The recent TalkTalk cyber-security breach has brought the issue of security firmly back into the public’s psyche. It seems that regardless of your vertical market, the threat of a cyber breach is pretty much imminent.
Existing cyber security solutions are insufficient to stop malicious hackers and evolving threats. It’s little wonder why the Chancellor has pledged to spend an additional £1.9 billion on cyber security, committing to the creation of a ‘National Cyber Centre’ to respond to major attacks on Britain.
To tackle cyber threats, organisations are increasingly looking towards emerging deception technologies. These tools effectively deceive attackers and enable the identification and capture of malware at the point of entry, misdirecting intruders away from critical data.
Honeypots—software emulations of an application or server—have been around for some years. They work by offering ‘honey’ that appears attractive to attackers, who then expend resources on gathering it, allowing the honeypot to draw attention away from actual data. Decoys function similarly, causing attackers to pursue fake information.
Several startups are designing intrusion deception software that inserts fake server files and URLs into applications. Visible only to hackers, these traps can lead attackers in circles, effectively exhausting their resources and time.
Additionally, some systems protect against brute-force attacks by scrambling the attacker’s input, ensuring they never get the password right, even if they type the correct code.
Deception technologies create baits or decoys, making it quicker for organisations to detect security breaches and increasing the attacker’s workload.
Although not a ‘one size fits all’ solution, deception technologies are a valuable addition to an organisation’s cybersecurity arsenal.
Deception technologies could be a game changer for enterprise security strategies. They offer a proactive approach to tackling cyber threats and identifying breaches before they cause significant damage.
Adopting deception technologies is not a standalone solution but a vital component of a comprehensive cyber security strategy. The implementation of these advanced tools is crucial in staying ahead of malicious attackers.
Organisations must continue to invest and innovate in cyber defences to ensure they are well-equipped to handle evolving threats. Embracing technologies such as honeypots, decoys, and emulation engines paves the way for a more secure digital environment.
