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Glossary Attacks & Techniques Updated Jun 12, 2026

Cyber Reconnaissance

The information-gathering phase where attackers map a target's systems, people, and weaknesses before striking.

Also known as recon attack reconnaissance target profiling

Cyber reconnaissance is the first phase of most attacks, where adversaries gather information about a target's infrastructure, employees, technologies, and exposures. Better reconnaissance means a faster, stealthier intrusion later.

Infostealer logs supercharge reconnaissance. A single log reveals internal URLs, installed software, VPN endpoints, and valid credentials, handing attackers a detailed map of the environment before they ever touch the network.

See how attackers exploit this data in our top 5 threat actors report and corporate compromise in the silent heist.

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