Adversary Simulation

A cybersecurity testing method where ethical hackers mimic real-world attacks to assess security defenses.

Understanding Adversary Simulation

Adversary simulation, also known as red teaming or threat emulation, provides organizations with realistic assessments of their security defenses by replicating actual attack scenarios. This approach goes beyond traditional penetration testing by incorporating sophisticated attack chains and adversary behaviors.

Types of Simulations

1. Red Team Exercises

Full-scope security assessments
Stealth-based operations
Multiple attack vectors
Extended engagement periods

2. Purple Team Exercises

Collaborative defense validation
Real-time feedback loops
Defense mechanism testing
Knowledge transfer focus

Common Techniques

1. Initial Access

Social engineering campaigns
Phishing simulations
Physical security testing
Web application attacks

2. Lateral Movement

Credential harvesting
Network enumeration
Privilege escalation
Domain compromise

3. Command and Control

Covert communication channels
Custom C2 frameworks
Data exfiltration methods
Persistence mechanisms