honeytoken

A honeytoken is a digital artifact intentionally created to attract and detect unauthorized access or malicious activity. These tokens are typically pieces of data that appear legitimate but are monitored for any interaction. Examples of honeytokens include fake credentials like usernames and passwords, decoy database entries, or even specially crafted files that trigger an alert if accessed.

The primary purpose of a honeytoken is to act as an early warning system. When a honeytoken is accessed or used, it signals to security personnel that a system may have been compromised or that an attacker is actively probing the network. This allows for quicker detection and response to potential security incidents, minimizing damage.

Honeytokens are often deployed in environments where sensitive data resides or where critical systems are located. They are designed to be inconspicuous, blending in with real data to avoid immediate detection by attackers. The value of a honeytoken lies not in its inherent worth, but in the information it provides about attacker behavior and intentions. By observing how and when a honeytoken is targeted, security teams can gain insights into the methods and objectives of malicious actors, aiding in the refinement of overall security defenses.