Honeypot Definition:
A Honeypot is a security mechanism designed to detect, deflect, or study cyber attacks by attracting attackers to a simulated environment. It mimics a legitimate target, such as a vulnerable server or application, but is isolated and monitored to capture data about attackers’ techniques and behaviours.
What is Honeypot?
Honeypots serve as decoys that mimic real systems, creating an attractive target for cyber attackers. They are set up to log and analyse all interactions, providing valuable insights into attack methods, tools, and vulnerabilities. Organisations can use this data to strengthen their defences by understanding potential attack vectors.
Why is Honeypot important?
The purpose of a Honeypot is to study attacker behaviour and identify security weaknesses by creating a controlled environment where threats can be observed safely. Honeypots help security teams gather intelligence on new attack tactics, detect unauthorised access attempts, and improve threat response capabilities.
How does Honeypot work?
A Honeypot is deployed by setting up a simulated system or application that appears vulnerable and accessible to attackers. It can be configured to log all incoming traffic and interactions. Some Honeypots are designed as high-interaction systems that mimic real environments, while others are low-interaction Honeypots that emulate specific services. Monitoring tools are used to analyse and manage the data collected from attacker interactions.
Honeypot Examples:
Examples of Honeypots include fake databases that attract SQL Injection attempts, or simulated SSH (Secure Shell) servers that record login attempts and commands. High-interaction Honeypots, such as a full operating system environment, capture in-depth attacker activities, while low-interaction Honeypots focus on specific services or ports, like a fake Web Server capturing HTTP attack patterns.
Honeypot Issues:
While Honeypots provide valuable security insights, they must be carefully managed to avoid becoming an actual entry point for attackers. Misconfigured Honeypots can expose networks to risk. Additionally, skilled attackers may recognise a Honeypot and avoid it or attempt to use it to pivot to other systems, so strict containment and monitoring are essential.
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