Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are among the most challenging and dangerous cyberattacks organizations face. These attacks are usually orchestrated by highly funded adversaries who infiltrate networks, remain hidden for extended periods, and quietly work to steal data or cause disruption. Because of their complexity, traditional security measures often fall short in addressing APTs.

According to Crowdstrike, the goals of APTs fall into four categories:

• Cyber Espionage

• eCrime for financial gain

• Hacktivism

• Destruction

In this post, we’ll look at how NVIS AI leverages Layer 2 encryption, Zero Trust principles, and Ethereum blockchain technology to provide an effective shield against APTs, safeguarding critical data.

What makes APTs so dangerous?

APTs follow a calculated, multi-step attack process:

1. Initial Breach: Attackers typically gain access through tactics like phishing, exploiting software vulnerabilities, or deploying malware.

2. Persistence: After the breach, attackers find ways to maintain long-term access, using advanced methods to stay hidden.

3. Lateral Movement: They navigate through the network, seeking high-value data or systems to compromise.

4. Data Theft or Attack Execution: At this stage, they either steal sensitive data or launch damaging actions like deploying ransomware.

Because APTs rely on stealth and undetected movement within networks, NVIS AI's advanced security features can halt these threats at before malicious actors take advantage of a system.

Protecting data in transit: Layer 2 encryption

One way APTs extract value is by intercepting sensitive data during transmission. Whether it's internal communications or stolen data being sent out, attackers exploit weak or unprotected channels. NVIS AI's Layer 2 encryption mitigates this risk.

How It Works: NVIS AI encrypts data at the data link layer (Layer 2), adding a robust layer of protection to communications within the network. This ensures that even if attackers gain access, they cannot intercept or alter the data in transit.

APTs Defense: If attackers intercept network traffic, the encryption ensures the data remains unreadable, significantly limiting their ability to extract useful information. This also helps organizations meet data protection standards like GDPR and HIPAA.

Stopping lateral movement: Zero Trust architecture

A hallmark of APTs is the ability to move undetected within a network, escalating privileges and moving toward more valuable assets. NVIS AI’s Zero Trust architecture effectively combats this strategy.

How It Works: Zero Trust operates on the idea that no entity (whether inside or outside the network) should be trusted automatically. Each access request is verified based on identity, device health, and other factors.

APTs Defense: Even if attackers gain access to one part of the network, Zero Trust policies prevent them from freely moving to other areas. Each access point requires new authentication, making lateral movement much more difficult for attackers.

Preserving data integrity: Ethereum blockchain technology

Ensuring that data remains unaltered during an attack is crucial for effective defense. NVIS AI uses Ethereum blockchain technology to maintain data integrity and secure logs against tampering.

How It Works: The blockchain creates decentralized, immutable records of all network activities, from access attempts to data transfers. These records are stored on a distributed ledger, making it impossible to alter them without detection.

APTs Defense: APT actors often try to cover their tracks by altering logs or deleting evidence of their actions. With NVIS AI’s blockchain-based audit trails, any tampering is immediately flagged, allowing security teams to trace the attack and understand its scope. This also helps meet regulatory requirements like those in GDPR and HIPAA.

A comprehensive defense strategy: Encryption, Zero Trust, and blockchain

NVIS AI's layered security model is designed to address APTs on multiple fronts:

• Layer 2 Encryption ensures that intercepted data remains encrypted and inaccessible.

• Zero Trust Architecture stops attackers from moving freely within the network.

• Blockchain Technology provides immutable audit trails, preventing attackers from covering their tracks.

This holistic approach not only protects critical data but also helps organizations maintain compliance with strict regulations.

Conclusion

APTs are some of the most sophisticated cyber threats, but NVIS AI offers a powerful defense. With advanced Layer 2 encryption, a Zero Trust architecture, and blockchain technology, NVIS AI equips organizations to prevent these persistent threats. By adopting these innovative security measures, businesses can protect their sensitive data and stay ahead of ever-evolving cyber adversaries.

Contact NVIS AI today to secure your network from APTs!