What is the name given to highly trained and funded groups of hackers often associated with nation states?

The term used to describe highly trained and funded groups of hackers that are often associated with nation states is Advanced Persistent Threats. These groups are characterized by their sophisticated techniques and resources, allowing them to conduct prolonged and targeted attacks against specific entities, usually for espionage or disruption purposes. They typically work with a clear objective in mind, often related to national security or economic advantage.

Advanced Persistent Threats operate in stealth, ensuring they maintain access to the target’s network over an extended period, which can sometimes last for months or even years. Their resources usually surpass those of typical cybercriminals, allowing for more complex operations, often involving tailored malware and persistent infiltration strategies.

Understanding the nature of Advanced Persistent Threats is crucial, as they present significant risks to organizations, particularly in sectors like government, defense, finance, and critical infrastructure. This highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures that include threat intelligence, proactive defenses, and incident response planning to mitigate the risks posed by such sophisticated adversaries.