CompTIA Security + 701 Domain 1: General Security Concepts Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify security concepts to protect data, ensure availability, and mitigate cyber threats effectively Compare and contrast various types of security controls to optimize protection against cyber threats Interpret personnel security to safeguard networks against threats Discover the importance of change management processes and their impact on security to maintain operational stability Identify the importance of using appropriate cryptographic solutions to secure data and communications effectively Introduction to Security Concepts What Is Information Security?
Information security, often called InfoSec, is the practice of protecting information by mitigating information risks.
It is about safeguarding data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.
Information can be anything valuable, including customer data, financial records, intellectual property, personal details, and even classified government information.
Why Information Security?
With digital transformation and integration comes a heightened risk of cyber threats.
Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue; it is also a business and personal concern.
From identity theft to financial fraud, the repercussions of a security breach can be far reaching and devastating.
The advent of artificial intelligence and deepfakes has added fuel to the fire and worsened the situation.
Factors Impacting Information Security Nature of business Security culture Legal and regulatory compliance Management support Risk appetite Industry threats Cybersecurity Cybersecurity is the process of securing sensitive data and critical systems from cyber threats.
It refers to anything intended to protect enterprises from intentional attacks, breaches, incidents, and consequences.
It can also be defined as protecting information assets by addressing threats to information processed, stored, and transported by internetworked information systems.
Goal of Cybersecurity The primary objective of cybersecurity is to preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of an organization's critical assets from attack, damage, or unauthorized access.
Why Is Cybersecurity Important?
Due to technological advancement, the rate of cybercrime is increasing.
As most of the business happens online, there is an increasing demand to protect this data.
The presence of crime syndicates, cyber armies, and financial frauds has also highlighted the importance of cybersecurity.
Difference Between Information Security and Cybersecurity Information Security Information security deals with information regardless of its format.
It encompasses paper documents, digital data, and intellectual property.
Cybersecurity Cybersecurity is a component of information security.
It can be defined as the protection of information assets by addressing threats to information processed, stored, and transported by internetworked information systems.
Risks of Security on Business Reputational and financial loss Legal action against company Business interruption loss Loss of customer confidence Intellectual property loss Data breach Terrifying Cybercrime Statistics Recent trends that make Cybersecurity more important: During 2023, 5 billion data breaches were reported, compromising around 867 million records.
Google blocked over 2.8 million bad apps from entering the Play Store in 2023.
Ransomware attacks on the healthcare industry will quadruple.
Cybercrime is expected to cost 23.84 trillion by 2025.
There will be 350 billion passwords worldwide by 2025.
More than 60% of fraud originates from mobile devices.
Personal data sells for as little as $0.20.
90% of hackers use encryption.
Approaches to Cybersecurity Compliance based Ad hoc Relies on regulations or standards to determine security implementation Implements security with no rationale or criteria Risk based Relies on identifying the unique risk a particular organization faces and designing and implementing security controls to address that risk CIA CIA Triad This stands for confidentiality, integrity, and availability, which are the primary goals of cybersecurity.
Confidentiality CIA Integrity Availability CIA Triad: Confidentiality Confidentiality means private or confidential information should not be disclosed to unauthorized individuals.
Confidentiality CIA Integrity Availability CIA Triad: Confidentiality Intentional attacks Accidental leakage Man in the middle attack, packet sniffing, and hacking Untrained employees Threats to confidentiality Authentication and authorization failures Access to a least privileged entity Hardware or software failures Improper media sanitization CIA Triad: Confidentiality The following are some countermeasures to ensure confidentiality: Encryption Access control Administrative policies Converts information to an unreadable format Prevents users from accessing confidential information without permission Confidentiality policy and nondisclosure agreement (NDA) act as deterrent control CIA Triad: Integrity Integrity means that information or systems should be protected from intentional, unauthorized, or accidental changes.
Confidentiality CIA Integrity Availability CIA Triad: Integrity Threats to integrity are: Intentional alteration (virus attack, database hack) Environmental factors (electromagnetic interference) System malfunction (improper software configuration) Accidental modifications (lack of input validation and training) CIA Triad: Integrity The following are some countermeasures to ensure integrity: Cryptographic hash Checksums Database integrity Hash value of a file can be used to figure out if the file has been modified.
Checksums can detect errors and reconstruct missing data.
Referential and entity integrity ensure logical consistency.
CIA Triad: Availability Availability means systems or information must be available on demand according to agreed upon parameters.
Confidentiality CIA Integrity Availability CIA Triad: Availability Threats to availability are: Malicious attackers (DDoS, ransomware) Device or system failures (system crash) Supply system failures (power outage, Internet downtime) Environmental issues (fire, earthquake, tornadoes) CIA Triad: Availability The following are some countermeasures to ensure availability: High availability Backup procedures Security devices Ensure system availability at all times.
Ensure data restoration after a disaster Prevent DoS/DDoS attacks by deploying intrusion prevention system (IPS) and web application firewall (WAF) Non Repudiation Non Repudiation Non repudiation, in the context of cryptography and information security, refers to a service that provides proof that a particular action or event cannot be denied by anyone.
This prevents denial of actions, ensuring accountability and reliability in electronic transactions and communications.
Non repudiation ensures proof of the origin and integrity of data exchanged between parties.
Tools for Non Repudiation Digital signature: Utilizes Audit trail: Involves maintaining cryptographic identifiers to confirm the senders identity and ensure the integrity of the content chronological records of actions, which are crucial for tracing events and assigning accountability to the parties involved.
Secure timestamping: Involves a trusted third party service that creates a verifiable record of the exact time a digital record was created AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting) AAA In computer security, AAA stands for Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting.
Authentication It is a framework that controls user access to networks and resources, ensuring only authorized users can access specific resources and monitor their activities.
AAA Accounting Authorization Identification The process of an individual claiming or professing an identity is known as identification.
To begin the authentication, authorization, and accountability procedures, a subject must submit an identity to the system.
Authentication Authentication is the process of comparing one or more criteria to a database of legitimate identities such as user accounts, to validate the subject's identity.
An example of identification and authentication is a username and password.
Users identify themselves with usernames and authenticate with passwords.
Authorization Authorization is the process of granting access to an object after the subject has been properly identified and authenticated.
Example: CRUD operations include create, read, update, and delete Accounting Accounting is the ability of a system to associate users and processes with their actions.
Example: Keeping a record of user activity like time of login, IP address, activities performed, and so on AAA: Summary Identification Providing identity Authentication Verifying identity Authorization Granting access Accounting Tracking activity Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi factor authentication is a type of authentication that requires the use of more than one different authentication factor to be successful.
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Based on the type of authentication, MFA can be categorized into: Something you know Something you have Something you are MFA: Types Two factor authentication Three factor authentication Uses a combination of any two of three authentication factors available Uses all three authentication factors Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Something you know Something you have Something you are Known as authentication by knowledge Something that only the user knows Example: Password, PIN, or answers to challenge questions Least expensive method to implement Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Something you know Something you have Known as authentication by ownership Some physical objects in the possession of the user Example: Token or smart card Something you are Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Something you know Something you have Something you are Known as authentication by characteristics Some physical characteristics of a user, like biometrics Example: Biometrics or a fingerprint Most expensive and secure method AAA Protocols The AAA protocol, which stands for authentication, authorization, and accounting, is a framework used to manage access and security in computer networks.
It essentially regulates who can access network resources (authentication), what they're allowed to do once they're in (authorization), and tracks their activity (accounting).
AAA protocols are typically implemented on a centralized server, which can manage access control for multiple network devices.
This simplifies administration and ensures consistent enforcement of security policies.
AAA AAA Protocols Radius TACACS+ RADIUS Remote Authentication Dial in User Service TACACS+ Terminal Access Controller Access Control System Plus Diameter Remote Authentication Dial in User Service (RADIUS) RADIUS is a networking protocol created in 1991 to offer centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) management for users that connect to and utilize a network service.
