Web-Specific Threat Actors and Motivations

Web applications attract diverse threat actors due to their accessibility and potential value. Script kiddies use automated tools to scan for common vulnerabilities across millions of websites. These opportunistic attackers might seem unsophisticated, but their tools exploit real vulnerabilities that cause actual breaches. Any web application faces constant probing from these automated attacks.

Organized cybercrime groups target web applications for financial gain through various schemes. E-commerce sites face credit card theft and account takeover attempts. Applications storing personal information become targets for identity theft operations. Ransomware groups increasingly target web applications as entry points to corporate networks. These criminals bring patience and resources to their attacks, often conducting reconnaissance before striking.

Competitors and corporate spies target web applications for business intelligence. They might seek customer lists, pricing information, or strategic plans. These actors often use stealthier approaches, slowly extracting information to avoid detection. Insider threats become particularly relevant here, as employees might have legitimate access that masks malicious activities.

State-sponsored actors target web applications supporting critical infrastructure, government services, or organizations of national interest. These advanced persistent threats (APTs) employ sophisticated techniques including zero-day exploits and complex social engineering. While most organizations won't face nation-state attacks, those that might must model these advanced threats.