15 Endpoint Security Threats Businesses Should Know About in '24

Endpoint security is one of the important concerns businesses face. The strain placed on businesses is a result of a number of end effects, including the increase in IoT device usage, BYOD adoptions, hybrid remote working, and cybersecurity laws pertaining to sensitive data, including personal information. Here are the endpoint security statistics for the previously discussed effects.

By raising awareness of known endpoint security threats, potential incidents that lead to data breaches and data loss can be overcome. Though education helps, further action is required for the protection of endpoints. For more endpoint security best practices

This article outlines common endpoint security threats by defining results, threat actors, and the methods used by threat actors.

Endpoint security threats analyzed

Endpoint security threats can be categorized into several categories, each representing different types of risks and potential attacks. The following is a list of indexed endpoint security threat actors and methods that cause security incidents and could potentially result in:

• Data breach: Unauthorized access to sensitive or confidential information, resulting in its exposure or theft. Confidential data, such as corporate data and personal information, is at risk.
• Data loss: Accidental or intentional loss of data through actions such as deletion, corruption, or improper handling. Data loss prevention (DLP) tools are widely used to defeat data loss.

Hacking & unauthorized access

Hacking is a broad term that encompasses various activities related to gaining unauthorized access to endpoints, computer systems, or data. It can involve exploiting vulnerabilities in software or hardware, circumventing security measures, or manipulating systems for malicious purposes. Hacking can range from relatively harmless activities like exploring and testing the security of systems (often called ethical hacking or penetration testing) to more malicious actions such as stealing sensitive information, disrupting services, or causing financial or reputational harm.

1. Remote code execution (RCE)

Exploiting vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code on a remote system. For example, Log4j is a frequently used Java library, and in 2021 it was exploited with an RCE vulnerability.¹

2. Brute force attacks

Attempting to gain access to systems or accounts by systematically trying all possible passwords or passphrases. In order to safeguard network and endpoint security, authentication and authorization tools are widely used.

3. Code tampering

Through unauthorized access to the source code of an application, attackers change the source code in such a way that it becomes vulnerable or malicious. For more on source code security

4. Social engineering

Social engineering is a tactic used by hackers and malicious actors to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information, providing access to restricted systems, or performing certain actions that may compromise security. Unlike traditional hacking methods that focus on exploiting technical vulnerabilities in systems, social engineering exploits human psychology and behavior to gain unauthorized access or obtain sensitive information.

• 5. Phishing: Attempts to trick users into providing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data through incorporating malicious links and attachments on emails and websites. Spear phishing is a type of phishing that targets specific individuals or organizations and performs customized attacks.
• 6. Eavesdropping: Also called data sniffing, eavesdropping works by gaining unauthorized access to data packets transferred in the network. Man-in-the-middle attack (MITM), also called in-path attack, is a kind of eavesdropping that uses confidential information to intercept communication between two parties by accessing it through weak network security or unencrypted endpoint devices, including mobile endpoints.

Malware infections

Malware infection refers to the unauthorized installation and execution of malicious software (malware) on a computer system, mobile endpoint devices, or network. Malware is a broad category of software designed to cause harm, steal data, disrupt operations, or gain unauthorized access to systems.

• 7. Viruses: Are malicious software that attaches itself to legitimate programs and spreads when those programs are executed. A USB dropping attack is an example of an attack that infects endpoints following a connection with virus-laden USBs. For more on preventing USB connection-led incidents
• 8. Trojans: Malware disguised as legitimate software that performs unauthorized actions when executed.
• 9. Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without human intervention.
• 10. Ransomware: Malware that encrypts files or locks computer systems and demands payment for their release.
• 11. Botnets: Enlisting the infected device into a network of compromised devices (botnet) to perform coordinated attacks or distribute spam or malware.

