Pivoting vs Lateral Movement in Cybersecurity: Key Differences

A cyber attack can be devastating for the image and financial stability of a business. Therefore, understanding how attackers move once they've breached a network is crucial for minimizing their damage or stopping them before they can do any damage. 

Cyber attackers generally move in one of two ways when they breach your network defenses: pivoting and lateral movement. These techniques are like secret passages that cyber attackers use to navigate your network and expand their reach from an initial point of access. This journey is often stealthy, meticulously planned, and aimed at compromising as much of the internal structure as possible.

Both pivoting and lateral movement involve a lot of reconnaissance and stealth. Attackers meticulously study network topology, user behaviors, and security policies to avoid detection while progressing deeper into the network. Understanding how these methods work helps you anticipate potential threats and enhance your defensive strategies.

What is pivoting in cyber security

Pivoting is when an attacker moves from one compromised system to another to gain access to the larger network. It is their way of navigating through the network from their initial breach point.

So, how exactly does this work? 

Let’s picture an attacker who has compromised a web server. This server becomes their base of operations within the network. It is their pivot point. From here, they can reach out to other connected systems, like databases or file servers. 

The pivot point is critical because it turns a single breach into a broader threat. Just like a game of chess, it's about positioning — finding the best spot to extend their reach and plan their next moves.

An attacker won't just jump from one system to another blindly. They gather information about the network's structure — figuring out which systems are connected and potentially vulnerable. 

For example, they might discover that this web server has access to a database containing valuable customer data. By pivoting, they can potentially exploit this newfound access and extract sensitive information. They may find ways to install backdoors, ensuring they can return to the network whenever they wish.

Pivoting isn't only about finding new targets. It also involves transforming the compromised system into a pseudo-legitimate user in the eyes of the network. This means attackers carefully craft their activities to blend in with normal network traffic, minimizing chances of detection. They might use tools like SSH or RDP to move around, or even exploit known vulnerabilities in connected systems.

When you understand pivoting, you start to see how a single point of entry can lead to widespread compromise. It highlights the importance of securing all aspects of a network, not just the most obvious points of access. 

Attackers are clever, using every trick in the book to expand their hold on a network once they've made it inside. Understanding pivoting helps you anticipate their next moves and better protect your digital environments from becoming their playground.

Common pivoting techniques and tools

Exploiting trust relationships

Let’s say a web server trusts certain IP addresses. An attacker might spoof these to gain further access. Once in, they often use exploits targeting known vulnerabilities. Tools like Metasploit are popular because they provide exploit modules that attackers can plug and play, making the whole process easier.

Using tunneling tools

Attackers might deploy tools like SSH tunnels or VPNs to create secure pathways that mimic legitimate traffic. This helps them stay under the radar. 

For example, they might set up a reverse shell using tools like Netcat or Socat. It’s like building a secret tunnel inside your network, which they can use at will without raising suspicions. Network security teams often miss these tunnels because they blend into the usual noise.

Leveraging proxy tools

Attackers might use tools like ProxyChains. It allows them to route their traffic through multiple compromised systems, effectively masking their true origin. This tool helps them appear as though they’re accessing systems from within the network, not an external source. Think of it like a secret identity that lets them slip past defenses unnoticed.

Let’s talk about some real-world scenarios:

Remember the infamous Target breach of 2013? Attackers initially gained access through a third-party HVAC vendor. They cleverly pivoted from this less-secure entry point to penetrate Target’s main network. 

By moving across the network, the attackers managed to install malware on point-of-sale systems, leading to the massive theft of credit card information. This shows how one weak link can lead to catastrophic results when pivoting is involved.

In another case, the SolarWinds hack in 2020 is a prime example of sophisticated pivoting. Attackers inserted malicious code into an update for the Orion software, which was widely used in various high-profile organizations. 

Once the update was installed, the attackers pivoted within these networks, exploring and escalating their privileges. This breached networks of multiple U.S. government agencies and numerous corporations for months without detection. It was a pivoting masterclass.

These examples highlight that pivoting is more than a technical maneuver. It’s a strategic chess game played by attackers. They exploit weak points, leverage trust, and use sophisticated tools to navigate networks stealthily. 

For those defending these networks, knowing the attacker’s playbook is vital. Every tool and technique they use teaches you how to fortify your defenses, ensuring that your networks don’t become their playgrounds.

What is lateral movement in cybersecurity?

Lateral movement encompasses the techniques cyber criminals use to find vulnerabilities, escalate access privileges, and reach their ultimate target once they breach a network. 

Picture this: the attackers have entered through a side door, and now they're stealthily exploring the building. This isn't about finding new front doors to break through, like with pivoting. Instead, it's about quietly moving through interconnected rooms and corridors. Attackers are in search of more juicy targets or ways to cement their foothold.

