Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly adept at using sophisticated techniques that mimic normal network activity, making it difficult for defenders to detect and contain attacks. However, defenders have a powerful weapon at their disposal – cyber deception techniques. These techniques involve creating digital assets that appear irresistible to attackers but actually act as tripwires, triggering security alerts when accessed.
At the top of the cyber deception chain is the honeynet, a network of computers that are designed to look like sensitive targets. The next level down is the honeypot, which is a single computer or virtual machine. The most granular form of cyber deception is the honey token, which can be an individual file, email address, or user account. Honey tokens are also known as honey credentials, canary traps, or canary tokens.
Deploying honey tokens is a relatively simple and cost-effective way for security teams to enhance their defenses. These tokens are designed to be accessed only by attackers, so when a security alert is triggered by someone accessing a honey token, it is a clear sign that an attack is underway. One key advantage of honey tokens is their low false-positive rates, reducing the risk of alert fatigue among defenders.
To make honey tokens as attractive as possible, defenders often give them enticing names such as “passwords.xlsx”. By creating believable decoys, defenders increase the likelihood that attackers will take the bait. Some honey tokens even collect information that helps defenders identify malicious hackers, such as their IP addresses or browser fingerprints. This can be achieved through the use of executable files or hidden linked images that extract data and send it to the security team.
In addition to providing early warning of attacks, honey tokens also offer another valuable benefit. They provide insights into the tactics, techniques, and procedures used by attackers, allowing defenders to adapt their defenses accordingly. By studying the methods used by attackers, defenders can develop more effective strategies to thwart future attacks.
Honey tokens come in various forms, each serving a specific purpose. Credentials, such as dummy usernames, passwords, API keys, and access tokens, can be planted across applications and systems to detect unauthorized use. Fake database entries containing high-value records, such as customer or employee credentials, can also be used as honey tokens. Dummy documents that appear to contain sensitive information, like Word documents or PDFs, act as alarm systems, alerting security teams to potential intruders or insider threats. Even dummy email addresses can be used as honey tokens, as any phishing emails received by these addresses indicate an intrusion or insider threat.
Executable files and web beacons are two other types of honey tokens. Executable files automatically collect identifying information when triggered, while web beacons initiate server requests that alert the security team when an attacker opens a file that contains them.
Implementing a cyber deception strategy with honey tokens requires careful planning and consideration of best practices. It is important to concentrate honey tokens in areas of the network where attackers are most likely to target them, such as potential entry points like VPNs, and locations where sensitive data is stored. The believability of honey tokens is crucial, as attackers are aware of deception techniques and may avoid obvious traps. Regularly updating honey tokens ensures they remain convincing to attackers. Additionally, effective alerting mechanisms must be in place so that security teams are promptly notified when someone accesses a honey token, enabling swift incident response.
Overall, honey tokens provide an effective means for defenders to identify attacks and gather valuable intelligence on attackers. By incorporating these cyber deception techniques into their security strategies, organizations can better protect their networks and data from malicious actors.