Summary
This chapter comprehensively explored the C2 phase, a critical component of the cyber kill chain. We examined how attackers establish and maintain covert communication channels with compromised systems, orchestrating their malicious activities from afar. The chapter covered the fundamentals of C2, detailing its purpose and structure in cyberattacks. We delved into various evasion techniques employed by threat actors, including encryption, obfuscation, stealth tactics, and the strategic use of proxy servers to mask C2 traffic. The discussion on defensive strategies highlighted proactive and reactive measures, emphasizing the importance of robust security policies, intrusion detection systems, and behavioral analysis. By dissecting C2 infrastructure and communication protocols, we provided a granular view of how attackers relay commands and exfiltrate data. Real-world case studies illustrated successful C2 operations, offering valuable lessons for cybersecurity professionals...
