A zero-day exploit is when hackers take advantage of a software security flaw to perform a cyberattack. And that security flaw is only known to hackers, meaning. Software developers have no clue about its existence and have no patch to fix it. There are “zero days” to fix vulnerability because it’s already been exploited
What is a zero-day?
The term “zero-day” refers to a newly discovered software vulnerability and the fact that developers have zero days to fix it before it can be exploited by hackers
- Defined as a vulnerability in security software that is unknown to the developer or anyone interested in mitigating the flaw
- Exploit: when hackers take advantage of the vulnerability for malicious reasons
Examples of zero-day exploits
Cybercriminals will seek to exploit security holes and gain access to your devices and your personal information.
- Stuxnet, 2010
- A self-replicating computer worm disrupted Iranian nuclear plants, taking control of computers and altering the speed of centrifuges in the plants, ultimately shutting them down.
What makes a vulnerability a zero-day?
When someone interested in mitigating the flaw is unaware of it, meaning an official patch or update to fix the flaw doesn’t exist.
- Once the vulnerability is discovered, it is no longer considered an “zero-day.”
How to identify zero-day vulnerabilities
Scan internet traffic, examine codes of incoming files, and leverage malware detection methods
How do zero-day attacks work?
Cyberattackers might write or purchase from the dark web exploit codes to spot vulnerabilities in security software
- They deliver this by way of social engineering tactics or phishing
- Once downloaded and executed, the malware can cause havoc including data stolen, hackers taking remote control of devices, files corrupted, etc.
How to avoid zero-day exploits and vulnerabilities
Keep software up to date to ensure security patches are in place and to reduce the risk of malware infection
- Limit your applications because the less you have downloaded, the less data you’re putting at risk
- Use a firewall to monitor and block suspicious activity
- Educate yourself on vulnerabilities and seek out solutions when they are discovered
Who conducts zero-day attacks?
There are many types of cyberattackers: cybercriminals, hackers, hacktivists, corporate espionage artists, cyberwarfare attackers, and those who want to compromise a cybersecurity infrastructure as an act of war
Who are the victims of zero-day exploits?
Anyone who utilizes a compromised system can be a zero day exploit victim
- This includes individuals, businesses, government agencies, and everyday computer users
- A zero day vulnerability can pose serious security risks
- Exploited malware can infect operating systems, web browsers, applications, open-source components, hardware, even IoT devices
