Zero-Day Exploit definition in Cybersecurity
A zero-day exploit is a cyber attack that occurs on the same day a weakness is discovered in software. At that point, it's exploited before a fix becomes available from its creator. Zero-day refers to the fact that the developers have "zero days" to fix the problem because it's already out in the open.
Notable Incidents
- Stuxnet, discovered in 2010: Targeted SCADA systems and was designed to damage Iran's nuclear program. Stuxnet Wikipedia Page
- The Sony Pictures Hack, 2014: Exploited zero-day vulnerabilities in the company's network, leading to significant data breaches and leaks.
How to Protect Your Network against Zero-Day Exploits
- Keep all software and systems up to date with the latest patches.
- Use advanced threat protection solutions that can detect and block unknown threats using behavior-based analysis.