTs are lengthy cyber assaults orchestrated by funded people with high-technological tools. This typically includes surveillance, infiltration, and exfiltration. This attacks government networks, large enterprises, or critical infrastructure to gain unauthorized access, steal information, or potentially conduct spy activities. These activities lead to persistent unauthorized access, data theft, or potential espionage activities.

7 Social Engineering

Through social engineering, people are duped into disclosing personal information. Employees, people, and specific organizations are all targets. The end effect is unauthorized access, data breaches, and inadequate security.

8 SQL Injection

SQL Injection exploits SQL database weaknesses by injecting malicious code directly into it. This form of injection and Blind SQL Injection attacks against websites and applications using databases are known. This allows hackers to get access without authorization, update data, and even delete data.

9 Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

Harmful scripts are injected into websites by Cross-Site Scripting or XSS. So that it is visible to others. Subtypes of DOM-based XSS stored XSS and mirrored XSS all target websites, online apps, and the people that use them. Among the consequences are taking over other people's sessions, acting without their consent, and stealing data.

10 Insider Threats

Insider threats are individuals within a corporation who pose security hazards, purposely or unwittingly, by acting maliciously or recklessly. Such individuals could endanger company data, systems, and intellectual property, leading to security flaws, data breaches, and the leakage of sensitive information.

Part 2: What Are Some Latest Network Security Threats

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) first gained popularity during the early 2010s as sophisticated long-term cyber threats orchestrated by well-funded, organized groups with stealthy operations focused on stealthy persistence; APTs typically target high-profile entities like governments, large enterprises, and critical infrastructure and witnessed an upsurge of APT activity showing their evolution as cyber threats beyond simple attacks.

Cryptojacking

Crypto Jacking emerged in late 2017 and early 2018 as an illicit way to mine cryptocurrency without user knowledge, targeting individuals as well as organizations alike with malicious code designed to take over computing resources for crypto mining without their knowledge, leading to performance degrading activities that ultimately cause degradation for both parties involved. The rise of crypto-jacking highlighted the financial motivation behind cyberattacks during this period.

IoT-Based Attacks

Attacks against Internet of Things devices reached their nadir between 2021 and 2023 due to their widespread adoption and inadequate security measures, prompting cybercrime exploiters to target these connected devices as targets affecting individuals and industries, creating grave concerns regarding IoT ecosystem security.

AI-Driven Attacks

AI-powered attacks first emerged between 2023-2024, ushering in an array of complex threats powered by artificial intelligence. Cybercriminals utilized machine learning algorithms to maximize their strategies more successfully - making detection harder for traditional security measures. AI had quickly been integrated into cybercrime tactics, further complicating conventional security measures.

Fileless Malware

Fileless malware rose in prominence in 2017, becoming an emerging attack technique. Instead of the more conventional forms that use executable files as targets, fileless malware operates entirely within system memory without leaving traces - making detection and elimination more challenging and presenting security professionals with unique challenges.

Deep Fakes (AI threat)

Deepfakes, an artificial intelligence (AI) threat, have received much media coverage this year. These videos and audio recordings use deep learning techniques to manipulate content - usually for malicious use like disinformation spread or impersonation - using deep fakes has raised awareness regarding AI misuse as a cyber security risk.

Part 3: How to Defend Network Security Threats (5 Best Practices)

1. Identify Network Security Vulnerabilities

Vulnerability Scanning

Watch for vulnerabilities in your network infrastructure to detect possible flaws. Automated tools are invaluable for searching for known security holes within software applications, configuration settings, or system controls.

Penetration Testing

Penetration testing simulates real-life cyberattacks using ethical hackers who attempt to identify security flaws on your network that reveal information on its safety. This test can tell us much about its viability.

Monitor Network Traffic

Install network traffic monitoring to rapidly identify suspicious activities or unauthorized access in real-time with Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), providing real-time threat identification capabilities.

Review User Access

Maintain a regular review and update of user access privileges to ensure employees have sufficient access for their roles and revoke permission for those no longer requiring it.

