Introduction to Cybersecurity Operations

The practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

Harmful actions aimed at disrupting, damaging, or gaining unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data.

Individuals or groups behind cyberattacks, driven by various motivations like financial gain, espionage, or disruption.

Threat actors backed by a country's government, often involved in espionage or cyberwarfare.

The conflict between making systems readily accessible and securing them from cyber threats.

Measures implemented to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption.

The perception in some organizations that cybersecurity measures hinder productivity or efficiency, often due to cost or inconvenience.

Cybersecurity is crucial because technology is pervasive and vulnerable to attacks, making it vital to protect data, systems, and individuals.

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized team responsible for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity threats in an organization.

SOCs are typically organized in tiers with increasing levels of expertise. Tier 1 focuses on initial triage and alert confirmation, Tier 2 conducts in-depth analysis and remediation, and Tier 3 focuses on threat hunting and developing preventive measures.

A system used to manage and track security alerts and incidents within a SOC.

A platform that gathers logs from various sources into one searchable place, helping security teams understand security incidents and respond effectively.

A SOC analyst responsible for initial triage and alert confirmation. They determine if an incident is a true positive or a false positive.

A proactive security practice where security professionals actively search for threats that might have gone undetected by traditional security controls.

A platform that automates security tasks like incident investigation and response, using workflows called playbooks.

A structured process with distinct phases for handling security incidents, ensuring a timely and effective response.

The first phase of the Incident Response Lifecycle, where the SOC is prepared to handle incidents by having the necessary tools and resources ready.

The second phase of the Incident Response Lifecycle, where attacks are identified and analyzed. Security teams investigate suspicious activity and determine the nature of the incident.

The phase of the incident response lifecycle focusing on isolating the affected systems, removing malicious elements, and restoring normal operations.

The final phase of the incident response lifecycle, involving analysis of the event, identification of vulnerabilities, and implementation of preventative measures.

Employing multiple information sources, such as SIEMs, IDPSs, and antivirus software, to gain a comprehensive understanding of a security incident.

Data points or patterns that suggest an impending or ongoing security incident, helping in early detection and response.