Remote Authentication Dial in User Service (RADIUS) It is a client or server protocol running in the application layer.
Encrypts only the password Uses UDP as the transport layer Attributes of RADIUS: Serves often as the backend choice for 802.1X authentication Uses TCP as the transport layer with TLS for security since 2012 Remote Authentication Dial In User Service (RADIUS) Remote user database (Authorization RADIUS protocol server) Remote user Access request Remote user Remote user Network access server Access accept or reject RADIUS server Terminal Access Controller Access Control System Plus (TACACS+) TACACS+ is a CISCO networking protocol that manages authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) through a centralized server.
Terminal Access Controller Access Control System Plus (TACACS+) It is a completely new protocol Intentional alteration (virus incompatible with TACACS and attack, database hack) XTACACS.
It separates the tasks of authentication, authorization, and accounting.
It also encrypts packets(improper sent and System malfunction received from the TACACS+ server.
software configuration) Accidental modifications (lack of It uses TCP to provide a high quality input validation, lack of training) connection.
Diameter It is a protocol that supports all forms of remote connectivity.
It uses 32 bits for the attribute value pair (AVP) field.
It uses TCP port 3868.
Diameter security uses existing encryption standards, including IPsec or TLS.
It is a peer based protocol.
The server or client initiates communication.
It has better error detection, correction, and failover functionality than RADIUS.
Benefits of AAA Intentional alteration (virus Centralized management attack, database hack) Improved security Accidental modifications (lack of Scalability input validation, lack of training) System malfunction (improper Auditing software configuration) Decentralized Access Control (DAC) DAC is a concept in cybersecurity that moves away from centralized control of access permissions It provides access control decisions to people closer to the resources.
Functional manager assigns access control rights to employees.
Changes can happen faster.
Conflict of interest possibility can arise.
It does not provide uniformity and fairness across the organization.
Certain actions can overlap.
Decentralized Access Control Site administrators are responsible for managing their sites independently.
A sample scenario is as follows: Site D Site C Site A Site B Gap Analysis Gap Analysis A security gap analysis systematically assesses the differences between an organization's current security posture and its desired state, evaluating practices against standards, regulations, and industry best practices.
Goals of Gap Analysis Assess compliance gaps with Intentional alteration (virus relevant security standards or attack, database hack) regulations Identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in the existing security controls Develop a roadmap for addressing System malfunction (improper security gaps and improving the software configuration) overall security posture Accidental modifications (lack of Prioritize security risks based on input validation, lack of training) likelihood and impact Steps in Gap Analysis Define the desired security state Evaluate the current security controls Assess risk Develop an action plan Identify gaps and vulnerabilities Step 1: Define the Desired State This involves outlining your organization's security goals and objectives.
Consider industry standards, regulations, and best practices that may be relevant.
Step 2: Evaluate the Security Controls This stage involves taking inventory of the existing security measures across different areas as follows: Network security Remote access capabilities Endpoint security Access controls Security awareness and training Incident response Data security Step 3: Identify Gaps and Vulnerabilities Compare the desired security state with the current controls.
This will reveal areas where the defenses are lacking or not aligned with the goals.
The following are some identified gaps: Weak password policies Unpatched systems Lack of multifactor authentication Unencrypted sensitive data Step 4: Assess Risk Analyze the potential impact and likelihood of exploiting identified vulnerabilities.
Prioritize the most critical gaps that pose the greatest risk to the organization.
Step 5: Develop an Action Plan Create a roadmap to address the identified security gaps.
This plan should include: Specific actions to be taken Resources required Timeline for implementation Benefits of Security Gap Analysis Improved security posture: By identifying and addressing gaps, you can significantly strengthen the overall security defenses Enhanced risk management: Prioritizing vulnerabilities allows to focus resources on the areas that matter most Compliance readiness: Regular gap analysis ensures you are on track to meet the security requirements of regulations or standards Better decision making: Data driven insights from the analysis help make informed security investments Tools and Techniques for Security Gap Analysis Vulnerability scanning tools Security questionnaires and checklists Security rating platforms System malfunction Penetration testing(improper tools software configuration) Zero Trust Architecture and Defense in Depth Zero Trust Network Zero trust network is a security model based on the principle of trust nothing and verify everything. Devices should not be trusted by default, even if connected to a managed corporate network or were previously verified.
Every person and device accessing a private network must undergo identity verification, whether inside or outside the network perimeter.
Defense in Depth Defense in Depth (DiD) is an approach to cybersecurity in which a series of defensive mechanisms are layered to protect valuable data and information.
Policies, procedures, and awareness Physical Network Computer Application Device This multi layered strategy enhances overall system security and addresses various attack vectors.
Core Tenets of Zero Trust Architecture Least privilege Microsegmentation Data encryption Identity and access management Continuous verification Context aware authentication Multifactor authentication Zero Trust Control Planes These are parts of the network architecture responsible for routing and traffic control and plays a crucial role in the zero trust model by enabling intelligent decisions.
The following are the components of control planes: Policy enforcement point Adaptive identity Threat scope reduction Policy engine Policy driven access control Adaptive Identity Adaptive identity is a crucial concept, moving beyond static verification and acknowledging that trust is not a one time occurrence.
Considers contextual factors like user location, device type, time of access, and behavior patterns Continuously monitors user activity and device health for suspicious behavior Threat Scope Reductions Zero trust security aims to reduce the impact of security threats by limiting the attack surface and blast radius.
The scope of potential threats is reduced by limiting the privileges of users, systems, and processes, minimizing points of attack.
This is achieved through least privilege access, microsegmentation, continuous verification, and deny all by default.
Policy Driven Access Control Access to network resources is granted or denied based on predefined policies that consider factors like user role, data type, and device security status.
This is achieved through centralized policy management, implementing the least privilege principle, dynamic access control, integration with adaptive identity, and reducing the attack surface.
Policy Engine The policy engine determines access to critical network resources on a per user basis.
It operates based on policies set by the organization's security team.
The engine uses context from SIEM data, threat intelligence, user attributes, and device information.
It communicates decisions to a policy administrator for execution.
Policy Enforcement Point The Policy Enforcement Point (PEP) is crucial in access control, ensuring security by implementing decisions and rules set by the Policy Engine: Acts as the gatekeeper, enforcing access control decisions made by the Policy Engine.
Functions like a security checkpoint, ensuring only authorized actions get through and preventing breaches.
Zero Trust Data Planes The data plane in cybersecurity is the operational core that moves and forwards data packets within a network, handling routing, switching, and packet forwarding based on predefined rules.
In a Zero Trust framework, the data plane enforces control plane policies, ensuring data packets are routed, inspected, and modified based on security protocols.
Data Planes: Components The following are the components of data planes: Subjects or systems Internal network zone External network zone 1 3 5 2 Implicit trust zones 4 Demilitarized zone Subjects or Systems Subjects Entities that initiate data communication Can be users, applications, or devices Generate data packets that need to be transmitted Systems Collective infrastructure, resources, and devices responsible for processing and forwarding data packets Includes routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, and other network equipment Subjects and systems work in tandem to ensure efficient and secure data transmission within the network architecture.
Implicit Trust Zone An implicit trust zone refers to areas within a network or system where certain levels of trust are assumed without explicit verification.
Importance: Simplifies communication within the zone Reduces the need for constant authentication and verification Enhances operational efficiency Established through predefined rules and configurations Ideal for trusted environments like internal corporate networks or secure cloud segments Internal Network Zones An internal network zone refers to a segment within a company's network where devices and resources are considered trustworthy.
Characteristics: Protected by the organization's firewall Known as the local area network (LAN) Typically houses critical infrastructure like domain controllers and database servers Demilitarized Zones The DMZ is an area that is neither fully trusted nor entirely untrusted.
