Common intranet security vulnerabilities include:
Weak or Default Credentials – Many devices or services within an intranet use default usernames and passwords (e.g., "admin/admin"), making them easy targets for attackers.
Example: A printer with default login credentials allows unauthorized access to sensitive print jobs or network configurations.
Unpatched Software & Systems – Outdated software, operating systems, or firmware may have known vulnerabilities that attackers exploit.
Example: An unpatched Windows server in the intranet could be compromised via a known SMB vulnerability.
Lack of Network Segmentation – Without proper segmentation, a breach in one part of the intranet (e.g., a guest Wi-Fi) can spread to critical systems.
Example: An attacker gaining access to an unsegmented IoT network could move laterally to financial databases.
Insider Threats – Employees or contractors with malicious intent or negligence (e.g., phishing victims) can leak data or sabotage systems.
Example: A disgruntled employee exfiltrates customer data via an unmonitored file-sharing service.
Unsecured Endpoints – Devices like laptops or mobile phones without proper security controls (e.g., antivirus, encryption) can introduce malware.
Example: A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) laptop infected with ransomware spreads to the intranet when connected.
Misconfigured Services – Open ports, weak firewall rules, or exposed administrative interfaces increase attack surfaces.
Example: An intranet database with an open port (e.g., 3306 for MySQL) accessible without authentication.
Phishing & Social Engineering – Employees may unknowingly click malicious links or share credentials via deceptive emails.
Example: A fake "IT support" email tricks staff into revealing VPN credentials.
Mitigation & Tencent Cloud Solutions:
Regular patching, employee training, and monitoring (e.g., via Tencent Cloud Cloud Monitor) are also critical.