1. Network Threat Intelligence & how it differs from Cybersecurity 2. Threat Intelligence Lifecycle 3. The Seven Phases of Cyberattack

[Audio] 1. Network Threat Intelligence & how it differs from Cybersecurity 2. Threat Intelligence Lifecycle 3. The Seven Phases of Cyberattack.

[Audio] What is Network Intelligence? Also known as Threat Intelligence, is an ongoing process that involves the collection, processing, analysis, and distribution of real-time information about active threats targeting applications and systems. It provides a comprehensive database, offering security professionals a centralized source of data about vulnerabilities and current threats exploited by malevolent entities. Network threat intelligence is kind of a special radar that constantly scans the area around your house. This radar can detect if there are any suspicious movements nearby or if someone is trying to break in. It gathers information about how the 'burglars' operate, what tools they use, and where they usually target. With this information, you can stay one step ahead, knowing what to watch out for and how to improve your security to keep them out..

[Audio] Network Intelligence Sample Tools Wireshark SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) Cisco Stealthwatch PRTG Network Monitor Splunk NetInsight Wireshark: is an open-source packet analyzer that allows network professionals to capture and analyze network traffic. It provides in-depth insights into network protocols, traffic patterns, and can assist in troubleshooting network issues. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM): SolarWinds NPM is a comprehensive network monitoring tool that provides real-time visibility into network performance, availability, and health. It allows for advanced performance analysis, fault detection, and proactive management to ensure optimal network operations. Cisco Stealthwatch: is a network visibility and security analytics tool that helps in identifying and mitigating security threats within the network. It monitors network behavior, detects anomalies, and provides insights to enhance network security. PRTG Network Monitor: is an all-in-one network monitoring tool that provides comprehensive monitoring of network devices, applications, bandwidth, and more. It offers real-time monitoring, alerts, and historical data analysis for efficient network management. Splunk: is a powerful platform for collecting, indexing, and analyzing machine-generated data, including network data. It allows for real-time monitoring, correlation, and visualization of network events, enabling better insights into network performance and security. NetInsight: is a robust Network Intelligence tool designed to provide deep insights into network traffic, security, and performance for optimal network management and decision-making..

[Audio] What is Cybersecurity? Focuses more narrowly on safeguarding critical IT infrastructure. This encompasses both digital and physical defense mechanisms, making it a crucial subset of Security Intelligence. Cybersecurity is like having strong locks, alarms, and security cameras to protect your house from burglars. It's about keeping your computer, devices, and information - safe from bad people on the internet. Cybersecurity uses various tools and strategies to stop the bad guys (hackers) from breaking into your digital 'house' and stealing or damaging your stuff..

[Audio] Cybersecurity Sample Tools FireEye Threat Intelligence Sophos Intercept X Splunk Enterprise Security Nessus Cisco Umbrella Fortinet FortiGate FireEye Threat Intelligence: is a cybersecurity tool that provides advanced threat intelligence, detection, and incident response capabilities. It helps organizations identify and respond to cyber threats effectively, leveraging comprehensive threat intelligence and analysis. Sophos Intercept X: Sophos Intercept X is an advanced endpoint protection tool that uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to detect and prevent malware, ransomware, and other cybersecurity threats. It offers enhanced security features to safeguard endpoints and critical data. Splunk Enterprise Security: is a comprehensive security information and event management (SIEM) tool that aggregates and analyzes security data from various sources. It provides real-time monitoring, threat detection, and incident response capabilities to improve cybersecurity posture. Nessus: is a widely used vulnerability assessment tool that scans and identifies vulnerabilities in networks, systems, and applications. It helps organizations proactively identify weaknesses that could be exploited by cyber threats. Cisco Umbrella: is a cloud-delivered cybersecurity solution that offers protection against phishing, malware, and other online threats. It provides secure web gateways and DNS-layer security to help organizations defend against cyber threats at the DNS layer. Fortinet FortiGate: is an integrated security appliance that combines various security functions, including firewall, antivirus, intrusion prevention, VPN, and more. It offers comprehensive network security to protect against a wide range of cyber threats..

