Threat Hunting and Compromise Assessment
I was chatting lately with my colleague Victor Sergeev about the topics of #threathunting and #compromiseassessment, and I am keen to share some of the insights:
Organizations are increasingly recognizing the challenges associated with establishing a robust Security Operations Center (#SOC). This recognition has led to a trend where 1st/2nd Tier analysts are often outsourced to external SOCs or Managed Detection and Response providers (#MDR). While this strategy addresses certain operational challenges, it barely scratches the surface of a more complex and demanding initiative: developing an effective Threat Hunting program.
Threat Hunting is an advanced, proactive cybersecurity strategy aimed at identifying and mitigating threats that evade existing security measures. Unlike traditional security approaches, Threat Hunting requires a deep understanding of the adversary's tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), making it a significantly more challenging endeavor. However, the complexity of building a Threat Hunting program is matched by its immense value. A well-executed Threat Hunting program not only enhances an organization's security posture but also provides deep insights into potential vulnerabilities and improves overall resilience against cyber threats.
One of the main hurdles in establishing a Threat Hunting program is the requirement for specialized skills and knowledge. Threat Hunters must be adept at analyzing vast amounts of data, identifying anomalies, and discerning potential threats from benign activities. This level of expertise is not developed overnight and requires continuous learning and adaptation to the ever-changing threat landscape.
Moreover, the integration of Threat Hunting into existing security operations poses its own set of challenges. It necessitates a shift in mindset from reactive to proactive defense strategies, as well as adjustments in organizational structure and processes to support this proactive approach. The complexity of these changes often deters organizations from pursuing a dedicated Threat Hunting initiative.
Despite these challenges, the benefits of Threat Hunting cannot be overstated. To bridge the gap and start reaping the rewards of Threat Hunting, organizations can begin with a "one-shot" Compromise Assessment. This approach involves engaging external experts to conduct thorough analytics and assessments, with the dual objective of identifying current compromises and imparting valuable knowledge to in-house SOC teams. Through this collaborative process, organizations can gain actionable insights and practical experience in Threat Hunting, laying the groundwork for a more comprehensive program.
In conclusion, while the path to building a successful Threat Hunting program is fraught with challenges, the strategic value it offers in terms of insights, security enhancement, and organizational learning is unparalleled. Starting with targeted initiatives like Compromise Assessments can provide organizations with a solid foundation, enabling them to develop the capabilities and confidence required to embark on the journey toward advanced Threat Hunting. As we navigate this complex terrain, it is imperative for leaders to invest in the skills, tools, and partnerships necessary to harness the full potential of Threat Hunting in safeguarding their digital assets.
Links:
• What is a compromise assessment service? https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/understanding-compromise-assessment/49671/
• Kaspersky Compromise Assessment: https://www.kaspersky.com/enterprise-security/compromise-assessment