Which of the following is a characteristic of Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)?

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are characterized by their ability to flexibly adapt to the defenses they encounter. This characteristic is critical because APTs are typically orchestrated by well-resourced and skilled adversaries, such as nation-states or organized crime groups, who have the capability to conduct prolonged and sophisticated cyber campaigns.

Flexibility in adapting to defenses allows these attackers to employ various tactics, techniques, and procedures throughout the duration of their attack, enabling them to circumvent security measures and maintain access to their target systems over an extended period. This adaptability can manifest through changing attack vectors, using different types of malware, or employing social engineering techniques that are tailored to overcome specific obstacles or responses from the targeted organization.

In contrast, other characteristics such as having a short duration of attacks, a single method of attack, or a low resource requirement do not align with the nature of APTs. APTs are defined by their persistence, the use of multiple attack methods, and their reliance on considerable resources to plan, execute, and maintain operations. Therefore, the ability to adapt is a defining trait that sets APTs apart from other types of cyber threats.