Its an intermediate zone that allows controlled access to certain services from the external network.
Characteristics: Communication between the DMZ and the internal network might be subject to more stringent controls.
It is also known as a screened subnet, where resources accessed by untrusted and trusted networks reside.
External Zones External networks, such as the Internet, are typically treated as untrusted zones due to their inherent risks.
Characteristics: Communication from the external network into the internal network usually requires strong security measures.
Also known as the wide area network (WAN) an untrusted network.
Zero Trust vs. Defense in Depth The following are the key distinctions between the traditional Defense in Depth and the modern Zero Trust security models.
Physical Security Site and Facility Design Criteria Physical security is a fundamental component of a security strategy, serving as the foundation for all subsequent safeguards including those related to personnel and information systems.
The primary objective of this security framework is to protect life, property, and the continuity of operations.
Security professionals examine all construction aspects and apply a layered security strategy from the site perimeter to individual desktop computers.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) CPTED is a multi disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behavior through environmental design.
Examples: Streets, parks, museums, government buildings, houses, and commercial complexes INFORMAL SURVEILLANCE LIGHTING Territoriality DEFINED SPACE LEGIBILITY The three environmental strategies of CPTED are: Surveillance DEFINED PERMEABILITY Access Control Support Facilities Ensuring the proper management and maintenance of support facilities is crucial for maintaining system integrity and operational efficiency.
Key factors include: HVAC Water Let IT managers know who handles heating, ventilation, and air conditioning Turn off all power, drain water, place affected equipment in an airconditioned area, and wipe with water displacement spray Electricity Install surge protectors and UPS, use backup sources for critical systems, and install anti static carpet Earthquakes Keep computers away from windows and high surfaces, use shock absorbers and anchors, and ensure no objects fall on them Lightning Switch off systems, unplug them, and store backup tapes away from the building's steel supports Data Center Security: Guidelines Place data centers, server rooms, and wiring closets at the facility's core Position wiring closets directly above or below each other in multistory buildings Ensure access to data centers is through a single door; use additional doors as one way exits Avoid placing data centers in basements or upper floors Construct the data processing center as a single room, not multiple rooms Maintain positive air pressure in data centers to prevent contaminants; install water detectors under raised floors and on dropped ceilings Implement HVAC systems for temperature and humidity control Personnel Access Control Effective personnel access control is essential for organizational security.
The differences between piggybacking and tailgating are: Piggybacking Piggybacking is when another person follows through a door with the permission of the person who has received access.
Tailgating Tailgating is when another person, whether an employee or not, passes through a secure door without the knowledge of the person who has gained legitimate access through the secure door.
Mantraps and Turnstiles Mantraps It is a double set of doors often protected by a guard or some other physical layout that prevents piggybacking and can trap individuals at the discretion of security personnel.
Turnstiles It is a form of gate that prevents more than one person at a time from gaining entry and often restricts movement in one direction, serving as the equivalent of a secured revolving door.
Access Control Smart card Security ID with an embedded magnetic strip, bar code, or integrated circuit chip Can process information or store a reasonable amount of data in memory Can be used in multifactor authentication to improve security Vulnerable to physical security attacks Memory card Machine readable ID cards with memory sticks Can hold a small amount of data in memory but cannot process it Are easy to copy or duplicate Proximity reader A passive device or transponder that can be used to control physical access A passive device, typically worn by an individual, that alters the magnetic field generated by the reader when detected and processed Fire Prevention, Detection, and Suppression Fire Prevention Training employees for fire safety Supplying the right equipment and ensuring their working conditions Storing combustible materials properly Fire Detection Placing fire detectors at strategic points to detect smoke or fire Fire Suppression Systems Using a suppression agent to put out a fire Stages of Fire The different stages of fire progression are: Incipient stage Smoke stage Flame stage Heat stage In the initial stage, only air ionization, no smoke Smoke is visible from the point of ignition Flame can be seen with the naked eye Fire is considerably higher The earlier the fire is detected, the easier it is to be extinguished.
Fire Detection Devices Smoke Activated Good early warning devices Photoelectric device Detects a variation in light intensity and produces a beam of light, and if the light is obstructed, an alarm is produced Heat Activated Fixed temperate: Alarm is generated when a particular temperature is reached Rate of raise: Alarm is generated when the temperature rises over time Environmental Controls: Fire The following are the classes of fires: Class A Fires Class B Fires Class C Fires Class D Fires Class K Fires Environmental Controls: Fire The table given below indicates the types of fires and the corresponding extinguishing methods.
Class Description (Fuel) Extinguishing Method A Common combustibles, such as paper, wood, and clothing Water, Foam B Burnable fuels, such as gasoline or oil Inert Gas, CO2 C Electrical fires, such as computers and electronics Inert Gas, CO2 (Note: Most important step Turn off the electricity first) D Special fires, such as chemical or metal Dry Powder (May require total immersion or other special techniques) K Commercial kitchens Wet chemical Water Based Suppression System Wet Pipe Dry Pipe Always full of water, usually discharged by temperature control sensors Also called closed head systems Water is not stored in the pipe, instead, it contains compressed air Opening the water valve causes water to fill the pipes and discharge Combination of wet and dry pipe Preaction Water is not held in the pipes until the fire is detected Released only after the sprinkler head activation triggers are melted by sufficient heat Deluge Another form of dry pipe system that uses larger pipes and can deliver a significantly larger volume of water Gas Suppression Gas suppression is more efficient than water suppression as it quickly reduces oxygen levels, effectively extinguishing fires without collateral damage to sensitive equipment.
Usage safety These systems remove oxygen and should not be used in occupied areas to ensure safety.
Environmental concerns Halon is banned due to its severe environmental impact.
Eco friendly alternatives FM200, NAF S III, Argon, Inergen Motion Detectors Infrared Heat based Wave pattern Monitors significant changes in infrared lighting patterns within a monitored area Monitors significant changes in heat levels within a monitored area Emits and detects changes in ultrasonic waves within a monitored area Capacitance Photoelectric Passive audio Monitors changes in the electrical or magnetic fields surrounding a monitored object Monitors changes in visible light levels within a monitored area Listens for abnormal sounds within a monitored area Alarm Types Deterrent Alarms that trigger deterrent actions The goal is to make intrusion attempts more difficult.
Repellent Alarms that trigger sound or light The goal is to discourage intruders.
Notification Alarms that trigger notifications to security analyst Silent from an attacker's perspective, but it gives warning signals to the security team.
Emanation Security: Protecting Against Electronic Emanations Hardware and electronic devices can emit unintentional electronic signals that, if intercepted, may disclose sensitive information.
TEMPEST is a set of standards that protects against electronic eavesdropping by securing electromagnetic emissions.
Emanation Security: Protecting Against Electronic Emanations Various methods are deployed to mitigate risks associated with electronic emanations each tailored to specific security needs: Faraday cage White noise Control zone Encloses a metal mesh that absorbs EM signals surrounding the area Masks and conceals real emanations by broadcasting simulated traffic Defines areas to manage emanations, utilizing tools like Faraday cages or white noise HVAC Effective Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) management maintains ideal temperature and humidity in data centers, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of electronic equipment.
HVAC standards for data center stability and efficiency Temperature is maintained between 68 to 77F (20 25C) for ideal operational conditions.
Humidity levels are kept between 40% and 55% to prevent static electricity buildup and corrosion.
Positive pressure and proper drainage systems are employed to stabilize environmental conditions.
By carefully controlling temperature and humidity, HVAC systems protect sensitive electronic equipment and enhance overall efficiency.
Power Supply A reliable power supply is critical for any data center.
