Zero-day attacks, realized through zero-day exploits, aim to compromise systems. Cybercriminals exploit security vulnerabilities, and strategies such as browser isolation and firewalls minimize the risk.
These attacks are initiated by various groups, including cybercriminals, hackers, corporate spies and cyber warfare actors. They can be targeted or untargeted, with the former aiming at high-value targets and the latter often targeting users of vulnerable systems.
Despite regular reviews and updates by software developers, applications are often released with vulnerabilities. Attackers can use these to steal data, cause business disruption or launch complex attacks. Attackers may exploit vulnerabilities before the software vendor discovers them.
Zero-day attacks exploit various vulnerabilities such as buffer overflows, faulty algorithms, URL redirects and password issues. Threat actors can steal money or sensitive data, disrupt operations or use the machine for DDoS attacks. A multi-layered defense is required to protect against such attacks.