TL;DR
Network vulnerabilities — from misconfigured firewalls and unmanaged IoT devices to outdated software and rogue Wi-Fi networks — are weaknesses in your IT environment that attackers can exploit to steal data or disrupt operations. Understanding the six most common vulnerability types and knowing the right (and wrong) steps to take during an active incident are essential first lines of defense. Regular penetration testing is the most reliable way to stay ahead of these threats.
What is a network vulnerability?
A network vulnerability is a flaw or weakness in your IT processes that could allow someone to gain access, steal data, or otherwise cause you harm.
There are several types of vulnerabilities in network security. Some of them you probably know quite well. Others might surprise you.
We'll walk you through a list of common network vulnerabilities, and we'll end with a few steps to follow if you think you're experiencing a consequence of a vulnerability.
What are the most common types of vulnerabilities in network security?
Think of vulnerabilities as chinks in your armor. Some are large enough for you to spot quickly, and others might elude your attention for weeks, months, or even years.
| Vulnerability Type | Risk Description |
|---|---|
| Devices | unmanaged or unauthorized connected hardware |
| Firewalls | misconfigured perimeter protection |
| Internet of Things (IoT) tools | internet-connected devices with limited security controls |
| Malware | malicious programs including ransomware and spear-phishing |
| Operating systems and software | unpatched or misconfigured programs |
| Wireless access | rogue or evil-twin Wi-Fi networks |
When you're surveying your security landscape for potential problems, consider this list of common network vulnerabilities.
How can unmanaged devices create network vulnerabilities?
Hackers could use anything connected to your network against you, especially if devices aren't authorized or managed properly.
Your security landscape probably includes:
- Connected phones
- Computers
- Routers
- Servers
Do users secure these devices with strong passwords? Are they locked when unattended? Does the IT team know about all of them, or do employees use their own phones and computers?
How can a misconfigured firewall expose your network?
You can place a layer of protection between the open web and your server with a firewall. But don't rely on that tool blindly. If you misconfigure it, hackers could see all of your traffic or take it over.
That's just what happened to Capital One Financial in 2019. Hackers discovered that the company's firewall wasn't set up properly, and they stole personal information linked to 106 million people before the financial institution spotted the problem.
Why are IoT (Internet of Things) devices a network security risk?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to devices that are connected to the internet, even if they don't have a keyboard or a mouse. Everything from doorbells to refrigerators to exercise machines is part of the IoT, and they all could cause a breach.
IoT devices often come with preset security measures that are tough to change, and the items may have firmware you can't update. The longer they stay connected, the easier they are to hack.
For example, in 2017, hackers gained access to a casino database through a fish tank thermometer connected to the internet.
How does malware threaten network security?
Malicious computer programs run on your servers and do things you never intend to do. Malware is a major threat for companies, and it can take many forms.
Scareware, for example, entices clicks by convincing victims that they need to download files or click on buttons. And ransomware attacks follow, in which victims must pay a fee to regain file access.
How does malware spread through social engineering?
Some forms of malware deploy via social engineering. Hackers use something they know (such as a victim's name) or something they guess (such as something a victim needs) to entice a click. Spear-phishing attacks work like this, and hackers research their victims before outreach begins.
How do outdated operating systems and software create vulnerabilities?
Connected devices, including computers and phones, lean on sophisticated programs that run in the background. Developers update code as new threats emerge. But if your staff never updates the software, that protection never gets to their devices. And if the operating systems aren't configured properly at setup, even more problems could appear.
What happens when software goes unpatched?
In 2021, for example, a telecom firm experienced a breach that started with an old file-sharing program. The company's customers, suppliers, and partners were all impacted by the breach.
How can wireless access points be exploited by attackers?
A well-administered Wi-Fi system gives your employees access throughout your building or campus. In an evil-twin attack, hackers make a realistic-looking copy of a valid Wi-Fi system. Your employees log on without knowing they're working with a hacker.
Are you dealing with a network vulnerability?
Hitchy performance, unexpected actions, or strange notes from customers could indicate that hackers have exploited a vulnerability in your systems. What should you do next?
These are things you should not do:
| Action to Avoid | Why You Should Not Do It |
|---|---|
| Disconnect the machine. | The IT team needs to monitor what's happening in real time. |
| Reboot. | Some programs don't restart along with the computer. The IT team needs to monitor the program. |
| Fight back. | Even if you think you're an exceptional programmer, don't try to hack back. |
How can you proactively prevent network vulnerabilities?
The best way to ensure that you don't endure an attack based on a vulnerability is to test your system regularly. Find out more about how penetration testing works on our blog.
Frequently asked questions
What is a network vulnerability?
A network vulnerability is a flaw or weakness in your IT environment — such as a misconfigured firewall, an unpatched operating system, or an unsecured IoT device — that a malicious actor could exploit to gain unauthorized access, steal data, or disrupt your operations.
How do IoT devices create security risks for organizations?
IoT devices often ship with preset security settings that are difficult to change and may run firmware that cannot be updated. The longer these devices remain connected to your network without proper oversight, the more attractive they become as entry points for attackers — as illustrated by the 2017 casino breach that originated through an internet-connected fish tank thermometer.
What should you avoid doing when you suspect a network breach?
When a breach is suspected, avoid disconnecting the affected machine, rebooting it, or attempting to retaliate against the attacker. Each of these actions can interfere with the IT team's ability to monitor the threat in real time and may cause critical forensic data to be lost.
How does malware use social engineering to infiltrate networks?
Attackers craft malware campaigns using personal details or anticipated needs of their targets to trick them into clicking malicious links or downloading harmful files. Spear-phishing is one example, where hackers research victims in advance to make their outreach appear legitimate before launching an attack.
Why is keeping software and operating systems updated critical to network security?
Developers continuously release updates to address newly discovered threats. When staff delay or skip these updates, devices remain exposed to known vulnerabilities. A 2021 telecom breach, for instance, was traced back to an outdated file-sharing program, ultimately affecting the company's customers, suppliers, and partners.
What is the best proactive measure against network vulnerabilities?
Regular penetration testing is one of the most effective ways to identify and address weaknesses before attackers can exploit them. By simulating real-world attack scenarios, organizations can uncover gaps in their defenses and take corrective action before an incident occurs.
References
Capital One Suffers Massive Data Breach Due to Misconfigured Firewall. (July 2019). Long Island Business News.
How a Fish Tank Helped Hack a Casino. (July 2017). The Washington Post.
The Rise of Misconfiguration and Supply Chain Vulnerabilities. (February 2021). Hackerone.
How to Tell if Your System Is Compromised. The University of Tennessee.