The following are common threats to the power system: Power loss Power excess Surge: Prolonged high voltage Blackout: Prolonged, complete loss of electric power Spike: Momentary high voltage Fault: Momentary power outage Power degradation Brownout: Prolonged reduction in voltage Sag or dip: Momentary reduction in voltage Security Training and Awareness Physical security awareness and training are very critical.
It should include: Training on operating emergency power systems Training on operating fire extinguishers Evacuation routes should be prominently displayed Fire drills Perimeter Security Controls Perimeter defenses are critical for preventing, detecting, and correcting unauthorized access into the facility.
Data vault Offices Employs the defense in depth concept for enhanced security Features layered architectural barriers where the core area is most protected Designs security systems with multiple barriers known as rings of protection Reduces the likelihood of successful attacks through layered design Employee Parking Key features Rack Mech.
room Deliveries and services Delivery Room Data Center Buildings Employee car entrance Grounds Common area Foot entrance for visitors Fence Visitor parking Depth of Security Concentric areas to protect data center Darker = More Secure = Access Point Barriers Barriers strategically define and outline how an area should be architecturally designed and to obstruct or deny unauthorized access effectively.
Objectives of barriers include: Keep intruders out Cause delays in intrusion Control access points Enable surveillance Provide safe evacuation routes Fences Fences serve as crucial perimeter identifiers meticulously designed and strategically installed to effectively deter and prevent unauthorized access by keeping intruders out.
The various types of fences include: Height Effectiveness 3 4 ft Deters casual trespassers 6 8 ft Too difficult to climb easily 8 ft plus 3 strands of barbed or razor wire Deters determined trespassers Chain link Barbed wire Barbed tape Concertina wire Selecting the appropriate fence type and height is essential for maximizing perimeter security and effectively managing the specific risks associated with unauthorized entry.
Walls and Bollards Walls and bollards serve as crucial man made barriers designed to enhance physical security by obstructing unauthorized access.
Walls Walls are more permanent and sturdy barriers, generally resulting in higher installation costs.
Common materials include cinder blocks, masonry, brick, and stone.
Bollards Bollards are robust concrete pillars used to restrict vehicle access while permitting pedestrian movement, often employed to control traffic.
Perimeter Intrusion Detection Perimeter sensors alert security when any intruders attempt to gain access across the open space or attempt to breach the fence line.
Open terrain sensors include: Infrared Microwave systems Time domain reflectometry (TDR) systems Video content analysis and motion path analysis Importance of Lighting in Security Effective lighting is pivotal in security, ensuring visibility and deterrence throughout low light hours.
Improves visibility: Allows security personnel to clearly assess surroundings during nighttime Enhances surveillance: Boosts the performance of CCTV, providing clearer footage under all conditions Deters intruders: Acts as a psychological deterrent, reducing potential security breaches Cost effective: Maintains minimal upkeep costs, offering a sustainable security enhancement Types of Lighting Systems The following are the main types of lighting systems, each serving distinct functions within a security framework: Continuous Light Emergency light Standby light Movable light Access Control To control panel An access control system (ACS) allows only authorized personnel into a controlled area to reduce the risk of crime.
Door Contact Basic components of an ACS include: Card readers Electric locks Alarms Computer systems Electric Strike Reader (card, keypad or biometric) Exit button Types of Access Control Systems Access cards Types include magnetic stripes/ proximity cards/ smart cards Biometrics Methods encompass fingerprint, facial image, hand geometry, voice recognition, iris patterns, retina scanning, signature dynamics, and keystroke dynamics Closed circuit televisions Comprise cameras, recorders, switches, keyboards, and monitors that enable the observation and recording of security events CCTV color camera Provides additional details, such as the color of a vehicle or a subject's clothing Types of Access Control Systems Digital video recorder (DVR) and monitor displays Security patrols Guard dogs Camera footage is downloaded to a hard drive for historical information storage.
Guards or officers patrol and inspect properties to safeguard against fire, theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activities.
Guard dogs serve as a physical control that provides detective, preventive, and deterrent security measures.
Deceptive Technologies Deceptive Technologies These are cybersecurity solutions designed to outsmart attackers by creating a web of illusions within your network.
This technology can assist in: Early threat detection Reduced dwell time Improved incident response Wasting attacker resources Honeypot Honeypot is a network attached system set up as a decoy to lure cyber attackers and detect, deflect, and study hacking attempts to gain unauthorized access to information systems.
Features of Honeypot Honeypot is a decoy system It is a decoy system intended to intended to mimic likely targets for mimic likely targets for cyberattacks.
cyberattacks.
It It is is designed to confuse the attacker not hardened or locked down into thinking that it is a production with enabled services and open server.
ItIt is to confuse attackers is designed not hardened or locked down into believing is a production and has servicesitenabled and open server.
It does notnot contain anyanything sensitive or It does contain valuable data.
sensitive or valuable Honeynet A honeynet is a set of multiple honeypots linked together as a network or subnet that simulates a larger network installation.
Honeytokens Honeytokens are fictitious words or records added to legitimate databases to detect unauthorized attempts to access information.
They are characterized by properties that make them appear as genuine data items.
Honey file Honey files are not software applications or services but decoy files used for security purpose.
These files are decoy files intentionally placed on a network file share to lure attackers trying to steal data.
Types of Security Controls Asset An asset is any resource that gives value to an organization.
An asset can be tangible or intangible.
This includes people, hardware, software, data, information, or reputation.
Vulnerability Vulnerability refers to a condition in the system that, either intentionally or accidentally, causes a security weakness.
This compromises the security of the system.
Examples: Unpatched software, buffer overflow, lack of awareness training Threat A threat is anything that has the potential to cause harm to a system or data.
Intentional threats: These are malicious attempts to harm the system or steal data.
Natural threats: Floods, earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters can damage computer hardware and destroy data.
Unintentional threats: These are accidental events that can cause damage, even if they are not malicious.
Threat Agents A threat agent, also known as a threat actor, is an individual, group, or organization that can initiate an attack on a system or data.
Examples: Hackers, cybercriminals Risk Risk is defined by the International Systems Audit and Control Association as the combination of the probability of an event and its consequences.
Key terms associated with risk are: Impact Likelihood Magnitude of damage emerging from a threat exploiting a vulnerability Probability of a threat exploiting a particular vulnerability Examples of Risks Threat agent Threat Vulnerability Risk scenarios Fire Destruction of operating facility Faulty fire detection or suppression equipment Loss of life or property Clueless user Sharing of sensitive data using social engineering Lack of security awareness training Financial loss or reputation loss Malicious insider Data theft Lack of adequate access controls on data Legal risk, financial loss Unpatched server Server unavailability, financial loss Hacker Unauthorized hacking Security Controls Controls are necessary to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of assets.
Security controls are put into place to reduce the risk an organization faces.
Control Categories Administrative controls Technical controls Physical controls Administrative Controls Administrative controls are managerial controls focusing on personal and business practices.
These are the policies and procedures defined by an organization's security policy and other regulations or requirements.
Examples: Security documentation, risk management, personnel security, and training Technical Controls Technical controls, also known as logical controls, are implemented as systems such as hardware, software, or firmware.
Examples: Firewalls, IPS, antivirus software, and encryption Physical Controls Physical controls are implemented to protect facilities, personnel, and other physical resources.
Examples: Security guards, CCTV, locks, doors, fencing, and lighting Control Types Preventive Deterrent Detective Corrective Recovery Compensative Preventive Control Preventive or preventative controls are intended to stop an incident from occurring.
Preventative control operates before an attack and eliminates or reduces the likelihood of a successful attack.
Walls and locks can stop people from entering an area in an unauthorized manner.
Deterrent Control Deterrent controls are intended to discourage a potential attacker.
These may include warning signs, policies, NDAs, and legal penalties against trespasses or intrusions.
Detective Control Detective controls are intended to discover or detect unwanted or unauthorized activity.
These can include security guards, logs, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and the security team reviewing the outputs of a security information and event management (SIEM) system.
