Zero-Days Wins the Prize for Most Exploited Vulns

Zero-Days Wins the Prize for Most Exploited Vulns

November 13, 2024 at 05:36PM

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s report reveals that zero-day vulnerabilities were the most exploited in 2023, a shift from 2022. Key exploits stemmed from Citrix and Cisco. CISA recommends organizations enhance defenses with EDR, web application firewalls, and network tools to mitigate ongoing risks.

### Meeting Takeaways

1. **CISA Report Findings**: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released a report indicating that zero-day vulnerabilities were the most exploited in 2023, contrasting with 2022 where they made up less than half of such vulnerabilities.

2. **Longevity of Exploits**: Threat actors continue to exploit vulnerabilities even up to two years post-disclosure, although the exploit’s value often diminishes over time as patches are implemented and systems are upgraded.

3. **Notable Zero-Day Vulnerabilities**: Key zero-day vulnerabilities identified include:
– Citrix and Cisco vulnerabilities
– **CVE-2024-3519** (Code Injection)
– **CVE-2023-20198** (Privilege Escalation)
– **CVE-2023-4966** (Buffer Overflow)

4. **Recommendations for Organizations**:
– CISA emphasizes the need for organizations to regularly check for signs of cyber compromise and stay up to date on patching Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs).
– Additional recommended tools include:
– Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
– Web Application Firewalls
– Network Protocol Analyzers

5. **Reasons for Increased Exploitations**: There is discussion in the cybersecurity community around why zero-day vulnerabilities are more frequently exploited, with two main theories:
– Generally declining software quality.
– Cybercriminals are withholding knowledge about vulnerabilities instead of sharing it publicly, reducing the availability of proof-of-concepts (PoC).

6. **Mitigation Resources**: CISA provides various resources for mitigation efforts focused on:
– Identity and Access Management
– Protective Controls and Architecture
– Supply Chain Security

### Action Items
– Organizations should implement the recommended tools and stay vigilant in monitoring vulnerabilities.
– Engage in regular training and updates regarding vulnerabilities and mitigations to maintain cybersecurity integrity.

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