2. Install Essential Systems and Software for Enterprise Network Security and Keep Them Updated

Enterprise Network Security Essentials

Ensure the presence of fundamental security measures:

● Firewall:Monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic.

● Antivirus and Antimalware Software:Protect against malicious software.

● VPN (Virtual Private Network):Securely connect remote users and offices.

● (Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems): Find and prevent threats against network systems.

● (Security Information and Event Management)SIEM: Collect and evaluate security data.

● (Data Loss Prevention) DLP Software: Safeguard your confidential information against accidental breaches in confidentiality.

Tools to Help Updating

Use essential tools to keep systems and software up-to-date:

● Patch Management Tools: Automate the process of updating software and systems.

● Configuration Management Tools: Ensure consistent and secure configurations.

● Container Orchestration Tools: Manage and secure containerized applications.

● Asset Management Tools: Keep track of devices and software in the network.

3. Regular Backups to Deal with Data Loss Incidents

Develop backup solid strategies such as the 3-2-1 backup rule:

● 3-2-1 Backup Rule: Keep 3 copies of any data you store in 2 different formats and with 1 stored offsite.

● Full Backup: Make a copy of the backup at one particular time.

● Incremental Backup: A backup of modifications made since the last backup.

● Differential Backup: Backup of modifications made since the last full backup.

● Mirror Backup: An exact duplicate of the entire data set.

● Cloud Backup: Store backups in secure cloud environments.

4. Implement Strong Access Controls and Use Strong Authentication Methods

Tools to Help Control Access

● (IAM)Identity and Access Management Systems: Manage user identities and permissions with these solutions.

● (Network Access Control)NAC Systems: Restrict and manage access based on policies.

● (Privileged Access Management) PAM Systems: Administer and monitor privileged user access.

● RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) Systems: Assign permissions based on job roles.

Strong Authentication Methods

Stronger login methods, such as Multi-Factor login and Two-Factor Authentication, should be used to make user accounts even safer.

5. Employee Training

Educate employees to avoid behaviors that could compromise network security:

● File Sharing: Caution against sharing sensitive files insecurely.

● Weak Passwords: Emphasize the importance of strong, unique passwords.

● Unauthorized App Download: Discourage downloading apps from untrusted sources.

● Scam Awareness: Give instructions on the spot and avoid scams.

● Unknown Wi-Fi Networks: Do not connect to untrusted Wi-Fi.

Part 4: Statistics Related To Network Security In 2024

In 2024, network security is witnessing dynamic trends and challenges, as indicated by various statistics and predictions.

a. Rising Cyber Crime Rates: Statistics demonstrate the exponential rise of cybercrime; by 2025, many analysts project that its total cost to global economies will reach an astounding $10.5 trillion annually. This large increase indicates how frequent and sophisticated threats against multinational corporations are also increasing rapidly.

b. The surge in Ransomware Attacks: Ransomware attacks have increased rapidly and become an ongoing threat. Statistics demonstrate a worrying rise in incidents targeting businesses worldwide, resulting both financially and operationally - something no business owner wants.

c. Emergence of Advanced Threats: Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) have emerged to counter increasing sophisticated cyber attacks against governments, companies, and critical infrastructure that target governments, businesses, or other vital areas - representing severe danger to both governments, businesses, and critical infrastructure by infiltrating long-term and targeted attacks using protracted infiltration techniques to endanger government, corporations or infrastructure in general.

d. Increased Focus on Zero Trust Architecture: Organizations increasingly adopt Zero-Trust Architecture as cyber threats evolve. According to statistics, an emerging trend is that organizations are moving away from traditional perimeter-based security models toward comprehensive and adaptive approaches emphasizing continuous verification and authorization.

These statistics underscore the dynamic challenges that demand organizations to fortify their cybersecurity defenses in response to an ever-changing threat landscape.

Part 5: High-Profile Cases of Enterprise Security Breaches