cyberweapons
Code-based attack tools
Cyberweapons are software tools or code designed to damage, disrupt, or infiltrate computer systems, networks, or infrastructure.
Like conventional weapons, they're deployed offensively—targeting power grids, financial systems, military networks, or industrial equipment.
The Stuxnet virus that sabotaged Iranian nuclear centrifuges is a famous example.
Several nations are developing cyberweapons capabilities.
Unlike physical weapons, cyberweapons can spread uncontrollably once released.
Microscopic infectious agent
- wormLimbless soil invertebrate
- ransomwareHostage-taking code
- spywareHidden surveillance program
- rootkitHidden unauthorized access software
botnet · keylogger · backdoor · payload · dropper · logic bomb · RAT · Pegasus
Systematic observation of subjects
- reconnaissanceInformation-gathering before action
- infiltrationCovert entry into organization
- eavesdroppingSecretly listening to others
- interceptionSeizing something in transit
exfiltration · APT · state-sponsored · intelligence gathering · network intrusion · command and control · attribution · signals intelligence
Essential services and facilities
- power gridLinked transmission system
- offensive operationsAttacks to gain ground
- information warfareWeaponized communication against adversaries
- electronic warfareCombat via electromagnetic spectrum
disruption · sabotage · attribution · retaliation · national security · arms race
Fraudulent credential harvesting
- DDoSTraffic flood attack
- brute-forcePower without finesse
- man-in-the-middleCovert communication interception scheme
- credential stuffingAutomated stolen login testing
spoofing · buffer overflow · privilege escalation · code injection · social engineering · watering hole · supply chain attack · lateral movement
Network access control system
- encryptionConverting data into code
- intrusion detectionSpotting unauthorized access attempts
- antivirusMalware detection program
- sandboxingIsolating untrusted code
forensics · honeypot · air gap · penetration testing · red team · blue team · zero trust
virus
Microscopic infectious agent
- wormLimbless soil invertebrate
- ransomwareHostage-taking code
- spywareHidden surveillance program
rootkit · botnet · keylogger · backdoor · payload · dropper · logic bomb · RAT · Pegasus · zero-day exploit
surveillance
Systematic observation of subjects
- reconnaissanceInformation-gathering before action
- infiltrationCovert entry into organization
- eavesdroppingSecretly listening to others
interception · exfiltration · APT · state-sponsored · intelligence gathering · network intrusion · command and control · attribution · signals intelligence
critical infrastructure
Essential services and facilities
- power gridLinked transmission system
- offensive operationsAttacks to gain ground
- information warfareWeaponized communication against adversaries
electronic warfare · disruption · sabotage · attribution · retaliation · national security · arms race
phishing
Fraudulent credential harvesting
- DDoSTraffic flood attack
- brute-forcePower without finesse
- man-in-the-middleCovert communication interception scheme
credential stuffing · spoofing · buffer overflow · privilege escalation · code injection · social engineering · watering hole · supply chain attack · lateral movement · persistence
firewall
Network access control system
- encryptionConverting data into code
- intrusion detectionSpotting unauthorized access attempts
- antivirusMalware detection program
sandboxing · forensics · honeypot · air gap · penetration testing · red team · blue team · zero trust
cyberweaponsfirewalls
Security barriers blocking intrusions
antivirus software · cybersecurity tools · encryption · security patches · security protocols
cyberweaponsproductivity tools
Applications boosting work output