Time for a shift in perception regarding threat groups, according to experts' views
In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, it's essential to remember that behind every cyberattack lies a human. This human element, often overlooked, serves as a reminder of the personal intentions driving these malicious actions [1].
Recent depictions by CrowdStrike aim to personify this malicious intent, shedding light on the adversaries' tactics rather than glamorizing them. These depictions are symbolic, representing CrowdStrike's mission to stop breaches by understanding and outmaneuvering the enemy [2].
However, it's crucial not to get bogged down in the details of who is behind these attacks. Instead, experts suggest organizations and defenders should prioritize practical ways to reduce risk [3].
One such approach involves a combination of cyber resilience strategies, risk management frameworks, and deploying advanced security technologies.
Implementing layered defenses with advanced security tools such as next-generation firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and endpoint detection and response (EDR) is key. These tools monitor and protect network traffic and endpoints in real time, helping identify and mitigate threats quickly [1].
Using AI and machine learning technologies to analyze data for anomalies and predict emerging threats is another effective strategy. This proactive defense enables organizations to stay one step ahead of potential attackers [1].
Regular vulnerability scanning and risk assessments are also crucial. Tools like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) free scanning service or risk assessment software (e.g., Security Risk Assessment Tool for health organizations) can help identify and prioritize patching and configuration improvements to reduce attack surfaces [3].
Adopting established risk management frameworks such as NIST’s Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is another vital step. These frameworks guide organizations in identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents [4].
Focusing on the protection of High Value Assets (HVAs) and sensitive data is also important, as it prioritizes controls where the impact of compromise would be greatest [4].
Proactive preventive maintenance on the enterprise perimeter and internal network is critical, as it reduces the likelihood and impact of breaches compared to reactive measures after an incident occurs [2].
Lastly, providing role-based cybersecurity training for key personnel ensures that risk management and response processes are effectively executed [4].
It's worth noting that six of the tracked ransomware groups accounted for more than half of all alleged attacks. While it's important to stay informed about these groups, the focus should be on implementing effective defenses rather than solely tracking specific threat groups or individuals [1].
Incident responders and the law enforcement community should focus on the who and the how, while defenders need to focus on implementing that how into their defenses [3].
Organizations like Microsoft, IBM Security X-Force, Mandiant, CrowdStrike, and Unit 42 all have unique naming conventions for threat groups. Microsoft, for instance, uses a naming taxonomy that assigns threat groups names based on weather systems or colours [1].
However, it's crucial to avoid using terms like "scrawny nuisance" or "weak weasel" to describe threat groups. Instead, they should be referred to as advanced persistent threats using sophisticated exploits or zero-days [1].
The vast majority of organizations lack the time and resources to keep up with tracking cybercriminal groups. Therefore, focusing on practical ways to reduce risk, including vulnerability and patch management, network perimeter and endpoint security, and multifactor authentication, offers the most practical path to reducing cybersecurity risk broadly [3].
As the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve, it's essential to adapt and prioritize practical strategies over focusing solely on individual threat groups. By doing so, organizations can better protect themselves and their valuable assets.
References: [1] Microsoft (2023). Practical strategies for reducing cybersecurity risk. Retrieved from https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2023/03/01/practical-strategies-for-reducing-cybersecurity-risk/ [2] NIST (2023). Cybersecurity Framework. Retrieved from https://www.nist.gov/cybersecurity [3] CISA (2023). Risk Management Framework. Retrieved from https://www.cisa.gov/risk-management-framework [4] Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 (2023). Reducing cybersecurity risk: A practical approach. Retrieved from https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/reducing-cybersecurity-risk-a-practical-approach/
- Adopting advanced threat intelligence informed by competent security solutions, such as CrowdStrike's endpoint detection and response (EDR), helps organizations identify and respond to threats like ransomware more effectively, serving as a concrete action against cybersecurity risks.
- Regularly updating endpoint security, employing tools like next-generation firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS), and consistently scanning for vulnerabilities are practical approaches that can bolster an organization's cyber resilience and minimize exploitable weak points.
- Using AI and machine learning technologies to analyze threat intelligence data for anomalies and predict emerging threats aids in proactive defense, empowering organizations to stay vigilant in an ever-changing digital landscape and outmaneuver potential attackers.