Let's say an attacker initially compromises a user's machine. With lateral movement, they’ll use this access to explore the network further. They’re after anything that can give them more control — administrator privileges, sensitive data, you name it. 

The attackers might leverage legitimate credentials they’ve stolen or use harvested login details to move around. It's like borrowing a master key and slipping into any room without anyone noticing.

Attackers may also exploit software vulnerabilities to progress from one machine to another. They look for weak spots, like unpatched systems or misconfigured devices. 

For example, they might find an old printer on the network with a security hole. By exploiting it, they can escalate their privileges and access more sensitive areas. They're always on the lookout for systems that trust each other implicitly, because these trust relationships are a goldmine for lateral movement.

Imagine an office where everyone shares a common kitchen. Once inside, an intruder might move between offices using shared facilities unnoticed. Similarly, lateral movement allows attackers to exploit shared resources like network shares or public folders. They might even install malware on these shared resources, turning them into unintentional aids in spreading their reach.

Consider the NotPetya attack in 2017. Attackers initially compromised accounting software. Once inside, they used lateral movement to spread across networks worldwide. The malware exploited the trust relationships within networks, causing widespread disruption. It underscores how initial access can lead to massive impact through lateral movement.

Understanding lateral movement is like realizing that an intruder is roaming freely in your space. They don’t crash through doors; they subtly navigate the premises. As defenders, recognizing these patterns helps you tighten your security and ensure attackers can't wander around unchallenged.

Common techniques and tools used for lateral movement

PsExec

This tool, provided by Microsoft for remote administration, is a double-edged sword. Attackers can execute commands on remote systems seamlessly, blending their actions into legitimate network traffic. It's a smart move because, to the untrained eye, it looks just like normal operations.

Mimikatz

This is a favorite among attackers because it pulls credentials straight from memory. Once they have these, they can impersonate legitimate users and slip through different systems undetected. Imagine having a VIP pass in a restricted area — that's what these credentials become for the attacker.

Pass-the-Hash

This technique involves capturing hashed passwords and using them to authenticate against other systems without needing the plaintext password. It's like having a lock pick that works on any door. Attackers love this because it lets them move fast. They don't have to wait around for passwords or crack hashed ones. They just grab and go.

For real-world cases, think about the infamous WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017. It was a stark reminder of how powerful lateral movement can be. 

Once the ransomware infiltrated a single machine, it used a vulnerability in the SMB protocol (called EternalBlue) to spread across the network. With this, WannaCry moved swiftly from one computer to another, encrypting files and demanding ransom. It crippled organizations worldwide, showing just how devastating unchecked lateral movement can get.

Another example is the Equifax breach of 2017. Attackers initially exploited a vulnerability in a web application. Once inside, they used lateral movement to scour the network for sensitive data, eventually accessing databases filled with personal information. They migrated silently, avoiding detection for months, which underscores the sneaky nature of lateral movement.

These cases show the importance of visibility within your networks. Attackers thrive in the shadows, using legitimate tools to mimic normal activity. As defenders, you must spot these patterns and block their paths. By understanding how they move, you can disrupt their actions and protect your systems from becoming their next big heist.

Key differences between pivoting and lateral movement

When looking at pivoting and lateral movement, it's crucial to note their distinct objectives and methods. Think of pivoting as the attacker’s strategy to expand their reach from a specific point. It’s like breaking into a single room and then figuring out how to access other areas using that room. 

On the other hand, lateral movement is more about maintaining a low profile while gathering credentials or data, like sneaking from room to room unnoticed.

So, what sets them apart? 

Pivoting is the first move after breaching a weak spot. It’s like finding a compromised server and then using it as a base to access other servers within the network. 

The attacker might use tools like Metasploit to exploit vulnerabilities from this initial access point. For example, after breaking into a web server, they may access a database server connected to it through existing trust relationships.

Lateral movement often comes after pivoting. Once attackers have infiltrated further, they start exploring the internal landscape. They're looking for high-value targets or admin credentials. 

Here, tools like PsExec come into play, which attackers use to execute commands on remote systems under the guise of legitimate traffic. For instance, in the Equifax breach, attackers moved laterally to access databases that held sensitive customer data without setting off alarms.

These tactics often work hand-in-hand during an attack. Attackers might first pivot to a new area in the network using a compromised host and then perform lateral movement to identify and exploit additional systems. 

In the 2013 Target breach, attackers initially pivoted from a third-party vendor into the corporate network, then moved laterally to gather valuable card information from point-of-sale systems.

By using both pivoting and lateral movement, attackers maximize their impact. They can start small—perhaps with a phishing email that provides initial access—and then pivot to other parts of the network. 

Once deeper inside, they engage in lateral movement, widening their reach and leveraging any opportunity to escalate privileges. Just like in the SolarWinds attack, they quietly maneuvered through multiple networks, observing and exploiting as much as they could over time.

