Cyber attacks aren’t just headline news—they’re a daily reality, with up to 88% of UK businesses falling victim to some form of attack. But while attackers grow more sophisticated, many organisations remain unprepared, leaving themselves wide open to devastating breaches.
So, how do cybercriminals work, and what can you do to stop them in their tracks? Let’s break down the anatomy of a cyberattack and explore how you can protect your business from becoming another statistic.
1. Reconnaissance
Every attack starts with research. Hackers gather intelligence using tactics like vulnerability scans, phishing, or even mining public information. That LinkedIn post or unsecured website? It could be their ticket in.
2. Weaponisation
Once attackers have enough intel, they move to weaponisation. Here, they craft malicious tools, such as malware, viruses, or exploit kits, designed to take advantage of the vulnerabilities they've identified.
3. Delivery
Next, they deliver their weaponised payload. This could come via phishing emails, compromised links, or unsecured network connections. Once inside, the clock starts ticking.
4. Exploitation
With the payload delivered, the attackers exploit vulnerabilities to gain access and control. The timing of exploitation can vary; some attacks are immediate, while others are meticulously timed for maximum impact.
5. Installation
Once attackers breach a system, they establish a foothold by installing malware or backdoors, ensuring future access.
Sophisticated attackers often blend in by creating admin accounts that mimic an organisation's existing naming conventions, reducing the chance of detection.
6. Command and Control
In this stage, attackers connect the compromised system to their command and control (C2) server. This allows them to remotely manage their operations, from extracting data to escalating their attack.
7. Actions on Objective
Now the real damage begins. Whether it’s stealing sensitive information, disrupting operations, or causing financial havoc, attackers often strike hard and fast.
Entire networks can be paralysed in hours, adding urgency to their demands.
8. Defence and Mitigation
This is where preparation—or the lack of it—makes all the difference. Organisations without a clear response plan often waste time and resources scrambling to contain breaches.
Strong defences like firewalls, intrusion detection, and real-time monitoring can prevent many attacks, but only if they’re properly implemented. Regular vulnerability assessments and a defined incident response plan can transform panic into swift, decisive action.
The Real Cost of Being Unprepared
The harsh truth? Many organisations already have the tools to protect themselves but fail to implement them effectively. Monitoring and reporting systems are often overlooked, leaving gaps for attackers to exploit.
Don’t wait for the worst to happen. Our cybersecurity team can help you conduct a full audit of your systems, ensuring you’re prepared to prevent and respond to attacks. Get in touch today to take the first step toward stronger security