Corrective Control Corrective controls are intended to correct any problems resulting from a security incident.
They reduce or eliminate the opportunity for the unwanted event to recur.
Example: Fire extinguishers to put off fire or patching a system to fix vulnerabilities Recovery Control Recovery controls are intended to bring the environment back to regular operations.
These include backups and disaster recovery plans.
Compensative Control A compensative control, also known as an alternative control, is implemented to fulfill a security requirement deemed too difficult or impractical to implement currently.
Example: In a small firm, a single user has access to and performs the tasks of accepting cash payments and recording the payments.
Due to the nature of the business and for efficiency, the same user performs both tasks.
To prevent fraud, supervision is required.
Therefore, compensative control is required.
Example: A second user must perform a reconciliation, reviewing the cash against the recorded transactions.
Compensative Control Compensative control must meet the following four criteria: Have the intent and rigor of the original requirement Be above and beyond other requirements 1 3 2 Provide a similar level of defense as the original requirement 4 Be commensurate with the risk imposed by ignoring the original requirement Control Selection The selection of security controls will depend on the nature of the business, the complexity of the environment, and the assets' value.
Security control must make good business sense, which means it should be cost effective.
Its benefits must outweigh its costs.
Control Matrix Preventive Detective Deterrent Corrective Recovery Disaster recovery plan Administrative Separation of duties Audit Disciplinary policy Employee disciplinary actions Technical Firewall IDS Warning banner on login Vulnerability patches Data backup Physical Walls, fences, gates CCTV Beware of dog sign Fire suppression systems Disaster recovery site Multiple Control Facilities Control can provide several functionalities depending on their implementation and operation.
Example: Surveillance cameras can be considered a deterrent control since cameras discourage a potential attacker from doing an unauthorized action.
It is also considered a detective control.
It is also a compensative control since it provides an additional detection method for security guards.
Importance of Change Management Processes and the Impact to Security Business Process Impacting Security Operations A business process is a series of tasks used by an organization to achieve a goal or deliver a product or service.
Each process can affect security.
For example, an ineffective approval process can lead to poorly vetted changes and new vulnerabilities.
Performance baselines are used to measure the impact of changes on security.
Change Management Changes to the system are tracked and approved through change control procedures, which involve identifying, controlling, and auditing all changes made to the system.
Change control: Ensures changes are implemented in an orderly manner through formalized testing Ensures awareness is created among users about the impending change Analyzes the effect of the change on the system after implementation Reduces the negative impact of the change on the computing services and resources Change Management Process The procedures for change control process implementation and support include: 1.
Request for a change to be introduced A request is sent to the responsible individual or group who administers and approves changes.
Mandatory vacation 2.
Change approval After proper analysis and justification, the change is approved.
Change intended cataloging The change control log is updated and documented.
Mandatory vacation Mandatory vacation Change Management Process The procedures for change control process implementation and support include: 4.
Change testing 5.
Change scheduling and implementation Change is formally tested.
Change is scheduled and implemented.
Report to the appropriate parties about the Change is summarized and reported to the management.
change Change Types Standard change A pre authorized, low risk, and low impact change that is well understood, fully documented, and can be implemented without needing additional authorization is considered a standard change.
Normal change A change must follow the entire change process.
It should be scheduled, assessed, and authorized following a standard process.
This includes both minor (low to medium impact) and major (high impact) changes.
Change Types Emergency change Expedited Changes A high impact and urgent change that must be implemented as soon as possible without strictly following the standard process is known as an emergency change.
Expedited changes are a specific type of request that require faster approval and implementation than a standard change.
They are used for situations that require urgent implementation of a change but do not meet the criteria for an emergency change.
Change Advisory Board A Change Advisory Board (CAB) is a group of individuals from different departments within an organization responsible for reviewing and approving proposed changes.
The primary objective of a CAB is to ensure that any changes made to the organization, such as IT infrastructure and processes, are implemented smoothly and with minimal disruption.
Typically, the CAB includes representatives from IT, operations, finance, HR, and other relevant departments, although the specific members can vary based on the organization's size and structure.
Change Advisory Board Reviewing proposed changes to assess potential risks and impacts on different areas of the business Approving or rejecting proposed changes Monitoring the implementation of approved changes and addressing any issues that arise Responsibilities Change Advisory Board Mitigates risks associated with organizational changes Improves communication and collaboration between different departments Advantages Ensures that changes are aligned with the organization's overall goals and objectives Promotes a more controlled and orderly approach to change management Change Management System Activities Test analysis: Whenever a new security measure or change is implemented, it is wise to test it first.
Impact analysis Before implementing any changes, it is important to analyze how they could affect the organization.
Maintenance window: A maintenance window is a pre scheduled time for performing repairs and maintenance tasks.
Backout plan: A backout plan serves as a safety net during risky activities; it outlines how to undo a change if issues arise.
Standard operating procedure: A standard operating procedure is similar to a rulebook that guides how tasks and processes should be performed.
Technical Implications Technical implications refer to the potential consequences of a technology related decision or event in cybersecurity.
They can involve changes to network infrastructure, security protocols, or additional server capacity after implementing new software or systems.
It is essential to understand all technical implications of any new or existing system to ensure that functionality and security are maintained.
Technical Implications of Change Management Downtime Service restart Downtime adversely affects revenue.
To minimize this, we will implement a business continuity plan to prevent it.
Shutting down or rebooting systems can disrupt legitimate user access to computing resources and hinder incident response and recovery efforts.
Application restart Application restart vulnerabilities refer to potential security weaknesses that may arise when an application is restarted.
Inadequate restart procedures can lead to data inconsistencies or corruption.
Technical Implications of Change Management Legacy application Dependencies These are software that has been used for a long time, often with outdated security and no vendor support.
Services, such as the IP Helper service, depend on other services or system components to run before they can start running.
Whitelist or Blacklist or Restricted Activities Whitelists or Allow lists An allow list grants access only to specified users and can be used on a firewall or by AppLocker to control which applications and files can run.
A whitelist ensures that only approved applications can be installed or run.
Any application absent on an allow list or whitelist will be denied access.
A deny list or blocklist prevents access to specified users and can be used on a firewall to deny access.
Blacklist or Deny lists A blocklist prevents harmful applications from running; it requires you to specify which applications should be denied.
A blocklist also prevents unauthorized users from gaining access to your network.
Whitelist or Blacklist or Restricted Activities Restricted activities Restricted activities prevent actions that could potentially lead to vulnerabilities or disruptions.
These activities include unauthorized software installations, unauthorized system modifications, direct access to critical servers, and unauthorized access to sensitive data or data transfers.
Documentation Documentation plays a critical role in successful change management.
Comprehensive documentation of changes promotes transparency, accountability, and a clear understanding of the modifications being made.
Well documented changes facilitate tracking of modifications, making it easier to identify the individuals responsible for the changes and the reasons behind the modifications.
This, in turn, enhances security by minimizing the risk of unauthorized or unaccounted alterations.
Change Management Documentation Change management framework: Change request forms: This document outlines the overall approach your organization takes to change management.
These forms capture details about proposed changes, including the nature of the change, its rationale, potential impacts, and resource requirements.
Change approval process: This document outlines the steps involved in getting a change proposal approved, including who needs to review it and the criteria they will use.
Change Management Documentation Implementation plans: Change impact assessments: These plans detail the specific steps involved in implementing a change, including timelines, responsibilities, training needs, and communication strategies.
These assessments evaluate the potential impact of a change on different areas of the business, such as costs, resources, and employee morale.
Metrics and evaluation criteria: These documents define how the success of a change initiative will be measured, including factors such as user adoption rates and cost savings.
Version Controls Version control is a system that records changes to a file or set of files over time, enabling you to recall specific versions later.
It allows you to track modifications, pinpoint when and by whom changes were made, and, if necessary, revert to an earlier version.
