What Is A Zero Day Attack?

There are many definitions of zero day attack. However, the general meaning is that zero-attacks are attacks that usually target publicly known but unpatched vulnerabilities. The software vulnerabilities can be discovered by researchers, hackers, security companies, or by users. The exploit will then be kept as a secret and circulate only to the ranks of hackers until the security and software firms become aware of the attacks targeting it.

The Pros VS the Cons

Once the vulnerability is detected by the good guys who include software vendors and software companies, the tendency then becomes to keep it a secret until they can make a patch to fix or repair it. However, at times the security researchers will have to openly announce the vulnerability so that users can avoid the problem that comes with the flaw. For instance, they will advise on the importance of staying away from a specific website or the need to open a particular email.

The vulnerability can also be discovered by a particular user and end up on different blogs or be publicly disclosed. In both cases, the race is still on. Software developers can help in making sure that the vulnerability is eliminated through finding a fix. At the same time, hackers, on the other hand, will do their best to exploit the vulnerability before it is patched.

Microsoft Attacks

Zero-attacks usually target Microsoft software immediately; they deliver the patches. Cybercriminals have come up with a way of taking advantage of Microsoft’s monthly security cycle updates through timing the new attacks as soon as the latest fixes are released. The attacks help Microsoft to be aware of and keen on the latest vulnerabilities. However, unless the new vulnerabilities are extremely dangerous, it will take a month before the software maker responds.

If the only option to avoid zero-day attacks is to wait for a new software manufacturer to fix their software eventually, then a lot of time will be spent waiting. However, the fact remains that there is no silver bullet that can be used in protecting your network from zero- vulnerabilities. But ant-virus protection and anti-spam can help your company stay safe.
A zero day attack can quickly bring down your company computer system by corrupting everything. However, as much as security companies are trying their best to come up with fixes that will restore your system. It is essential that you also take the necessary measures in protecting your company systems by installing the right antivirus.