Advanced Persistent Threat

An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a highly sophisticated, targeted, and sustained cyberattack in which adversaries gain unauthorized and often long-term access to a network. Unlike typical cyberattacks aimed at causing immediate disruption or financial gain, APTs are designed for stealth, persistence, and continuous data theft. Attackers—usually well-funded, organized teams, sometimes nation-state sponsored—spend significant time researching their targets, exploiting vulnerabilities, and adapting their methods to avoid detection.

APTs commonly use a combination of tactics such as spear phishing, social engineering, custom malware, and backdoors to infiltrate networks, maintain their presence, and facilitate ongoing data exfiltration or sabotage. Their goals range from stealing intellectual property and confidential data to sabotaging or even destroying critical infrastructure.