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Hybrid Cyberattacks Explained

Hybrid attacks combine multiple types of cyberattacks to carry out their assault. The multi-vector approach makes them more difficult to stop because they can tweak their approach as detection measures close in on them. They also have more agility, leading to easier lateral movement to evade defenses. Nearly all modern cyberattacks are some form of a hybrid attack.

Some common combinations used in hybrid attacks include the hybrid brute force attack. This combines a dictionary attack with a brute force attack by starting with a known username and leveraging the tactics of dictionary and brute force attacks to find the correct username and password combination. Another example is a sensor data modification attack. Here, a bad actor will alter sensor data via the alteration of the sensor's software, the introduction of a fraudulent sensor, or the modification of cloud or server data.

A hybrid attack and a brute force attack have several similarities and differences. The main overlap is that a brute force attack can be a component of a hybrid attack, but it does not make up the entire tactical toolset. Brute force attacks are but one method in the hybrid attack, which needs to be agile to evade security measures. Threat actors use the network information at their disposal to change tactics and avoid detection, making brute force but one strategy for gaining access.

The Mechanics Behind Hybrid Attacks

Hybrid attacks are centered around avoiding detection and gaining access. They work by employing one tactic, then changing it as they near detection or look to access other areas of the network environment. The tactics can be discovered in the MITRE ATT&CK Framework, helping SOC teams and cybersecurity professionals understand adversarial tactics to best defend against them.

There are two primary goals of a hybrid attack: avoid detection and gain access. Here, the first goal leads to the second. Leveraging multiple vectors of attack helps keep security teams moving around to provide adequate defense while the adversary is lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce on opportunities to get a stronger foothold within a network.

Gaining access typically involves correctly cracking a username and password combination. Getting the password correct and gaining access to secure network areas grants adversaries a chance to steal the crown jewels. Should the exfiltration be successful, this can be detrimental to an enterprise. The damage can be financial, reputational, legal, or a combination of some or all of these.

Strategies for Mitigating Hybrid Attacks

Having a multidimensional cybersecurity solution that features an advanced NDR platform, threat detection, and cyber threat hunting is key to protecting against all types of attacks. Secondly, having a trained staff is another key facet of cyber defense, as an organization is only as strong as its weakest link. This includes training on spotting phishing attempts, password etiquette, and more. Finally, taking simple measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) to necessitate a second action to log into a key account can help mitigate many brute force and hybrid attacks.

How NETSCOUT Helps

NETSCOUT offers robust cybersecurity solutions, based on the Omnis Network Security platform. With our suite of products, led by Omnis Cyber Intelligence and CyberStream, NETSCOUT can help detect cyberthreats in real time to oust them from your networks, keeping them more secure more often.