[Audio] Network Intelligence vs. Cybersecurity Cybersecurity is like the security measures you take to protect your digital belongings, while network threat intelligence is the information and insights that help you understand how the 'bad guys' operate and how to make your digital security even stronger. Network Intelligence: Imagine your home is like a big, bustling city with many roads and highways. Network Intelligence is like having a smart traffic system that keeps an eye on all the traffic - how many cars are moving, where they're going, and if there are any traffic jams. It helps in managing and optimizing the flow of traffic efficiently. Cybersecurity: Now, imagine your home has valuable items, and you want to protect them from thieves. Cybersecurity is like having a secure alarm system, strong locks, and vigilant security guards to keep your valuables safe. It's all about protecting your digital information (like passwords, files, and personal data) from sneaky virtual thieves trying to break in and steal. In simpler terms, Network Intelligence focuses on understanding and managing the flow of information and data within a network (like traffic flow in a city), while Cybersecurity is about protecting that information and data from potential digital "thieves" (like protecting valuables in your home). Both are crucial to keep everything running smoothly and securely in the digital world!.

[Audio] Threat Intelligence Lifecycle The Threat Intelligence Lifecycle represents the ongoing process of acquiring, analyzing, applying, and improving threat intelligence within an organization to enhance its cybersecurity posture. It involves a series of interconnected stages to effectively identify, evaluate, and respond to cyber threats.

[Audio] Frameworks of Threat Intelligence Lifecycle Planning & Direction Processing Analysis Collection Integration Dissemination Feedback & Improvement Application.

[Audio] Planning and Direction In this initial phase, organizations define their goals, objectives, and requirements for threat intelligence. They establish the scope, priorities, and the types of threats they want to focus on. Understanding the organization's environment, assets, and potential adversaries is crucial during this planning stage. During the collection stage, relevant data and information about potential threats and vulnerabilities are gathered from various sources. This includes open-source intelligence (OSINT), subscribed feeds, government alerts, incident reports, dark web monitoring, and more. The data can be raw or processed, depending on the source. Collection "Planning and Direction" is like making a map before going on an adventure. Imagine you're going on a treasure hunt in a big, unfamiliar forest. Before you start, you need to plan and decide which path to take, what landmarks to look for, and how to reach the treasure. In the same way, when you have a task or a big goal, you need a plan, just like a treasure map. This plan helps you figure out the steps you need to take and the direction you need to go in to successfully reach your goal. It's like having a roadmap or a game plan to guide you on your exciting adventure! "Collection" is like going on a treasure hunt and gathering all the clues you need to find the hidden treasure. Just like collecting different pieces of a puzzle, you pick up valuable hints and information that will help you later on. In the digital world or any project, "collection" means gathering all the important stuff you need to complete your task or understand something better. It's like grabbing all the right tools and resources, just as a treasure hunter collects clues, to succeed in your adventure or project!.

[Audio] Processing In this stage, the gathered raw data is refined, normalized, and structured to make it more manageable and useful for analysis. This involves cleaning and organizing the data, converting it into a standardized format, and applying any necessary transformations The processed data is then analyzed to extract meaningful insights. Analysts evaluate the threat data to identify patterns, trends, indicators of compromise (IoCs), tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by adversaries. This analysis helps in understanding potential threats and their potential impact on the organization. Analysis "Processing" is like getting all the puzzle pieces you've collected and putting them together in an organized way. Imagine you have a bunch of different shapes and colors, and you start arranging them to create a clear picture. In a similar way, when you've collected information or data, "processing" means organizing and arranging it in a manner that makes sense. It's like sorting and arranging things so you can understand what you've gathered and use it effectively, just like putting together puzzle pieces to see the complete picture! "Analysis" is like being a detective and figuring out what all the clues you've gathered really mean. Imagine you've collected a bunch of evidence, and now you're carefully examining each piece to understand the whole story. In the digital world or any project, "analysis" means carefully looking at the information you've collected, studying it, and connecting the dots to understand what's happening or what it implies. It's like solving a mystery, where you use the evidence to uncover the truth or find the best solution!.

