eBook - Anatomy of a modern application attack

Detecting Log4Shell and protecting apps with Application Detection and Response (ADR)

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Executive Summary

Cyber criminals use application and API vulnerabilities for attacks. This is why it’s critical to improve defenses inside the application layer.

This ebook covers the mechanics of a common application attack, using the infamous Log4Shell vulnerability as an example and demonstrates how Application Detection and Response (ADR) technology — particularly Contrast ADR — effectively safeguards against such zero-day threats.

There was a 50% increase in zero days being exploited between 2022 and 2023, according to Google Threat Analysis and Mandiant.

The number of data breaches caused by an exploited vulnerability rose 180% year over year, according to the latest Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR).

55 days after a patch release, half of vulnerabilities remain unaddressed, according to the DBIR.

70% of critical application incidents take longer than 12 hours to resolve.

According to IBM, the average breach cost $4.88 million in 2024. However, when a breach is detected early, the average cost savings is $1.38 million.

How does a Log4Shell attack happen?

Every attack follows a series of steps.

From exploiting a vulnerability to executing malicious code, understanding the process is the first step in stopping it.

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ADR integration with SIEM/SOAR/XDR ecosystem

The integration of ADR technology with existing security information and event management (SIEM); security orchestration, automation and response (SOAR); and extended detection and response (XDR) systems creates a powerful synergy that enhances overall security operations.

Here’s how ADR can fit into and augment SIEM/SOAR/XDR-driven workflows:

The limitations of existing application security approaches

Let’s explore a common scenario where an organization has a web application firewall (WAF) in place as its application protection tool and an endpoint detection and response (EDR) tool for detection when an application attack spills over to an endpoint.

Contrast ADR in action

Understanding the Contrast Runtime Security difference

Contrast Security employs innovative ADR technology to detect and prevent attacks like Log4Shell at multiple stages.

Contrast ADR uses agent-based architecture, integrating directly with the application runtime:

Agent deployment

A lightweight agent is deployed within the application’s runtime environment (e.g., Java Virtual Machine [JVM] for Java applications).

Runtime integration

The agent integrates seamlessly with the application code, allowing it to monitor and analyze application behavior in real time.

Instrumentation

Contrast uses instrumentation techniques to observe code execution, data flow and API calls without modifying the application’s source code.

Response mechanism

When a threat is detected, Contrast can take immediate action, such as blocking the malicious activity or alerting security teams.

Click here to get the full ebook --> https://lnkd.in/gduyQ_mF