What attack targets a specific group of users by infecting websites they commonly visit?

The watering hole attack targets a specific group of users by compromising websites that are frequently visited by that group. This type of attack involves identifying the websites that a particular community or set of users is likely to access and then infecting those sites with malicious code. When an unsuspecting user from the targeted group visits the compromised website, their device can become infected with malware, allowing attackers to gain access to sensitive information or to further penetrate the organization's network.

In this scenario, the focus is on the specific users and their established online habits, differentiating it from other types of attacks that might target users more generally without the same precision. The effectiveness of a watering hole attack lies in its targeted nature, as the attackers often conduct reconnaissance to ensure the relevant sites are those that the intended victims trust and frequently engage with. This creates a deceptive environment where the users may not be alert to the risks, as the attack leverages their normal online behavior.