Overall, while pivoting focuses on extending network reach, lateral movement is about sustaining stealth and finding opportunities for increased control. Understanding these differences helps you better anticipate an attacker’s playbook, reinforcing your defenses against their clever strategies.

Impact on company networks

When pivoting and lateral movement occur within a company's network, the impact can be devastating. These tactics allow attackers to transform a single point of entry into a sprawling breach, weaving through the network like threads in a tapestry. 

Once inside, attackers can access sensitive data, disrupt operations, and compromise the very integrity of the network. It’s like letting a fox loose in a henhouse—the damage multiplies quickly.

The implications for data security are immense. Pivoting turns a seemingly minor breach into a full-scale invasion. Imagine an attacker gains access to a web server with customer data. From there, they pivot to a connected database server, extracting sensitive information like social security numbers or credit card details. The impact on data security is immediate and profound, leading to potential financial and reputational losses for the company.

Let's not forget about network integrity. Lateral movement chips away at the trust within a network. Attackers moving laterally can manipulate, steal, or even destroy critical data. 

For example, in the NotPetya attack, attackers initially entered through a software update and moved laterally, causing widespread disruption. They couldn’t just encrypt one machine; they traversed entire networks, holding data ransom and paralyzing businesses. It’s a stark reminder of how interconnected systems can become liabilities when compromised.

These tactics can cause untold damage. Picture this: an attacker slips into a company’s network through a compromised account. They pivot to an email server and start exfiltrating confidential communications or manipulating information to serve their ends. 

It’s like having a spy in your midst, watching, learning, and striking when you least expect it. Just like during the SolarWinds hack, attackers gained persistent access to multiple high-profile networks, modifying software updates to their advantage.

Financial repercussions are just the tip of the iceberg. Legal ramifications, loss of customer trust, and damage to brand reputation often follow successful attacks. When attackers pivot and laterally move within a network, they not only steal data; they undermine the foundational trust users have in a company’s cybersecurity measures. It’s a wake-up call for organizations to bolster their defenses, ensuring their networks don't become an attacker’s playground.

Best practices for detecting pivoting and lateral movement in networks

Maintain network visibility

You need to see everything that's happening in your network. Tools like network traffic analysis (NTA) and intrusion detection systems (IDS) can help. They monitor traffic patterns, looking for anomalies that might indicate an attacker is moving around. For example, if a server suddenly starts accessing other parts of the network it's never touched before, that's a red flag.

Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions also play a critical role. They provide deep insights into endpoint activities. You can catch those sneaky lateral movements when attackers try to escalate privileges or access new systems. 

EDR tools like CrowdStrike or Carbon Black can alert you to unusual behavior, such as the use of PsExec in unexpected ways or Mimikatz attempting to extract passwords. They act like security cameras, watching every corner of your network.

Divide your network into segments

Network segmentation is your first line of defense. You limit an attacker's ability to move laterally by dividing your network into segments. Even if they gain access to one segment, they can't easily jump to another without triggering alarms. Think of it like a building with locked doors and checkpoints between different areas. Tools like firewalls and virtual LANs (VLANs) help enforce this segmentation.

Implement robust access controls

Ensure that users only have access to what they need by applying the principle of least privilege. This way, attackers hit a dead end even if credentials are compromised. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a must-do. It adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for attackers to use stolen credentials.

Conduct regular employee training and awareness workshops

Remember, attackers often rely on social engineering to gain initial access. By educating employees about phishing attacks and suspicious behaviors, you're adding a human firewall to your defenses. 

Regular training sessions, phishing simulations, and security awareness programs keep everyone alert. If an employee knows what to look out for, they can stop an attack before it escalates.

Tools and technologies are vital, but they're not the only defense. The human element is equally important. By combining technology with awareness, you create a culture of security that can adapt and respond to threats effectively. It's all about working together, using every available resource to make your network a tough nut to crack.

How Netmaker Helps Mitigate the Risks Associated with Pivoting and Lateral Movement in Cyberattacks

Netmaker provides a robust solution to enhance network security and mitigate the risks associated with pivoting and lateral movement in cyber attacks. With its ability to create and manage secure virtual overlay networks, Netmaker makes it difficult for attackers to navigate through a compromised network undetected. 

Features like Access Control Lists (ACLs) allow administrators to define and restrict peer-to-peer communication within the network, effectively segmenting the network and limiting an attacker's ability to move laterally. By enforcing these controls, organizations can ensure that even if an initial breach occurs, attackers are unable to exploit trust relationships or move freely between nodes.

Additionally, Netmaker's Remote Access Gateways and Clients feature provides secure remote access to network services, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry points that attackers could exploit for pivoting. This feature allows external clients to connect to the network through a secured gateway, ensuring that all remote access is controlled and monitored. The integration of OAuth for user authentication further strengthens access security, providing an additional layer of protection against credential theft and unauthorized access. 

Sign up for Netmaker to leverage these features for enhanced network security.