What is Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)?

by Paul Davies

Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)

An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a sophisticated, stealthy attack that typically targets high-value entities, such as governments, corporations, or critical infrastructure.

APTs are carried out by well-funded and skilled attackers, often with backing from nation-states. These attacks are “persistent” because the attackers remain inside the network for a long period, collecting sensitive information, without being detected.

The ultimate goal of an APT is usually espionage or data theft rather than immediate disruption or damage.