During the SolarWinds cyber attack, malicious code was embedded into the Orion software updates, compromising thousands of organizations, including critical government agencies. But, the impact pales in comparison to what could have unfolded during the problematic CrowdStrike update. 

The cybersecurity community was relieved to learn that the incident wasn’t due to an insider exploiting a vulnerability in CrowdStrike’s Falcon platform. However, it has highlighted the complex tech challenges federal agencies face. Centralized platforms like CrowdStrike and SolarWinds, though vital, can become single points of failure, risking entire networks. 

Even as AI platforms automate many aspects of cybersecurity and increase security posture, technology alone cannot keep us safe. Humans in the loop are vital in defending against the 15 most common cyber threats facing federal agencies. During our analysis, we’ll cover everything from sophisticated nation-state intrusions to supply chain attacks like SolarWinds.  

We’ll offer actionable insights on implementing zero-trust architecture and how leveraging AI-driven detection systems can help you comply with NIST guidelines and federal requirements. Let’s start by building a strong foundation for understanding today’s most common cyberattacks for federal agencies. 

What Is A Cyber Attack?

A cyber attack is a hostile attempt to breach, disrupt, or damage a computer system, network, or digital infrastructure. These intrusions can compromise data integrity, exfiltrate sensitive information, or cripple systems entirely. The results range from significant financial losses, reputational harm and threats to national infrastructure and security.

The 15 Most Common Cyber Attacks for Federal Agencies  

Cybersecurity is constantly evolving to cope with new threats. However, certain types of cyber security attacks remain persistently common due to their simplicity and effectiveness. Here are the 15 different types of cyber attacks every government agency should be prepared for. 

1. Spear Phishing

For nearly a decade, spear phishing has effectively breached government and military networks, bypassing even advanced cybersecurity defenses. Incidents like Titan Rain (2003-2006 and Shady Rat (2010), linked to suspected Chinese hackers, used spear phishing to infiltrate U.S. institutions and steal sensitive data.  

Spear phishing is an advanced form of phishing in which attackers use social engineering and open-source intelligence (OSINT) to gather personal data and behavioral patterns. This information is then used to craft highly convincing emails that trick victims into opening malicious links. This allows hackers remote access to critical systems while bypassing standard security measures. 

The objectives of phishing attacks on federal agencies are twofold: 

1. Exfiltration of classified or sensitive information 
2. Deployment of advanced malware, potentially including Remote Access Trojans (RATs) or other persistent threats 

No matter how advanced our defenses are, the human element remains one of our most significant vulnerabilities. One that bad actors will continually exploit.

2. Ransomware

Ransomware infiltrates your system, encrypts your files, and demands a ransom to restore access. Suddenly, it’s a digital hostage situation. Today, hostile actors raise the stakes by threatening to release sensitive data if their demands aren’t met.  

In June 2022, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) experienced this nightmare when hackers launched a ransomware attack. After locking down the school’s data, the bad actors disrupted administrative operations by threatening to sensitive student and employee information unless their ransom demands were met.  

Fortunately, the situation was resolved through coordinated efforts between the district, cybersecurity experts, and law enforcement, with no ransom being paid. LAUSD restored its systems using backups and mitigation strategies while enhancing its cybersecurity protocols to prevent future incidents. 

3. Malware

Malware remains a constant, evolving threat and dangerous threat. That’s because malware isn’t a single entity but a diverse ecosystem of malicious software designed to infiltrate, damage, or exfiltrate data from government systems. 

The most common types of malware cyber attacks include: 

1. Polymorphic Malware: Rapidly mutates code signatures, evading signature-based detection. 
2. Fileless Malware: Operates in memory, leaving minimal disk evidence. An example is the August 2023 TSA attack via spear-phishing, which compromised transportation security communications. 
3. Rootkits: Modify operating systems to conceal presence, enabling long-term persistence. 
4. Firmware Malware: Targets hardware component code, potentially compromising device fleets. 
5. AI-Powered Malware: Utilizes machine learning for real-time behavior adaptation. 

