Reconnaissance: Understanding the important stage in cyber kill chain
In order to properly plan and carry out an assault, attackers need to obtain vital information about their target, which is why the reconnaissance step of the cyber Kill Chain is so important. For instance, in the Target data breach of 2013, attackers employed reconnaissance to find employee credentials and network vulnerabilities.
This information allowed them to penetrate the network, install malware, and steal millions of credit card details. By learning the layout and vulnerabilities of the target’s infrastructure during reconnaissance, attackers can dramatically boost their chances.
Reconnaissance in cyber kill chain
The stages of a cyberattack are described by Lockheed Martin’s Cyber Kill Chain, which assists organizations in identifying, detecting, and responding to threats at each stage, thereby improving their ability to prevent and mitigate cyber intrusions.
The stages of a cyberattack are reconnaissance, weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, command and control, and actions on objectives.
Passive vs active reconnaissance
Passive reconnaissance involves gathering information about a target without directly interacting with the target systems. Techniques include analyzing public records, social media, WHOIS data, DNS queries, and websites. The advantage is a lesser chance of discovery since there is no direct contact with the target’s network. Examples include checking LinkedIn profiles of workers and hunting for leaked credentials on the dark web.
In order to obtain information, active reconnaissance entails speaking with the target systems directly. Ping sweeps, port scans, network scanning, and banner grabbing are some of the methods. Although there is a greater chance of detection with this approach, it offers more precise and extensive information. Examples include employing tools like Nmap to scan open ports and doing vulnerability scans.
Techniques and Tactics
Footprinting
Footprinting is the first step, where an attacker gathers basic information about a target. This can include details like the target’s IP address, domain name, and general network structure. Think of it as collecting all the public data you can find about a company or individual online.
Scanning
Scanning is the next phase, where the attacker uses tools to find out which systems are active and what services they are running. This is like checking which doors and windows are open in a building. Techniques include pinging devices to see if they respond and scanning ports to see which ones are open and what software is running on them.
Enumeration
Enumeration is a more detailed exploration of the target’s systems. After finding the active systems and open ports, the attacker digs deeper to extract specific information, such as usernames, network resources, and shares. This is like peeking inside the open windows to see what valuables are inside and how to get to them.
Tools of trade
Nmap
Nmap is a tool used to discover hosts and services on a computer network. It scans IP addresses and ports to identify what’s open and running. For example, a security professional might use Nmap to scan a company’s network to see which servers are online and what software they are running, helping to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Shodan
Shodan is a search engine for Internet-connected devices. Unlike Google, which indexes websites, Shodan indexes devices like webcams, routers, and servers. For example, an attacker could use Shodan to find unsecured webcams or industrial control systems that are accessible from the Internet, providing a list of potential targets for further exploitation.
Maltego
Maltego is a data mining tool that allows users to gather and connect information from various online sources. It’s often used for visualizing relationships between people, companies, websites, and more. For instance, an investigator could use Maltego to map out the connections between a suspect’s social media accounts, email addresses, and known associates, helping to build a comprehensive profile of their activities and network.
Defense Strategies
Proactive measures
Proactive measures entail taking action to stop reconnaissance operations before they become an assault. For example, you may take early action by banning suspect IP addresses or strengthening security settings by employing threat intelligence services to keep an eye out for indications that someone is collecting information about your network.
Network Security
Network Security focuses on protecting your network from being easily scanned or mapped by attackers. Techniques include using firewalls to control incoming and outgoing traffic, implementing intrusion detection systems (IDS) to alert on suspicious activities, and hiding network details by using techniques like IP address masking. For example, a company might configure its firewall to drop packets from known malicious IP ranges, preventing attackers from easily scanning the network.
Human Factor
Involves training employees to recognize and respond to reconnaissance attempts, such as phishing emails or social engineering tactics. For example, educating staff about the risks of sharing too much information on social media or how to spot suspicious emails can reduce the chances of attackers gathering useful information from unsuspecting employees. Regular security training and simulated phishing exercises can help keep employees alert and informed.
Real world examples
Many famous cyber attacks started with reconnaissance, where attackers gather information before launching their attacks. Here are a few notable examples:
- Target Data Breach (2013): Attackers gathered information about Target’s network and found a way in through a third-party vendor. They used this information to steal millions of credit card details.
- Sony PlayStation Network Hack (2011): Hackers researched vulnerabilities in Sony’s network and exploited them to steal personal information of over 77 million users.
- SolarWinds Hack (2020): Attackers conducted extensive reconnaissance to infiltrate SolarWinds’ network through a compromised software update, leading to a massive data breach impacting multiple U.S. government agencies and companies.
Closing Thoughts
Reconnaissance is a pivotal stage in the cyber kill chain, setting the stage for more destructive actions. By understanding and mitigating the tactics used in reconnaissance, organizations can better defend against potential threats. Staying vigilant and proactive in monitoring and securing your systems can thwart attackers before they gain a foothold, safeguarding your digital assets from compromise.
