The term “zero-day” refers to a newly discovered software vulnerability and the fact that developers have zero days to fix the problem because it has been — and has the potential to be — exploited by hackers. Sometimes written as 0-day, zero-day definitions run the gamut: A zero-day vulnerability, also known as a zero-day threat, is a flaw in security software that’s unknown to someone interested in mitigating the flaw, like a developer. A zero-day exploit is when hackers take advantage of a zero-day vulnerability for malicious reasons, oftentimes by way of malware to commit a cyberattack.

1. Zero-day definitions:

Zero-day attacks begin with zero-day vulnerabilities, meaning flaws or holes in security software. These can result from improper computer or security configurations or programming errors by developers themselves. The whole notion of a zero-day attack is that cyber attackers exploit these vulnerabilities without developers knowing. Cyberattackers might write — or purchase from the dark web — exploit codes to spot these vulnerabilities. When they do, it’s akin to a welcome mat for a zero-day attack.

3. How do zero-day attacks work?

zero-day malware or more broadly as a zero-day exploit. And they might deliver this by way of social engineering tactics or phishing. Once the zero-day exploit is downloaded on devices, the zero-day attack is executed. The havoc that ensues can include: Data is stolen Hackers taking remote control of devices Other malware installed Files corrupted Contact list accessed and sending spam messages Spyware installed to steal sensitive information Since zero-day attacks are inherently stealthy, it can take months or even years for these zero-day exploits to be realized.

Zero-day Malware 

While software developers are constantly looking to patch security vulnerabilities we see this in the form of software updates cyberattackers are constantly seeking to exploit them. And there are many types of cyberattackers, each with its own motivations: Cybercriminals or hackers are often financially motivated Hacktivists are motivated by drawing attention to a cause social or political Corporate espionage artists are motivated by spying on companies Cyberwarfare attackers can be countries or independent malicious actors who want to compromise a cybersecurity infrastructure as an act of war

4. Who conducts zero-day attacks?

A bug in Apple’s iOS software allowed hackers to compromise devices from remote locations.

Apple, 2020:

A self-replicating computer worm disrupted Iranian nuclear plants, taking control of computers and altering the speed of centrifuges in the plants, ultimately shutting them down. Stuxnet isn’t only one of the earliest zero-day exploits used, but it’s also one of the most famous. The zero-day attack was even made into a documentary, appropriately titled “Zero Days.”

Stuxnet, 2010:

Security software vulnerabilities can come in many forms, including unencrypted data, broken algorithms, bugs, or weak passwords. What makes a vulnerability a zero-day is when someone interested in mitigating the flaw is unaware of it, meaning an official patch or update to fix the flaw doesn’t exist. Once the vulnerability is discovered, it is no longer considered a zero-day.

2. What makes a vulnerability a zero-day?

Oftentimes, zero-day vulnerabilities are detected when it’s too late — when they’re exploited, that is. There are some more technical ways to identify zero-day vulnerabilities, including scanning internet traffic, examining codes of incoming files, and leveraging malware detection methods. For everyday computer users, antivirus software can take out some of this guesswork for you. What’s more, avoiding zero-day exploits and vulnerabilities from the start can go a long way.

6. How to identify zero-day vulnerabilities:

Even as we can’t always detect these vulnerabilities, we can protect our devices and data in the event an exploit does occur. Consider these proactive and reactive security measures. Keep software up to date to ensure security patches are in place and to reduce the risk of malware infection. Limit your applications because the less you have downloaded, the less data you’re putting at risk. Use a firewall to monitor and block suspicious activity, such as zero-day exploits. Educate yourself on zero-day exploits and seek out solutions when zero-day vulnerabilities are discovered.

7. How to avoid zero-day exploits and vulnerabilities:

inally, don’t underestimate the threat of zero-day exploits. Cybercriminals will seek to exploit security holes and gain access to your devices and your personal information. They can use your information for a range of cybercrimes including identity theft, bank fraud, and ransomware. Just consider these recent and headline-making examples of zero-day exploits.

8. Examples of zero-day exploits:

Google Chrome fell victim to several zero-day threats, attributed to a bug in JavaScript.

Google Chrome, 2021:

Individual computer users saw their bank accounts compromised after opening a Microsoft Word document containing zero-day malware.

Microsoft Word, 2017:

Victims, including individuals businesses, or organizations government agencies, And if you’re an everyday computer user, a zero-day vulnerability can pose serious security risks because exploited malware can infect operating systems, web browsers, applications, open-source components, hardware, even IoT devices through otherwise harmless web browsing activities. This can include viewing a website, opening a compromised message, or playing infected media.

5. Who are the victims of zero-day exploits?

Hackers exploited a vulnerability in the video conferencing platform that allowed them to take remote control over PCs.

Zoom, 2020:

Government agencies across Eastern Europe saw their Microsoft Windows software exploited, resulting in suspicious apps being installed, data changed, and programs compromised.

Microsoft Windows, 2019:

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Microsoft Word, 2017:

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Microsoft (1975)