[Audio] Integration Integrated threat intelligence involves merging the analyzed threat data with the organization's existing security infrastructure and tools, such as SIEM systems, firewalls, and IDS/IPS. By integrating intelligence into these systems, organizations can proactively detect and respond to potential threats based on the analyzed intelligence. The insights and intelligence derived from the analysis need to be shared effectively across the organization. This stage involves creating reports, alerts, and notifications that are distributed to relevant stakeholders, including incident response teams, IT administrators, and decision-makers. The dissemination ensures that the right people have the necessary information to act upon. Dissemination "Integration" is like putting together all the different pieces you've collected and making them work as a team. Imagine you have a team of superheroes, each with a unique power. When they work together, combining their powers, they can solve big challenges much better than they could individually. In a similar way, in the digital world or any project, "integration" means combining different parts or pieces (like tools, ideas, or systems) so that they work together smoothly. It's like making sure all your team members or tools are on the same page, supporting each other to achieve a common goal. Together, they create a stronger and more effective force! "Dissemination" is like sharing exciting news or a cool story with your friends. Imagine you've discovered a fantastic adventure and you can't wait to tell your pals all about it. In a similar way, in a project or any field, "dissemination" means spreading or sharing information, ideas, or findings with others. It's like telling everyone the exciting things you've learned or accomplished so they can benefit or be inspired too. Sharing the adventure makes it even more fun for everyone involved!.

[Audio] Application Applying threat intelligence involves using the derived insights to enhance security measures and processes. This can include updating and tuning security controls, modifying access policies, implementing patches, conducting security awareness training, and improving incident response procedures. The goal is to mitigate potential risks and vulnerabilities. Feedback and Improvement The threat intelligence lifecycle is a continuous process. Organizations need to collect feedback from the application stage, evaluate the effectiveness of their actions, and identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop ensures that the threat intelligence program evolves and adapts to changing threat landscapes and organizational needs. "Application" is like using your knowledge and skills to solve a real-life puzzle or complete a task. Imagine you've learned how to build a cool Lego castle by following instructions. When you actually put those skills to use and build the castle, that's applying what you've learned! In a similar way, in a project or any situation, "application" means using what you know or have learned to do something practical. It's like taking what you've gathered and understood, and using it to make a real difference or solve a real problem. Just like building with Legos, it's where the real fun and value come in! "Feedback and Improvement" is like playing a game and learning from your moves to become better. Imagine you're playing a video game, and each time you play, you figure out what works and what doesn't. You learn and adjust your strategy to score higher and succeed. In a similar way, after you've completed a project or task, "Feedback and Improvement" means looking back at what you did. You identify what went well and what could be done better. It's like learning from your experience and making small changes or improvements so that next time you can do even better. It's how you level up in the game of getting things done!.

[Audio] By following Threat Intelligence Lifecycle, organizations can effectively utilize threat intelligence to bolster their cybersecurity defenses, respond swiftly to emerging threats, and continually improve their security posture..

[Audio] Seven Phases of Cyberattack Typically refer to the various stages a cyber attacker goes through in order to execute a successful cyber intrusion. These phases help in understanding the lifecycle of a cyberattack and developing effective strategies to prevent, detect, and respond to such attacks. The phases may vary slightly based on the cybersecurity framework or model being referenced, but generally include:.

[Audio] Reconnaissance Delivery Exploitation Weaponization Installation Command and Control Actions on Objectives.

