Week 1 assignment capstone
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American Public University *
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Course
ISSC499
Subject
Information Systems
Date
Apr 28, 2024
Type
docx
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6
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1
Briefing for Executive Management: Addressing a Variety of Threats Following a Compromise
of Critical IT Infrastructure
Luis Muniz
4/7/2023
ISSC499 B001 Spring 2024
Dr. Ron L. Booth
2
Background
In light of the recent compromise of our critical IT infrastructure, it is crucial to understand the various types of threats posed by attackers. These threats can originate from both external sources, such as malicious actors outside the organization, as well as internal ones, such as insiders with privileged access. Below, we delve into the different types of threats and their characteristics:
Malware Attacks
Malware, short for malicious software, encompasses a wide range of threats including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. These malicious programs are designed to infiltrate systems, steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, or extort money. Malware can be delivered through various vectors such as email attachments, infected websites, or removable media [1].
Phishing and Social Engineering
Phishing attacks involve the use of deceptive emails, messages, or phone calls to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information such as login credentials or financial data. Social
engineering tactics exploit human psychology to manipulate users into taking actions that compromise security. These attacks are often the initial step in larger cyberattacks, providing attackers with a foothold in the target network [2].
3
Insider Threats
Insider threats stem from individuals within the organization who misuse their access privileges to steal data, sabotage systems, or facilitate external attacks. Insiders may include disgruntled employees, contractors, or business partners with legitimate access to sensitive information. Insider threats can be particularly challenging to detect and mitigate, as the perpetrators may have intimate knowledge of the organization's security measures [3].
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are sophisticated, long-term cyberattacks conducted by organized groups with significant resources and expertise. These attacks typically involve multiple stages and can persist for extended periods without detection. APTs often target high-value assets such as intellectual property, trade secrets, or classified information, and may be sponsored by nation-
states or criminal organizations [4].
Recommendations
To effectively mitigate the threats posed by the recent compromise of our critical IT infrastructure, the following recommendations are proposed:
Implement Multi-Layered Security Controls
Deploy a comprehensive set of security controls including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), antivirus software, and email filtering solutions.
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