A targeted attack strategy where the attacker compromises a website frequently visited by a specific group of targets, infecting visitors with malware — named after predators that ambush prey at water sources.
A targeted attack strategy where the attacker compromises a website frequently visited by a specific group of targets, infecting visitors with malware — named after predators that ambush prey at water sources.
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Watering hole attacks are named after the hunting strategy of predators that wait by water sources where prey must eventually come to drink. Similarly, attackers identify websites that their targets regularly visit and compromise those sites to distribute malware.
This technique is particularly effective against well-defended organizations. Rather than trying to breach the target's security directly, the attacker compromises a website the target trusts and visits regularly — an industry forum, a supply chain vendor's portal, or a trade publication.
Watering hole attacks are often used by nation-state actors targeting specific industries, government agencies, or activist groups. The attacks can remain undetected for months, silently compromising visitors' systems.
In 2021, a watering hole attack targeting the aviation and defense industries compromised a job portal frequently used by industry professionals. The attackers injected malicious code that exploited browser vulnerabilities, compromising visitors' systems and potentially accessing sensitive defense contractor networks.