Organizations that lack proper version control face challenges in tracking bug fixes and applying security patches.
Version Controls It also makes it difficult for consumers to correlate, triage, and patch security vulnerabilities.
Proper version control is a best practice to maintain a secure and efficient operational environment.
Introduction to Cryptography Scenario (Without Cryptography) Consider an example where Charles requests Alice to lend him some money.
He shares his bank account details with her through an insecure connection.
An attacker intercepts the connection, retrieves the data, and modifies the account details.
Problems Faced When Cryptography Was Not Used Confidentiality: The adversaries gain access to account details due to insufficient protection, thereby compromising privacy.
Integrity: The adversaries replace the details with an erroneous account number and uses it to their advantage.
Problems Authentication: When the data transmission channel is compromised, there is no way to confirm the identity of the sender and receiver, allowing adversaries to exploit this weakness.
Non repudiation: It prevents deniability of actions carried out.
However, in the current example, either the sender or recipient in the communication can deny sending or receiving the message.
What Is Cryptography?
Cryptography is the study of securing communication and data using algorithms to prevent exposure to unintended parties.
It is the science of transforming valuable information for secrecy.
Hi, welcome to XYZ post graduate program on cybersecurity Original text Cryptographic algorithm Kl, zhofrph wr Hgxuhnd'v srvw judgxdwh surjudp rq fbehuvhfxulwb Coded text Features of Cryptography Data confidentiality Confidentiality and privacy of data is maintained through encryption.
The encrypted data is practically useless to an adversary without the decryption key.
Authentication The authenticity of the message is verified through digital signatures, which confirm the sender's identity.
Data integrity The integrity of a message is preserved using hashing algorithms, where the same message always results in the same hash.
Non repudiation Non repudiation is ensured through digital signatures or digital certificates, preventing a user from denying sending the message.
Solution Strategy to Solve the Problem When your credentials and data are protected with cryptographic algorithms, even if a hacker breaches the security layer or hacks the server, the data remains unintelligible.
Adversary Basic Definitions Cryptography The science of secret writing that enables an entity to store and transmit data accessible only to the intended individuals Cryptosystem Hardware or software implementation of cryptography that contains all the necessary software, protocols, algorithms, and keys Cryptology The study of both cryptography and cryptanalysis Algorithm (Cipher) A set of mathematical and logical rules used in cryptographic functions Kerckhoffs's principle The concept that an algorithm should be known and only the keys should be kept secret Cryptography Around Us WhatsApp WhatsApp uses end to end encryption to transfer messages between two users.
End to end encryption ensures that the message encrypted at the senders end can only be decrypted at the receivers end.
How are you doing?
Sender Recipients public Key WhatsApp Server Recipients private Key How are you doing?
Receiver Third parties or even WhatsApp cannot read the users' messages due to endto end encryption.
E Banking Online transactions In 2002, financial institutions began using the AES algorithm for electronic transactions and creating security infrastructures to protect data stored in computer systems.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM) All ATMs have encryption pads that encrypt the PIN code and send it to the bank, ensuring authorization and security.
One time password 8754 0563 One time password (OTP) is generated to facilitate two level authentication.
The OTP is valid for only one transaction; the user sends it to the bank to authorize a transaction.
The OTP can only be decrypted by the banks terminal when the user enters the correct PIN.
HTTPS When you browse the internet while connected to a network, people connected to the same network can eavesdrop on your packets.
HTTPS indicates that your connection to the web browser is encrypted.
Lthps: efg@123.jvt whzzdvyk: whzz43 Client Svnpu Zbjjlzzmbs Server Packets are encrypted, and only the server has the decryption key to respond to your request.
HTTPS (Cont.)
Several cryptographic algorithms are incorporated into protocols when you try to establish a secure connection. To view these algorithms in your web browser, simply click the Lock icon on the address bar, then click Certificate, and finally click Details Gmail TLS is a standard cryptographic protocol that secures communication over the internet.
It ensures data authenticity and integrity by establishing a cipher suite for each communication session.
Cryptographic algorithms coupled with e mail protocols provide the following security services for electronic messaging applications: Authentication Message integrity Non repudiation of origin (SHA256) Data security (ECC256) A primary use case of TLS is encrypting communication between a web browser and a server.
Disk Encryption Disk encryption This technology provides data at rest encryption.
Symmetric encryption algorithms are used for encryption and decryption.
Full Disk Encryption (FDE) All contents of the disk are encrypted and converted into unreadable text with the help of symmetric ciphers (AES 256).
Popular FDE software BitLocker File Based Encryption (FBE) Each file (photos, notes, etc.)
is encrypted individually using separate keys.
Apple iOS uses FBE for data encryption on iPhones.
Popular FBE software eCryptfs Storing Passwords If passwords are stored in the form of plain text in a database, the admin or an attacker can access your password and use it for malicious intent.
For this reason, passwords are mapped to a fixed length value (hash) by a cryptographic relationship.
A system will take the password on login, convert it to a fixed value, and compare this value to existing ones in the database for successful authentication.
It is nearly impossible to decrypt this stored hash value to retrieve the original plaintext password.
Ab?nZ ces3@ d!
Password Cryptographic algorithm Fixed length value Cryptography Fundamentals Cryptography Methodology Secure channel Plaintext is converted to ciphertext using an encryption algorithm and a key.
Welcome to Introduction to Cryptography Sender sends the plaintext Ciphertext is converted to plaintext with the help of a decryption algorithm and key.
The key is shared with the intended recipient through a secure channel.
Welcome to Introduction to Cryptography Olssv Dvysk Encryption algorithm Encrypted message (ciphertext) Ciphertext is sent over the internet Decryption algorithm Recipient receives the decrypted text Conventional Encryption Conventional encryption is illustrated below: Encryption and Decryption Encryption is converting plaintext into cipher text with the help of key and algorithm.
Cipher text is something that is in an unreadable format.
Decryption is the process of converting ciphertext into plaintext using a key and algorithm.
Ciphertext is the encrypted form of data that needs to be converted back into readable plaintext.
Cryptographic Key A key is a piece of information that determines the functional output of a cryptographic algorithm.
Key clustering is when two different keys generate the same ciphertext from the same plaintext using the same algorithm.
Keyspace is a range of possible values used to construct keys.
Strength of Cryptosystem The strength of a cryptosystem refers to its ability to resist various attacks and keep the information it protects confidential, authentic, and tamper proof.
Key factors that determine the strength of a cryptosystem include: How all work together Strength of Cryptosystem depends on: Algorithm Secrecy of the key Initialization vectors Length of the key Strength of Cryptosystem Work factor is an estimate of the effort and resources it would take an attacker to penetrate a cryptosystem.
A good cryptosystem should be costefficient and less time consuming.
A brute force attack is used to break a cryptosystem.
Cryptosystem Elements Use an algorithm without known flaws Use a large key size Use all possible values within the key space as randomly as possible Protect the actual key Cryptosystem Services Cryptosystem services ensure: Confidentiality Integrity Authentication Non repudiation Renders the information unintelligible except by authorized entities Ensures the data has not been altered in an unauthorized manner since it was created, transmitted, or stored Verifies the identity of the user or the system that created the information Ensures that the sender cannot deny sending the message Cryptography Methods: Substitution Cipher It works by substituting one letter for another letter based on a key.
Example: Caesar cipher or ROT13, in which the alphabet is rotated by 13 steps The message HELLO becomes URYYB after the ROT13 substitution.
Substitution Cipher is generally used on blogs to filter certain words and in combination with other ciphers.
Cryptography Methods: Transposition Cipher Transposes the original text with long sequences of complex substitutions and permutations Uses a key to determine the positions the characters are moved to Is used in combination with substitution cipher in standard ciphers Cryptography Methods: Running Key Cipher It could use a key that does not require an electronic algorithm and bit alterations but cleverly uses components in the physical world around you.
