Zero-day attacks are types of attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in target systems that are not yet known. Because these vulnerabilities have not yet been discovered or fixed, they are not detected by defense mechanisms. Attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to infiltrate target systems and take control, gain unauthorized access, steal information or perform malicious actions. Zero-day attacks are also known as zero-day vulnerabilities because the target system’s developers or security experts have not yet detected or addressed the vulnerability.
The Dangers of Zero-Day Attacks
The dangers of zero-day attacks can be quite great. First, because these attacks are undetected, previously known defensive measures may be ineffective against such attacks. Attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to infiltrate target systems and steal users’ personal information, access financial resources or make unwanted changes to systems.
Secondly, zero-day attacks allow attackers to establish a persistent presence on target systems and create more attack opportunities. This becomes a constant threat, putting the security of systems at risk.
Thirdly, zero-day attacks pose a significant danger in that the vulnerability is exploited undiscovered, leaving target systems vulnerable and affecting a large segment of society. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to take measures to protect against zero-day attacks and to identify and resolve vulnerabilities as soon as possible. Let’s take a look at some of the major Zero-Day attacks in recent years.
Adobe
Company: Adobe
Date: 2013
Conclusion: Adobe, a company known for its popular software products, was targeted by a zero-day attack in 2013. Attackers exploited a vulnerability in Adobe’s PDF reader to infect users’ computers with malware. This attack was a major incident that affected millions of users and caused security concerns.
Yahoo
Company: Yahoo
Date: 2014
Conclusion: Yahoo, an internet service provider and search engine, suffered a major zero-day attack in 2014. Attackers exploited a vulnerability in Yahoo’s email service to steal the account information of 500 million users. This attack violated users’ privacy and severely affected Yahoo’s reputation.
Microsoft Exchange
Company: Microsoft Exchange
Date: 2021
Conclusion: In 2021, Microsoft Exchange servers were subjected to a massive zero-day attack. Attackers exploited four different vulnerabilities in Exchange servers to infiltrate target systems and gain unauthorized access. This attack posed a major cybersecurity threat, affecting many organizations around the world. Attackers could have used the stolen information for intelligence gathering, ransom demands or other malicious purposes. This incident served as a serious warning about the security of Exchange servers and once again emphasized the importance for companies to keep their systems up to date and resolve vulnerabilities quickly.
Defense Against Zero-Day with Penetration Tests
Penetration testing is an important component of protecting against zero-day attacks. Zero-day attacks exploit vulnerabilities that have not yet been discovered or fixed by the manufacturer. Therefore, you can protect your systems against zero-day attacks with regular penetration tests.
Penetration tests perform simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities and weak points in your systems. Through these tests, you can identify vulnerabilities that zero-day attacks can potentially exploit. During the penetration testing process, security experts test your system’s defenses using techniques and tools commonly used in zero-day attacks.
In addition to identifying vulnerabilities, penetration testing also provides recommendations on how to fix them. These recommendations may include updating and patching processes to protect your systems against zero-day attacks. Keeping the software and applications in your systems regularly updated is an important step in reducing the impact of zero-day attacks.
Penetration tests are also useful for staff training. Increasing the security awareness of system users and improving their safe usage habits can strengthen your defenses against zero-day attacks. Through training, you can make your users aware of potential threats and make them more resistant to social engineering attacks.
PlusClouds Penetration Testing Services
At PlusClouds, we help businesses strengthen their cybersecurity strategy by offering our customers a comprehensive penetration testing service. Our specialized security team is made up of experienced cybersecurity experts and tests our clients’ systems against attacks using the latest techniques and methods. In our penetration testing process, we work rigorously to identify our clients’ security vulnerabilities, identify potential risks and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Our goal is to provide our customers with the highest level of security and offer solutions to protect their businesses against cyber threats.
If you want to have a penetration test, you can start by filling out the Penetration Test Request Form on our website.