In August 2023, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported a malware infection within their internal network. The malware, delivered through a spear-phishing email, allowed attackers to monitor sensitive communications and access classified data related to transportation security measures. This incident spotlights the evolving sophistication of malware attacks targeting federal agencies. 

4. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)

DDoS attacks work by flooding a system or network with so much traffic that it becomes unusable for regular users. To achieve this, attackers often use a network of hijacked devices, a botnet, to create a massive surge in traffic. The result? Significant disruptions to online services and potentially substantial financial losses for businesses.  

In April 2023, a DDoS attack disrupted U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations. The attack targeted the FAA’s public-facing websites, causing significant service interruptions and delaying the processing of flight information and notices to air missions (NOTAMs). This attack emphasizes DDoS attacks’ impact on critical infrastructure and public safety. 

5. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM)

During a MitM attack, the attacker intercepts communications between two parties, potentially altering or recording the exchanged information. This can occur on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks or through compromised routers. MitM attacks can lead to data theft, identity fraud, or unauthorized transactions.  

In February 2023, a MitM attack targeted the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services during a large-scale virtual conference on healthcare data security. Attackers intercepted the communication between participants, potentially accessing sensitive discussions related to patient data privacy. This attack exposed vulnerabilities in the agency’s conference software and prompted a review of their communication security protocols. 

6. SQL Injection

SQL injection attacks target vulnerabilities in web applications that interact with databases. By inserting malicious SQL code into input fields, attackers can manipulate or extract sensitive data from the backend database, resulting in data breaches, unauthorized access, or complete system compromise. 

In May 2022, an SQL injection attack targeted the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) website. The attacker exploited a vulnerability in the website’s search function to access voter data, including personal information such as addresses and voting history. This breach raises questions about the security of election-related systems and the potential for data manipulation. 

7. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

Cross-site scripting (XSS) is an attack in which an attacker injects malicious executable scripts into the code of a trusted application or website, which then execute in visitors’ browsers. This can lead to session hijacking, website defacement, or theft of sensitive data.   

In November 2022, a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability was found in a web application used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for reporting suspicious activities. The vulnerability could have allowed attackers to inject malicious scripts into the application, potentially compromising the personal information of federal employees and citizens submitting reports. The issue was promptly addressed, but it underlines the importance of secure coding practices in government web applications.

8. Credential Stuffing 

These types of cyber security attacks are performed when attackers use automated tools to try large numbers of stolen username-password pairs across various websites. Since many users reuse passwords across different accounts, these attacks are often successful.  

In 2022, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) experienced a large-scale credential stuffing attack. Hackers used stolen usernames and passwords from previous data breaches to access multiple DOI employee accounts. The attackers exploited weak passwords and password reuse, compromising sensitive data such as DOI staff’s internal communications and personal information. This incident highlights the risks associated with inadequate password policies and the importance of multi-factor authentication. 

9. Insider Threats

Insider threats come from within an organization, often involving employees, contractors, or partners who misuse their authorized access to systems and data for malicious purposes.  

In 2022, a former employee of the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) was charged with stealing classified information and attempting to sell it to a foreign government. The insider, who had legitimate access to sensitive data, exploited this privilege to collect and exfiltrate classified documents over months. This breach stresses the need for rigorous insider threat monitoring and the enforcement of strict data access controls. 

10. Supply Chain Attacks

Supply chain attacks target the less secure elements in a supply chain to infiltrate the primary target. This often involves compromising third-party vendors or software updates to gain unauthorized access.  

In 2023, a supply chain attack targeted a major software vendor whose products were used by several federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Attackers compromised the vendor’s software update mechanism, injecting malware into a routine update downloaded and installed by multiple government systems. This incident, reminiscent of the 2020 SolarWinds breach, highlights the ongoing vulnerabilities in software supply chains and the critical need for supply chain security measures. 

11. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

APTs are digital sleeper agents. They sneak into your network, blend in with the everyday traffic, and then… they wait—for years, sometimes—slowly gathering intel, eavesdropping on your communications, quietly stealing data, and compromising your defenses from the inside out. When activated, the damage can be catastrophic.  

