Computer security has become a fundamental pillar for any business. Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and one of them is of particular concern: a zero-day attack.
This is a type of threat that exploits unknown vulnerabilities in software or systems, even before the manufacturer is aware of them. This makes it a formidable enemy to predict and, therefore, very damaging if not addressed promptly.
In this context, having tools that allow us to anticipate potential threats is a necessity. Kartos, Enthec’s cyber surveillance solution,has been designed precisely to address this need. It enables companies to proactively identify risks, continuously monitor their attack surface, and minimize the window of exposure to potential intrusions.
What exactly is a zero-day attack?
A zero-day attack exploits a vulnerability that has not yet been detected or corrected by the developer of the affected software. The term “zero-day” refers to what we also know as “release day,” referring to software or systems that have not yet been patched for vulnerabilities.
Meanwhile, cybercriminals can exploit this weakness to their advantage, making this type of attack one of the most critical threats to businesses of all sizes.
Learn more about potential vulnerabilities and how to protect your business →Real-time vulnerability management: a step forward in cybersecurity.
Zero-day attack: main features
Some of the characteristics that make zero-day attacks so dangerous are:
- They are invisible in their early stages: Because they are not documented, traditional security systems often overlook these types of threats.
- They exploit popular software: browsers, operating systems, email applications, or mass-use tools.
- High effectiveness: They can bypass antivirus or firewalls until an official fix is released.
- Unpredictable impact: ranging from data theft to total control of the system.
How to detect a zero-day attack before it’s too late
The big question is: If the attack exploits an unknown vulnerability, how can a company get ahead? There’s no single answer, but there are several preventive strategies that can make a difference:
1. Constant cyber-surveillance
The key is to monitor the entire digital ecosystem of the organization continuously. This includes not only internal systems, but also external exposure on the internet and the dark web, where exploits are often marketed before they are made public.
This is where solutions like Kartos provide differential value by offering constant analysis of the attack surface.
2. Behavior-based detection
Even if a zero-day attack isn’t registered in antivirus databases, its behavior can give it away. Analysis tools that examine traffic patterns, anomalous access, or unusual process execution are crucial for identifying suspicious activity.
3. Patch and update management
Although a zero-day attack exploits flaws that have not yet been fixed, keeping systems up to date reduces the window of opportunity for attackers. The sooner a correct patch management is implemented, the lower the exposure.
4. Reduction of the attack surface
A fundamental principle of cybersecurity is limiting vulnerabilities. This involves eliminating unnecessary access, segmenting networks, reviewing configurations, and strengthening passwords to enhance security. The smaller the exposed surface, the lower the risk of exploitation.
Why should your organization take zero-day attacks seriously?
A zero-day attack is not only a technical issue; it can also result in economic losses, reputational damage, and legal sanctions if it compromises personal or sensitive data.
In this sense, anticipating is the only viable strategy,. not about waiting for the following security patch, but rather adopting an active surveillance model that allows for the detection of anomalous movements and immediate action.
Kartos’ contribution to defending against zero-day attacks
At Enthec, we developed Kartos as a Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) solution designed for companies that want to stay ahead of the curve. Its unique value lies in its ability to:
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- Continuously monitor the digital attack surface.
- Detect potential exposures before cybercriminals can exploit them.
- Generate early warnings that allow security teams to prioritize and act quickly.
- Provide clear reports and actionable information for decision-making.
In this way, Kartos becomes a key and strategic ally in mitigating the impact of a potential zero-day attack, closing gaps before they can be exploited.
A zero-day attack can occur at any time, and by its nature, it is impossible to guarantee a 100% defense. However, the difference between suffering a devastating impact and minimizing the risks lies in prior preparation.
Having cyber surveillance solutions allows organizations to stay ahead of cybercriminals, detect anomalies before they escalate, and minimize their exposure.
Cybersecurity can no longer be viewed as an expense, but rather as a strategic investment in business continuity.
Want to learn how Kartos can help your business reduce the risk of a zero-day attack? Contact Enthec and request a personalized demonstration.