For instance, the algorithm could be a set of books agreed upon by the sender and receiver.
The key in this type of cipher could be a book page, line number, or column count.
Cryptography Methods: Running Key Cipher For example, you get a message from your supersecret spy buddy, and the message reads CRYPTOGRAPHY 149l6c7.299l3c7.911l5c8.
This could mean for you to look at the 1st book in your predetermined series of books, the 49th page, the 6th line down the page, and the 7th column.
Cryptography Methods: Concealment or Null Cipher A concealment cipher is a message within a message.
If your super secret spy buddy and you decide the key value is every third word, then when you get a message from him, you will pick out every third word and write it down.
Example: Suppose he sends you a message that reads, The saying, The time is right is not cow language, so is now a dead subject Because your key is every third word, you produce The right cow is dead XOR Function XOR function returns a true value when only one of the input values is true.
A B XOR 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 If both values are false or both values are true, the output of the XOR function is false.
MOD Function The modulo function is quite simply the remainder value after a division operation is performed.
Number Divisor MOD Function 15 4 3 10 2 0 7 3 1 90 10 0 77 8 5 The modulo function is just as important to cryptography as logical operations.
Initialization Vector (IV) Random values are used with algorithms to ensure patterns are not created during the encryption process.
They are used with keys and need to be encrypted when being sent to the destination.
If IVs are not used, then two identical plaintext values encrypted with the same key will create the same ciphertext.
The IV and the key are both used by the algorithm to provide more randomness to the encryption process.
Steganography Steganography Steganography is the art of hiding the existence of a message.
It is used to insert digital watermarks on images to identify illegal copies.
It is used to send secret messages through emails.
It involves concealing the very existence of data by hiding it in other media such as picture, audio, and video files.
Types of Steganography Audio steganography Video steganography Image steganography Audio steganography involves hiding secret information within an audio signal without altering its quality.
Types of Steganography Audio steganography Video steganography Image steganography Video steganography hides files within a cover video file.
It's more secure than other methods due to video size and complexity.
Frames are used to store data using the Least Significant Bit (LSB) steganography method.
Types of Steganography Audio steganography Video steganography Image steganography Image steganography is the art of hiding a secret message within an image file.
Masking, Obfuscation, and Tokenization Data Masking or Obfuscation Data masking Data masking or obfuscation is the process of hiding, replacing, or omitting sensitive information from a specific data set.
Data masking is typically used to protect specific data sets such as PII or commercially sensitive data or to comply with certain regulations such as HIPAA or PCI DSS.
Data masking or obfuscation is also widely used for test platforms where suitable test data is unavailable.
Both techniques are typically applied when migrating tests or development environments to the cloud or when protecting production environments from threats such as data exposure by insiders or outsiders.
Data Masking Methods Data Masking Random substitution Algorithm substitution Shuffle Masking Deletion Data Masking Methods Random substitution The value is replaced (or appended) with a random value.
Algorithm substitution The idea of replacing (or appending) the value with an algorithm generated value is called algorithmic substitution.
Shuffle This shuffles different values from the data set.
It is usually from the same column.
Data Masking Methods Masking This uses specific characters to hide certain parts of the data.
It usually applies to credit card data formats: XXXX XXXX XX65 5432.
Deletion This simply uses a null value or deletes the data.
Types of Data Masking Static data masking Static data masking (SDM) permanently replaces sensitive data by altering data at rest within database copies.
Static Data Masking is designed to help organizations create a sanitized copy of their databases where all sensitive information has been altered in a way that makes the copy sharable with nonproduction users.
In static masking, a new copy of the data is created with the masked values.
Static masking is typically efficient when creating clean non production environments.
Types of Data Masking Dynamic data masking Dynamic data masking (DDM) aims to replace sensitive data in transit, leaving the original at rest data intact and unaltered.
Dynamic masking, sometimes referred to as on the fly masking, adds a layer of masking between the application and the database.
This type of masking is efficient when protecting production environments.
It can hide the full credit card number from customer service representatives, but the data remains available for processing.
Protecting Privacy: Pseudonymization Pseudonymization It refers to the process of using pseudonyms to represent other data.
This approach prevents direct identification of an entity, such as a person.
For instance, in a medical record held by a doctors office, instead of including personal information, the patient could be referred to as Patient 23456.
The doctors office would retain the personal information in a separate database linked to the patients pseudonym.
Name Token/Pseudonym Anonymized Clyde qOerd Xxxxx Marco Loqfh xxxxx Lex Mcv Xxxxx Les Mcv Xxxxx Marco Loqfh xxxxx Raul BhQl xxxxx Clyde qOerd xxxxx Protecting Privacy: Data Anonymization This includes information that relates specifically to an individual and can be used in isolation to uniquely identify that individual.
Direct identifier Indirect identifier Data anonymization Examples include social security number, full name, email address, telephone number, health insurance number, medical record number, full face photographs, or biometric records such as fingerprints.
This includes information that can be combined with other information to identify specific individuals.
For example, a combination of gender, date of birth, geographic indicators, and other descriptors can be used to identify specific individuals.
Anonymization removes indirect identifiers to prevent data analysis tools or other intelligent mechanisms from collating or pulling data from multiple sources to identify sensitive information.
Example : Anonymization Example Let's take an example of a person.
Direct Identifier: Adhaar card, Phone number, Credit card Indirect Identifier: Place of birth, Company name, Designation In today's world, even if you dont have information about direct identifiers but a bunch of indirect identifiers, you can find information about a person using modernized tools.
Protecting Privacy: Tokenization Token Database Tokenization It is the process of substituting a sensitive data element with a non sensitive equivalent known as a token.
3 Tokenization is a technology that: o o Tokenization Server Replaces the original data with nonsensitive placeholders Authorized Application 6 Is used to safeguard sensitive data in a secure, protected, and regulated environment 2 1 4 Application Server Database 5 Protecting Privacy: Tokenization When sensitive data is needed, an authorized application or 6 user can request it.
The application stores the token rather than the original data.
5 The tokenization server 4 returns the token to the application.
1 Key Features An application collects or generates a piece of sensitive data.
2 3 Data is sent to the tokenization server.
It is not stored locally.
The tokenization server generates the token.
The sensitive data and the token are stored in the token database.
Example : Tokenization Example Let's take the example of Netflix, which collects credit cards from customers.
Netflix uses tokenization to secure credit card information.
The credit card details are sent to a tokenization database and replaced with a token.
Netflix stores the token instead of the actual credit card information.
When needed, Netflix uses the token to retrieve the credit card information from the tokenization database.
Symmetric and Asymmetric Cryptography Encryption Methods Symmetric key algorithm Asymmetric key algorithm A symmetric key, also known as a secret key or private key, is a fundamental element in symmetric key cryptography.
Asymmetric key cryptography is also known as public key cryptography.
It serves two purposes: encryption (scrambling plain text) and decryption.
It uses two keys: private keys, which are private, and public keys, which can be shared.
Introduction to Symmetric Cryptography Performs both encryption and decryption of a message using only a single cryptographic key Requires each pair of communicating users to have a copy of the key Provides confidentiality because of the same key, but not authenticity or non repudiation Utilizes secret messages where confidentiality is the main criterion Applies to wired and wireless networks Plaintext Sender Ciphertext Encrypt Decrypt Same key is used to encrypt and decrypt messages Involves n(n1)/2 keys for secure communication Demands keys to be securely shared between communicating parties Includes examples such as Blowfish, AES, IDEA, RC4, RC5, RC6, DES, and 3DES Plaintext Shared secret key Recipient Symmetric Key Ciphers The two primary types of symmetric key ciphers are: Block cipher Stream cipher Plaintext Key Block cipher encryption Symmetric key ciphers $mail random key $mail random key Stream cipher Stream cipher Keystream Keystream (Pseudo random string) (Pseudo random string) Ciphertext Plaintext Ciphertext Plaintext Block Cipher Converts a fixed length block of plaintext data to a block of ciphertext data of the same length Plaintext Operates on preset blocks (64, 128, 192 bits, etc.)