In 2023, a group called “Volt Typhoon,” believed to be backed by a foreign government, was found infiltrating vital parts of U.S. infrastructure, such as the energy and communications sectors. It’s a timely reminder of just how vulnerable critical systems are to these persistent threats. 

12. Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits target unknown vulnerabilities in software or hardware before the vendor releases a patch. These are particularly dangerous because no defenses or patches are initially available.  

In early 2024, a zero-day exploit compromised several federal agencies’ widely deployed VPN software. The vulnerability allowed attackers to bypass authentication and access the affected networks administratively. The zero-day exploit was actively used to install backdoors on targeted systems before a patch was released, exposing classified and sensitive information. This incident reinforces the need for rapid response and vulnerability management. 

13. Social Engineering

Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. Techniques include impersonation, pretexting, baiting, or tailgating to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information.  

In 2022, a social engineering campaign targeted the CDC (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Attackers posed as CDC officials and called employees, requesting login credentials under the pretense of conducting a security audit. The attackers accessed several internal systems, allowing them to distribute false information through official channels. The incident demonstrates how insidious social engineering can bypass even technical safeguards. 

14. Fileless Malware

Fileless malware operates in memory, avoiding detection by traditional antivirus software that scans files on disk. It often leverages legitimate system tools like PowerShell or WMI to execute malicious commands.  

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was targeted by a fileless malware attack that used PowerShell scripts to gain persistence on their network. The malware operated entirely in memory, avoiding detection by traditional antivirus tools. The attackers leveraged legitimate Windows tools and protocols to execute commands and exfiltrate sensitive military data, underlining the difficulty of detecting and mitigating fileless malware threats. 

15. Brute Force Attack

Brute force attacks use trial-and-error methods to guess login credentials and encryption keys or find hidden web pages. Automated software generates many consecutive guesses to obtain the desired information.  

In 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported brute force attacks against its public-facing web applications. The attackers attempted to systematically guess user credentials to gain unauthorized access to restricted data on environmental assessments. Fortunately, the attack was detected and mitigated, but the importance of rate-limiting and robust login security mechanisms was emphasized to defend against brute-force attacks.

Federal Agencies: Preventing the Most Common Cyber Attacks 

Protecting federal agencies against today’s most common types of cyber security attacks requires a comprehensive, multi-layered approach that combines advanced technology, robust policies, and continuous employee education to keep humans in the loop.  

Here are essential steps federal agencies should take: 

1. Implement a Zero Trust Architecture 

Federal agencies should adopt a Zero-Trust security model, as mandated by Executive Order 14028. This approach assumes no implicit trust in any user, device, or network and requires continuous verification for every access request. Zero Trust is especially critical in federal environments where sensitive data and classified information are frequently accessed.  

Micro-segmentation further limits lateral movement within networks, reducing the risk of widespread breaches in case of compromise. Additionally, multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all users, including privileged accounts, adds an essential layer of security. Agencies must also employ continuous monitoring and real-time security analytics to detect emerging threats, ensuring a proactive stance in cybersecurity. 

2. Rigorous Patch Management and Software Updates 

Bad actors often exploit unpatched systems, using outdated software or missed security updates to gain access to federal networks. Given the sensitive nature of federal agencies’ data and operations, keeping systems updated is essential. However, as incidents like SolarWinds and CrowdStrike have shown, relying solely on automated processes creates critical vulnerabilities. 

Having humans in the loop is non-negotiable in patch management. This ensures that vulnerabilities are effectively prioritized and addressed rather than solely relying on automation. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests help federal agencies stay ahead of threats. In addition, centralizing patch management keeps all agency devices and systems up to date while focusing on patching the most critical vulnerabilities minimizes operational risks.

3. Enhance Identity and Access Management (IAM) 

Robust IAM practices are indispensable for protecting sensitive government data and systems, especially from insider threats. Here are the key protocols to improve IAM security.  

Human oversight in Identity and Access Management (IAM) is essential for catching potential misuse of credentials and spotting insider threats early. By regularly auditing and reviewing who has access to sensitive systems, you can ensure that only the right people are allowed in, keeping your organization safe from unnecessary risks. 