[Audio] Reconnaissance Reconnaissance is the first stage in the Cyber Kill Chain and involves researching potential targets before carrying out any penetration testing. The reconnaissance stage may include identifying potential targets, finding their vulnerabilities, discovering which third parties are connected to them (and what data they can access), and exploring existing entry points as well as finding new ones. Reconnaissance can take place both online and offline. Weaponization The weaponization stage of the Cyber Kill Chain occurs after reconnaissance has taken place and the attacker has discovered all necessary information about potential targets, such as vulnerabilities. In the weaponization stage, all of the attacker’s preparatory work culminates in the creation of malware to be used against an identified target. Weaponization can include creating new types of malware or modifying existing tools to use in a cyberattack. For example, cybercriminals may make minor modifications to an existing ransomware variant to create a new Cyber Kill Chain tool. Reconnaissance: Reconnaissance is like being a detective. Imagine you want to learn about a surprise party. You quietly gather clues about when and where it will happen and who will be there. In the digital world, it's when 'spies' gather information about a computer system or a company secretly. Weaponization: Weaponization is like turning a toy into a tricky gadget. Imagine your toy car suddenly gets wings and a laser! In the digital world, it's when someone takes harmless things like files or messages and adds dangerous stuff to make a cyber weapon. This 'cyber weapon' can harm or take over computers.

[Audio] Delivery In the delivery stage, cyberweapons and other Cyber Kill Chain tools are used to infiltrate a target’s network and reach users. Delivery may involve sending phishing emails containing malware attachments with subject lines that prompt users to click through. Delivery can also take the form of hacking into an organization’s network and exploiting a hardware or software vulnerability to infiltrate it. Exploitation Exploitation is the stage that follows delivery and weaponization. In the exploitation step of the Cyber Kill Chain, attackers take advantage of the vulnerabilities they have discovered in previous stages to further infiltrate a target’s network and achieve their objectives. In this process, cybercriminals often move laterally across a network to reach their targets. Exploitation can sometimes lead attackers to their targets if those responsible for the network have not deployed deception measures. Delivery: Delivery is like sending a gift. Just as you receive a present, sometimes bad guys send harmful stuff to your computer. It could come through email or websites. Once it's there, it can start causing problems or letting in more bad stuff. Exploitation: Exploitation is like finding a secret door in a castle. When bad guys discover a weakness in your computer or system, they can use it like a secret door to get inside. Once they're in, they can do things they're not supposed to..

[Audio] Installation After cybercriminals have exploited their target’s vulnerabilities to gain access to a network, they begin the installation stage of the Cyber Kill Chain: attempting to install malware and other cyberweapons onto the target network to take control of its systems and exfiltrate valuable data. In this step, cybercriminals may install cyberweapons and malware using Trojan horses, backdoors, or command-line interfaces. Command and Control In the C2 stage of the Cyber Kill Chain, cybercriminals communicate with the malware they’ve installed onto a target’s network to instruct cyberweapons or tools to carry out their objectives. For example, attackers may use communication channels to direct computers infected with the Mirai botnet malware to overload a website with traffic or C2 servers to instruct computers to carry out cybercrime objectives. Installation: Installation is like a burglar sneaking into a house and making a secret room. When bad guys break into your computer, they create hidden spaces to stay and do bad things without being noticed. It's like setting up a secret base. Command and Control: Command and Control is like the boss giving instructions to workers. In the digital world, after bad guys break into a computer, they have a 'boss' computer. This 'boss' tells all the other 'worker' computers what to do—like stealing information or attacking more computers..

[Audio] Actions on Objectives After cybercriminals have developed cyberweapons, installed them onto a target’s network, and taken control of their target’s network, they begin the final stage of the Cyber Kill Chain: carrying out their cyberattack objectives. While cybercriminals’ objectives vary depending on the type of cyberattack, some examples include weaponizing a botnet to interrupt services with a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, distributing malware to steal sensitive data from a target organization, and using ransomware as a cyber extortion tool. Actions on Objectives: Actions on Objectives are like the bad guys carrying out their big plan. Imagine they've broken into a museum. Their objective could be to steal a valuable painting. So, actions on objectives are when they grab the painting and make their escape. In the digital world, it's when bad guys achieve their main goals, like stealing important data or causing major damage..