What’s the most astonishing cybersecurity hack you’ve encountered? How did the hackers manage to circumvent the security measures in place?
What’s the most astonishing cybersecurity hack you’ve encountered? How did the hackers manage to circumvent the security measures in place?
There are so many wild stories in the cybersecurity world, but one that stands out is the Target data breach from 2013. Hackers managed to steal the credit and debit card information of over 40 million customers by breaking into Target’s systems through a third-party vendor, Fazio Mechanical Services, which managed their HVAC systems.
The attackers gained access by using stolen credentials from the vendor, which were compromised due to weak security practices. Once inside Target’s network, they deployed malware on the company’s point-of-sale (POS) systems, enabling them to capture payment card data.
This incident highlights not just the vulnerabilities of large corporations, but also the risks associated with third-party vendors. Effective cybersecurity requires not only strong defenses but also comprehensive monitoring and risk management across the entire supply chain. What are some other notable hacks you’ve heard of?