Multi-stage attacks Concepts Detection and Defense

Abstract

We live in a fast-paced world, surrounded by all kinds of technologies. However, unfortunately these technologies present weaknesses that exposes us to malicious attacks. The attackers are developing their skills and continuously find new ways of penetrating into systems where they have unauthorized access. These attacks can cause data breaches and losses and can even cause physical damage to the systems. By getting access to sensitive data, the attacker may steal the bank account details of an individual, their identity and even invade their privacy, which may cause a serious psychological impact. These attacks can cost companies huge financial losses, damage their reputation, and it might even place them in a situation where they have to face legal consequences for not being able to protect their customer’s data. This report will discuss multi-stage attacks, which is a very dangerous type of attack, because it’s not easily detectable. This attack, as it can be referred from the name, happens in multiple steps, where each step executed by its own does not seem malicious. However, all these phases executed together will cause great harm. This report will also present several proposed detection methods, as well as defence recommendations against this type of attack.