An exploit chain is a type of cyberattack in which the attacker exploits numerous vulnerabilities in the victim’s system to execute a step-by-step compromise attack. These kinds of attacks start small. The attacker exploits a low-value loophole, and each next attack targets increasingly valuable vulnerabilities.
By doing this, the attacker can break down and overcome the security measures one by one instead of facing it head-on and losing.
To guard against such attacks, people and companies must set up measures that address vulnerabilities quickly to snip chain exploits in the bud. With robust security measures and rapid response protocols, there is some hope of mitigating these kinds of attacks.
Places exploit chains commonly occur
Exploit chain attacks often involve attackers with a wealth of resources, sophisticated tools, and the skills to use them. These attackers can and have successfully identified and exploited vulnerabilities in the distinct coordinated style unique to exploit chain attacks.
They often target high-value victims such as large corporations, government entities, and organizations with valuable intellectual property and critical infrastructure.
Exploit chains can also be used alongside a series of zero-day vulnerabilities (previously unknown flaws in the software, unknown to the public and designer, that is) and known vulnerabilities.
Since these attackers have many resources, they can afford to invest a lot of time and effort into any attack — making them very dangerous and efficient.
