In an increasingly networked and digitalized world, the topic of cybercrime is becoming more and more important. Cybercriminals use advanced technologies to carry out devastating attacks on companies, governments and individuals. One method used to detect and defend against such attacks is honeypots. In this paper, we will take a closer look at honeypots and their role in the context of cybercrime.

Honeypots: An Introduction:

Honeypots are specially designed systems or network components designed to lure, deceive and analyze attackers. They are presented as attractive targets to attract the attention of cybercriminals. Since honeypots are not part of the productive infrastructure, they offer the opportunity to study attack behavior, recognize tactics and identify vulnerabilities.

Types of Honeypots:

There are different types of honeypots that can be classified depending on their complexity and purpose:

Low-Interaction Honeypots: These honeypots simulate only limited services and protocols to allow minimal interactions with attackers. They are easy to set up, but also contain less attack information.

High-Interaction Honeypots: These honeypots provide more comprehensive emulation of systems and services. They enable more detailed analysis of attacker activity, but are more difficult to implement and maintain.

Research Honeypots: These honeypots are used to investigate specific attack patterns and techniques. They are tailor-made and enable in-depth analysis of threats.

The Role of Honeypots in Fighting Cybercrime:

Honeypots play an essential role in combating cybercrime.

Early detection of attacks: By attracting attackers, honeypots enable early detection of attacks and attack trends.

Behavior analysis. Analyzing attacker interactions provides valuable insights into their tactics, techniques and procedures.

Distraction from productive systems.

Honeypots distract attackers from actual production environments, increasing security.

Honeypot networks: By connecting honeypots, more comprehensive attack scenarios can be simulated in order to develop better protection mechanisms.