 Vulnerabilities & exploits

• 12. Software vulnerabilities: Weaknesses or flaws in software that result from denial of service and miseducation on endpoint security can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access or perform malicious actions.
• 13. Zero-day threats: Are attacks that target vulnerabilities that are not yet known to the software vendor or have not been patched. As a result, attackers gain control over the network and perform malicious activities until the vulnerability is acknowledged.
• 14. Lost and stolen devices: Lost and stolen devices are vulnerabilities and can lead to cyber incidents or data breaches if they fall into the hands of threat actors.
• 15. Advanced persistent threats (APT): An advanced persistent threat (APT) is a sophisticated, long-term cyberattack strategy carried out by organized groups, typically with significant resources and expertise. APTs are designed to infiltrate a target network or system and remain undetected for an extended period, often with the goal of stealing company information, disrupting operations, or causing other damage.

Threat actors

• Malicious insiders: Employees or other trusted individuals who intentionally misuse their access to systems or data for malicious purposes.
• Accidental insiders: Employees who inadvertently compromise security through careless actions or negligence.
• Other cyber criminals: Professional agents who are able to abuse security vulnerabilities through programming such as code tampering and reverse engineering.
• Cyber Crime as a Service providers: These act as intermediaries or facilitators, organizing and coordinating the distribution of cybercrime tools, resources, and expertise to other criminals who may not have the technical skills or resources to conduct sophisticated attacks on their own.

Source: Bundeskriminalakt.²

How to overcome endpoint security threats?

Overcoming endpoint security threats requires a combination of proactive measures, robust security solutions, and ongoing vigilance. Here are some key steps to enhance endpoint security and mitigate threats:

1. Implement endpoint protection solutions

Deploy advanced endpoint protection solutions such as antivirus software, anti-malware tools, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems to detect and block malicious activities on endpoints. Ensure that these solutions are regularly updated with the latest threat intelligence and security patches.

2. Use next-generation firewall (NGFW) and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)

Deploy NGFW and IDS/IPS solutions to monitor and control network traffic entering and leaving endpoints, detect suspicious behavior, and block known threats in real-time.

3. Enable endpoint encryption

Encrypt sensitive data stored on endpoints to prevent unauthorized access in case of theft or loss. Use full-disk encryption or file-level encryption solutions to protect data both at rest and in transit.

4. Enforce strong access controls

Implement strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), to verify the identity of users accessing endpoints. Enforce the principle of least privilege to restrict access to sensitive resources and minimize the risk of insider threats.

5. Patch management

Establish a robust patch management process to regularly update operating systems, applications, and firmware on endpoints with the latest security patches and software updates. Patch critical vulnerabilities promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation by attackers. For more on patch management and other endpoint management solution capabilities

6. Employee training and awareness

Educate employees about common cybersecurity threats, such as phishing attacks, social engineering, and malware infections. Provide regular training sessions and awareness programs to teach employees how to recognize and respond to security threats effectively.

7. Endpoint security policies

Develop and enforce comprehensive endpoint security policies that define acceptable use of company devices, remote access procedures, data protection measures, and incident response protocols. Regularly review and update these policies to address evolving threats and regulatory requirements.

8. Monitor and audit endpoint activities

Implement endpoint monitoring and auditing solutions to track user activities, system events, and network traffic on endpoints. Use security information and event management (SIEM) systems to analyze logs, detect suspicious behavior, and investigate security incidents promptly. 

9. Backup and disaster recovery

Implement regular data backups and disaster recovery plans to restore critical systems and data in case of a ransomware attack, data breach, or other catastrophic events. Store backup copies offline or in secure, off-site locations to prevent data loss due to ransomware encryption or destruction.

10. Continuous security assessment and improvement

Conduct regular security assessments, vulnerability scans, and penetration tests to identify weaknesses in endpoint security controls and address them proactively. Continuously monitor the threat landscape and adjust security measures accordingly to stay ahead of emerging threats.

FAQ

Further reading

• Top 9 Hexnode Alternatives Based on 10,800+ Reviews
• Top 5 NinjaOne Alternatives Based on 4.5K+ Reviews
• Top 9 Endpoint Management Software: 12K+ Reviews

If you need help finding a vendor or have any questions, feel free to contact us:

External resources

• 1. “Another Apache Log4j Vulnerability Is Actively Exploited in the Wild (CVE-2021-44228) (Updated)”. UNIT42. Accessed: 2/April/2024.
• 2. “The nine pillars of cybercrime supression”. Bundeskriminalakt. Accessed: 2/April/2024.