Supply Chain Attack Definition:
A Supply Chain Attack is a type of cyber attack where attackers infiltrate an organisation by compromising a third-party vendor, service provider, or other partner in the organisation’s supply chain. By targeting less secure suppliers, attackers gain indirect access to the primary target’s network and data.
What is Supply Chain Attack?
In a Supply Chain Attack, attackers Exploit vulnerabilities in a third-party supplier or partner that provides software, hardware, or services to the target organisation. Once the supplier is compromised, attackers can use this connection to deploy Malware, steal data, or access sensitive systems within the main organisation.
Why is Supply Chain Attack important?
The purpose of a Supply Chain Attack is to bypass direct security measures by taking advantage of trusted relationships between organisations and their suppliers. These attacks are especially dangerous as they Exploit inherent trust in the supply chain, enabling attackers to access multiple organisations through a single compromised vendor or software update.
How does Supply Chain Attack work?
Supply Chain Attacks are typically carried out by infecting software updates, compromising hardware components, or Exploiting access granted to vendors. Common tactics include embedding Malware in legitimate software updates or hardware devices, or Phishing and Exploiting third-party credentials. Organisations often detect these attacks only after the attacker has established a foothold, making them difficult to mitigate.
Supply Chain Attack Examples:
Examples of Supply Chain Attacks include the SolarWinds breach, where attackers compromised a software update that impacted numerous organisations, and the NotPetya attack, which spread through an accounting software update. Attackers have also compromised hardware supply chains by embedding malicious components in devices before distribution.
Supply Chain Attack Issues:
Supply Chain Attacks pose significant challenges as they Exploit trusted relationships, making detection difficult. Mitigating these attacks requires stringent vendor assessments, monitoring, and implementing security measures like multi-factor Authentication and endpoint protection across the supply chain. Regularly reviewing supply chain security policies and using trusted vendors with robust security practices are essential for reducing risk.
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