A new type of attacker has recently emerged, demonstrating the ability to weaponize web browsers. These attacks, known as Highly Evasive Adaptive Threats (HEAT), are particularly concerning due to their ability to evade detection, gain access to endpoints, and deploy dangerous threats like ransomware and malware. In fact, HEAT attacks can often be mistaken for Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), although there are important distinctions between the two.
HEAT attacks are characterized by their evasiveness and adaptability. Attackers aim to maximize their chances of success by understanding how to bypass specific security techniques or technologies that are typically in place. Whether it’s phishing detection on email or sandboxing, attackers know how to evade these types of detection methods, increasing their chances of successfully compromising a target. By remaining evasive, HEAT attacks can avoid detection and carry out their malicious activities.
The adaptive nature of HEAT attacks allows them to constantly change over time in order to maintain their evasiveness. For example, attackers may employ techniques to bypass URL reputation systems. Rather than quickly registering a domain populated with malicious content and malware, they adapt their behavior to mimic legitimate sites. By registering a domain for an extended period of time, populating it with relevant content, and ensuring it is categorized as legitimate, attackers can effectively bypass URL reputation solutions. If these solutions change their algorithms or detection methods, the attackers can adjust their tactics accordingly to continue evading detection.
While threats in general are increasing, HEAT attacks are also on the rise. These attacks are often used by Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) operators to gain initial access to target networks. Some attackers specialize in gaining initial access to as many networks as possible and then selling that access to other threat actors who wish to deploy their own malware onto those networks. This business model allows multiple threat actors to exploit the same network and increases the overall impact of the attack.
On the other hand, APTs are designed to be undetectable once they infiltrate a network. Unlike HEAT attacks, APTs focus on staying hidden in the network for as long as possible to carry out their objectives. They are often utilized by nation or state-sponsored groups targeting high-value entities, and more recently, by crimeware groups. APTs can involve activities such as reconnaissance, data and credential theft, or the deployment of ransomware.
Despite their differences, HEAT attacks and APTs are interconnected and can be used in conjunction with one another. While HEAT attacks gain initial access to target networks, APTs are responsible for the actual damage once deployed inside the network. These two types of attacks complement each other and can be combined within the same attack. For example, the Nobelium attack utilized HTML smuggling, a characteristic of HEAT attacks, to deliver APTs to its victims.
Cybersecurity teams should be aware of the growing threat of HEAT attacks, especially in the context of hybrid and remote work models. With employees working on various devices connected to corporate networks, it is important to treat all devices as part of a single system. This means that if a user’s personal device is compromised, it can serve as a gateway to corporate resources. The potential impact of a HEAT attack on personal devices should not be underestimated, as it can ultimately lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data.
To combat HEAT attacks, it is crucial to enhance education and awareness among users. Attackers are becoming more adept at tricking users into clicking on malicious links or downloading harmful files. By educating employees about the risks of HEAT attacks and providing guidance on how to identify and avoid them, organizations can strengthen their overall security posture. Additionally, there is a need for improved visibility into HEAT attacks. While prevention strategies are important, detection capabilities should also be enhanced to identify and mitigate these attacks effectively.
Furthermore, it is essential to have visibility into web browsers, as they are both a blind spot and a favored access point for attackers. Endpoint security solutions often lack the ability to monitor and analyze browser activity, leaving organizations vulnerable to HEAT attacks. By investing in solutions that provide comprehensive visibility into browser activities, organizations can better detect and defend against these threats.
In conclusion, the emergence of HEAT attacks highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats. Attackers have learned to weaponize web browsers, utilizing evasive and adaptive techniques to bypass detection and gain access to target networks. While HEAT attacks and APTs differ in their objectives and stages of the attack kill chain, they can be used together for more devastating outcomes. Cybersecurity teams must prioritize education, detection, and visibility into browser activities to effectively counter the growing threat of HEAT attacks.