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In cybersecurity, the attack surface refers to all attack vectors, or possible points, where an unauthorised user could attempt to enter or extract data from a system.
These points can include hardware, software, networks, and even human elements like employees.
Understanding and minimising the attack surface is crucial to protecting sensitive information and ensuring business continuity.
The smaller the attack surface, the fewer opportunities for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities.
Besides highly targeted attacks, most cybercriminals are looking for quick wins. By minimising your attack surface, you make targeting your business more time-consuming, which can be a deterrent in itself.
Components of an Attack Surface
Attack surfaces can be broken down into three main components:
Digital Attack Surface
The digital attack surface includes all online and software-based entry points. Examples include web applications, APIs, cloud services, and network systems.
Vulnerabilities in outdated software, exposed ports, or misconfigured firewalls can provide attackers with opportunities to exploit.
Similarly, unpatched operating systems or third-party plugins are common gateways for malware.
Click to learn more about the dangers of not keeping operating systems updated.
Physical Attack Surface
The physical attack surface involves all hardware and physical assets that unauthorised individuals could access.
Examples include office equipment like computers, servers, and routers, as well as physical access points such as doors, USB ports, and unlocked devices.
An attacker could gain access by stealing a laptop containing sensitive data or inserting a malicious USB drive into a company computer, so it is vital that company offices are kept secure to mitigate these risks.
Click to learn more about the importance of replacing legacy equipment.
Social Attack Surface
The social attack surface refers to human vulnerabilities, primarily exploited through social engineering tactics.
Examples include phishing emails, fraudulent phone calls, and impersonation attempts designed to trick employees into divulging sensitive information.
Educating employees and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness can help reduce this threat.
Check out our article to learn more about the importance of cybersecurity training for employees.
What is Attack Surface Management? Why is it Important?
Attack surface management (ASM) involves identifying, monitoring, and reducing the number of potential entry points for cyber threats.
It’s a proactive approach to cybersecurity that helps organisations stay ahead of potential risks.
The best approach is to conduct regular vulnerability assessments and at least one annual penetration test (it is also worth carrying out at least one annual physical penetration test if you have an office).
While vulnerability assessments are great for providing basic insights, penetration tests can simulate real-life attacks. These pentests give you a highly detailed understanding of the attack surface hackers have to work with and provide remediation advice to reduce it.
How to Reduce Your Attack Surface?
To reduce your attack surface, start by identifying all potential entry points, including hardware, software, and network components, using a penetration test or vulnerability assessment (if resources are limited).
To enhance security, regularly update and patch systems, enforce strong password policies, and use multi-factor authentication. Setting up automated system updates will ensure your business security does not fall behind.
Additionally, limit user access to only the data and systems they need. This principle of least privilege ensures that even if one account is compromised, the damage is contained.
Conclusion
As we’ve discussed, managing your attack surface is an ongoing process and should not be treated as a one-time fix. Remember, as technology advances, so do the methods used by cybercriminals, so vigilance is essential.
Take comfort from the fact that understanding your attack surface and implementing ASM best practices can help protect your business’s critical assets, including your employees, partners, and customers.
If you want to get a better understanding of your attack surface, book your digital or physical penetration tests today by contacting one of our expert pentesters.