Setting up strong multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts, especially those with higher privileges, is a key step in boosting security. Personal Identity Verification (PIV) cards or similar credentials can make logging in easier and more secure. By applying the principle of least privilege, you ensure that users only have access to the information and systems they actually need for their jobs, minimizing unnecessary risk. 

4. Comprehensive Employee Training and Awareness 

Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report reveals a startling statistic: 74% of security breaches involve human error. From phishing scams to inadvertent man-in-the-middle attacks, the human factor remains a critical vulnerability. 

Robust systems and security protocols need to be improved. Your team is simultaneously your greatest asset and potential weakness. The key to mitigating this risk? Ongoing, comprehensive cybersecurity education. Regular training and simulations keep security protocols at the forefront of their minds, improve their ability to recognize and respond to threats, and transform each team member into a “human firewall.”  

Partner with cybersecurity experts to: 

• Perform regular simulations and security awareness training 
• Provide role-specific training for employees handling sensitive data or critical systems 
• Establish clear incident reporting procedures and foster a security-aware culture 

Remember, in cybersecurity, an informed team is your best defense. 

5. Secure Supply Chain Management

Given the prevalence of supply chain attacks such as the SolarWinds incident, federal agencies must constantly monitor their entire software supply chain for potential vulnerabilities. 

• Implement rigorous vendor risk assessment processes 
• Require vendors to meet specific security standards and certifications (e.g., FedRAMP, NIST 800-171) 
• Conduct regular audits of third-party systems and practices that interact with agency data or networks

6. Develop and Test Incident Response Plans  

Federal agencies must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively to cyber incidents. 

• Create comprehensive incident response plans that align with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 
• Regularly conduct tabletop exercises and full-scale simulations to test and refine response capabilities. 
• Establish communication channels with relevant stakeholders, including other agencies and law enforcement. 

7. Comply with Federal Cybersecurity Standards and Regulations 

Adherence to federal cybersecurity standards is crucial for maintaining a robust security posture.  

• Ensure compliance with relevant standards such as FISMA, NIST SP 800-53, and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 
• Regularly assess and document compliance efforts 
• Stay informed about evolving federal cybersecurity requirements and adjust strategies accordingly.

8. For Bigger Organizations, Leverage Cybersecurity Software 

For large organizations, investing in advanced cybersecurity software is the only way to stay ahead of evolving threats. These solutions provide a multi-layered defense strategy by detecting, preventing, and responding to threats in real-time. Here’s why they are essential: 

• Real-time Threat Detection: AI-driven systems process vast amounts of data to detect potential threats early, preventing damage before it occurs 
• Comprehensive Network Monitoring: Ongoing surveillance across federal networks provides full visibility, immediately identifying any unusual activity 
• Rapid Incident Response: Automated response tools swiftly address breaches, reducing damage and limiting disruptions. 
• AI and Machine Learning Integration: These technologies help identify complex attack patterns and adapt to new threats faster than manual methods 
• SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): Analyzes and collects security data from multiple sources to offer a comprehensive overview of your entire security landscape 
• Next-generation Firewalls: These tools inspect traffic at the application layer and integrate with threat intelligence feeds for more advanced protection 

IPKeys: Cybersecurity and Analytics Partner for Federal Agencies

As a trusted partner to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies, IPKeys specializes in innovative, defense-grade cybersecurity solutions tailored to the evolving needs of critical infrastructure. 

Why choose IPKeys to prepare and defend against today’s most common cyber attacks? 

• Advanced Analytics: IPKeys CLaaS® collects and organizes vast cybersecurity data, transforming it into clear, actionable insights. 
• Custom Alert Thresholds: Fully configurable to meet specific needs, IPKeys CLaaS® can effectively identify and quantify security risks. 
• More Than Just Reporting: Automate action plans such as Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) and calculate the Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) to mitigate vulnerabilities swiftly based upon operational risk. 

Federal agencies need more than off-the-shelf software—they require partners who understand their mission-critical needs and the complexities of securing sensitive data. To continue this conversation, visit IPKeys Cybersecurity & Analytics or talk to a team member.