An advanced persistent threat (APT) is a covert （ ） attack on a computer network where the attacker gains and maintains （ ） access to the targeted network and remains undetected for a significant period. An APT is a sophisticated, long-term and （ ） attack, usually orchestrated by nation-state groups, or well-organized criminal enterprises. During the time between infection and remediation the hacker will often monitor, intercept, and relay information and sensitive data. The intention of an APT is usually to （ ） or steal data rather than cause a network outage, denial of service or infect systems with malware. APTs often use social engineering tactics or exploit security （ ） in networks, applications or files to plant malware on target systems. A successful advanced persistent threat can be extremely effective and beneficial to the attacker.
