What Is Data Exfiltration?

Data exfiltration is the unauthorized transfer of information from an organization’s systems to a location controlled by an attacker or another unapproved party. Certification exams may describe unusual outbound traffic, large archive files, unauthorized cloud uploads, removable-media activity, or sensitive documents sent through personal email. Exfiltration may occur in one large transfer or through small, repeated movements intended to avoid detection. Controls such as data loss prevention, access restrictions, encryption, egress filtering, cloud monitoring, and removable-media policies can reduce the risk. Investigators should identify what information left, which account or device was involved, the destination, the transfer method, and whether the attacker compressed, encrypted, or disguised the data before removal. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your educational path. Also, if you want to stay up to date with the latest news, visit DailyCyber.News for a newsletter you can use, and a daily podcast you can commute with. And dont forget Cyberauthor.me for the companion study guide and flash cards!