"Threat Research" is a systematic research process in cybersecurity that involves analyzing existing and potential threats to understand how they operate and how they can be mitigated. This process employs threat intelligence to trace malicious activities and formulate defense strategies.
Reputation Data
This category operates based on threat intelligence. It includes blacklists of known threat sources such as malicious software signatures, IP addresses, DNS domains, etc. This data is used to track and prevent past attacks and malicious activities.
Reputation Data Example: Malicious software signatures, like those of WannaCry, carry the imprints of past attacks. These signatures are identified in antivirus software and firewalls, preventing attacks.
Indicator of Attack (IoA)
IoA presents evidence that an attack is ongoing. This term allows for event analysis to identify an attack and develop a rapid response.
Indicator of Attack (IoA) Example: Unusual traffic patterns, unexpected file transfers, or unauthorized access in a specific attack scenario can be regarded as IoA.
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP)
This concept encompasses tactics, techniques, and procedures that attackers may employ. Understanding TTPs is crucial for comprehending attacks and improving defense strategies.
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) Example: The TTP of a phishing attack includes sending a fake email, using social engineering tactics to deceive users, and infiltrating systems after clicking on a malicious link.
Port Hopping
A tactic used by APTs, Port Hopping involves using different connection points for Command and Control (C2) communication. This helps attackers evade detection by swiftly switching between ports.
Port Hopping Example: Attackers decrease the likelihood of detection by rapidly switching between random ports instead of using standard ports typically used in a C2 application.
Fast Flux DNS
This technique rapidly changes the IP associated with a malicious domain to avoid detection. Attackers use quick IP changes to make tracking more challenging.
Fast Flux DNS Example: During a phishing attack, perpetrators can utilize Fast Flux DNS to redirect traffic to a malicious website. This technique swiftly alters the IP address associated with the malicious domain, making it challenging for security experts or monitoring systems to track and detect the attackers. As a result, with rapid IP address changes, assailants can make it difficult to trace and block their activities.
DGA – Domain Generation Algorithm
Malicious software uses DGA to dynamically generate domain names for Command & Control (C&C) networks. This method helps attackers avoid blacklists and complicates detection by generating unpredictable domain names.
DGA – Domain Generation Algorithm Example: A botnet can confuse detection by communicating with C&C servers using dynamically generated, unique domain names created daily.
Each of these elements contains crucial details for a deep understanding of threats in cybersecurity and the development of defense strategies. Leveraging such details in analyses can be instrumental in preventing current attacks and minimizing future risks.
cybersecurity threat research, reputation data, indicator of attack, tactics techniques and procedures, port hopping, fast flux DNS, DGA domain generation algorithm, cyber threat intelligence.
Comments