What is a honeypot used for in computer security?

A honeypot in computer security is a decoy system or resource that is intentionally configured to appear vulnerable and enticing to potential attackers. Its primary purpose is to bait and analyze intruders. By luring in malicious actors, security professionals can observe their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) in a controlled environment. This information is invaluable for improving overall security measures as it provides direct insight into how attackers operate and exploit vulnerabilities.

Using a honeypot allows cybersecurity teams to gather intelligence about emerging threats and attack patterns without putting critical systems at risk. This proactive approach helps organizations strengthen their defenses, respond to threats more effectively, and develop better incident response strategies based on the behaviors exhibited by intruders.

Understanding the motivations and methods of attackers through the use of honeypots greatly enhances an organization's ability to protect real assets and data, making it a key component of a comprehensive security strategy.