Uses a combination of substitution and transposition Is more expensive and computationally more exhaustive, although stronger than streambased ciphers Is mainly implemented in software Is used in ciphers like DES and AES Key Block cipher encryption Ciphertext Stream Cipher A stream of ciphertext data is generated by combining the keystream (sequence of bits) with plaintext data bit by bit using XOR operations.
The keystream must have a non repeating pattern of bits to ensure security.
Stream ciphers are mainly implemented in hardware.
They are most commonly used in voice or video communications.
1 0 1 1 Keystream Plaintext 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 Ciphertext 0 Stream Cipher vs. Block Cipher Stream cipher Block cipher Faster than block cipher Operates on a larger block of data Processes the input element continuously producing output, one element at a time Slower than stream cipher Requires less code Requires more code With steam cipher, keys can be used only once Reuse of key is possible Application: SSL (Secure connection on the Web) Easier to implement in hardware Processes one block at a time, producing output for each input block Example: DES encryption Application: Database, file encryption Easier to implement in software Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a symmetric block cipher.
AES is the current U.S. standard.
For encryption, it uses: a 0,0 a 0,1 a 0,2 a 0,3 b 0,0 b 0,1 b 0,2 b 0,3 a 1,0 a 1,1 a 1,2 a 1,3 b 1,0 b 1,1 b 1,2 b 1,3 a 2,3 b 2,0 b 2,1 b2,2 b2,3 a 3,3 b 3,0 b 3,1 b o 128 bit keys (10 rounds of encryption) a 2,0 a 2,1 a2,2 o 192 bit keys (12 rounds of encryption) a 3,0 a 3,1 a 3,2 SubBytes o 256 bit keys (14 rounds of encryption) AES uses the Rijndael algorithm with variable block sizes (128, 192, and 256 bit) and key lengths (128, 192, and 256 bit).
S 3,2 b 3,3 Other Symmetric Systems Stands for International Data Encryption Algorithm IDEA Uses 64 bit blocks, a 128 bit key, and 8 rounds of computations Used in e mail encryption software, pretty good privacy (PGP) Uses a 64 bit block size Blowfish o 32 448 bits (in steps of 8 bits) key size and 16 rounds of computation Optimized for 32 bit microprocessors Twofish Is a modification of Blowfish using 128 bit blocks Uses variable key lengths up to 256 bits Other Symmetric Systems RC5 Uses block sizes of 32, 64, or 128 bits, with a key length of up to 2040 bits Created as a candidate algorithm for AES RC6 Uses key sizes of 128, 192, and 256 bits and has a block size of 128 bits Based on RC5, and is also a candidate for AES Symmetric Keys: Round Up Algorithm Block Size Key Length Comments DES 64 bit 56 bit + 8 bit parity 16 rounds of processing Compromised by meet inthe middle attack 2DES 64 bit 112 bit 3DES 64 bit 168 bit Rijndael 128,192,256 bits 128,192,256 bits IDEA 64 bit 128 bit CAST 64 bit 40 to 128 bits SAFER 64 to 128 bit 64 to 128 bit Blowfish 64 bit Variable key size Twofish 128 bit 128, 192, 256 bits RC5 16,32,64 bits 0 to 2040 bits AES 128 bit 128, 192, 256 bits Performs variable rounds of operation 8 rounds transposition and substitution Used in PGP A version used in Bluetooth Business Scenario Hilda Jacobs, the general manager of IT Security, assigned Kevin Butler the task of selecting a good encryption system to secure the confidentiality of the companys data.
She requested a symmetric block cipher system capable of encrypting with a 128 bit encryption key.
Kevin started gathering information about the existing encryption standards.
Based on the current and future requirements, he had to choose between DES, 3DES, and AES.
Question: Which encryption standard should Kevin select: the DES, 3DES, or AES?
Business Scenario Hilda Jacobs, the general manager of IT Security, assigned Kevin Butler the task of selecting a good encryption system to secure the confidentiality of the companys data.
She requested a symmetric block cipher system capable of encrypting with a 128 bit encryption key.
Kevin started gathering information about the existing encryption standards.
Based on the current and the future requirements, he had to choose between DES, 3DES, and AES.
Question: Which encryption standard should Kevin select: the DES, 3DES, or AES?
Answer: With the given requirement, AES is the best choice as it supports a 128 bit key.
Introduction to Asymmetric Cryptography In asymmetric cryptography, two keys are used that are mathematically linked but mutually exclusive.
One key is for encryption, and the other is for decryption.
The private key can be used by an individual or entity, while the public key can be freely shared with anyone you want to communicate.
Introduction to Asymmetric Cryptography Asymmetric cryptography is also called public key encryption, as one key is made public.
A pair of keys is required for encryption or decryption.
The keys are mathematically related.
Each key is used to encrypt or decrypt.
You cannot encrypt or decrypt with only one key.
The public key is usually shared, while the private key is secured by the owner.
Secure Message format: The message is encrypted with the receiver's public key (confidentiality).
Open Message format: The message is encrypted with the senders private key (authenticity).
o These formats ensure authenticity, confidentiality, and non repudiation.
o Examples: RSA (Rivest Shamir Adleman), Diffie Hellman, Elliptic curve cryptosystem (ECC), El Gamal, and Digital signature algorithm (DSA) Introduction to Asymmetric CryptographyDiagram Goal of Asymmetric Cryptography Confidentiality Authentication Assures the ability to Assures the ability to send authenticate the identity of communicating entities data in a secure or confidential manner Non repudiation Assures the ability to not allow or deny sending the data Asymmetric Cryptography Pros and Cons Pros Cons Scalable Slower than symmetric key Provides confidentiality, authentication, and non repudiation Mathematically complex and intensive Better key distribution mechanism Secure Message Format Charles wants to send data to Alice that should only be read by her.
Charles Alice Secure Message Format Charles generates a private and public key pair and exchanges his public key with Alice's public key.
Charles Alice Public Key Charles Public Key Charles Private Key Alice Private Key Similarly, Alice will also generate a private and public key pair and exchange her public key with Charles's public key.
Alice Secure Message Format After the exchange, Charles has his private key along with Alice's public key. May the force with you Charles Similarly, Alice has her private key along with Charles's public key.
Avce1ksldldn asd#$sdvdee To ensure confidentiality, Charles will encrypt the data using Alice's public key.
Avce1ksldldn asd#$sdvdee May the force with you Alice will decrypt the data using her private key, which ensures confidentiality.
Alice Secure Message Format Summarized View Step 1 User A and User B want to communicate using asymmetric cryptography.
Step 2 User A will generate a private key and a public key on their system.
Step 3 User B will generate a private key and a public key on their system.
Step 6 User B will use their private key to decrypt the data, ensuring confidentiality.
Step 5 User A will encrypt the data using User B's public key and send it to User B.
Step 4 User A and User B exchange each other's public keys.
Open Message Format Charles wants to send data to Alice, ensuring she can authenticate him as the sender and cannot deny receiving the message.
Charles Alice Open Message Format Charles generates private and public keys and exchanges his public key with Alice's public key.
Similarly, Alice will also generate private and public keys and exchange her public key with Charles' public key.
Alice public key Charles Charles private key Charles public key Alice private key Alice Open Message Format After the exchange, Charles has his private key along with Alice's public key.
May the force with you Similarly, Alice has her private key along with Charles's public key.
Avce1ksldldn asd#$sdvdee Avce1ksldldn asd#$sdvdee May the force with you Charles Alice To assure authentication and non repudiation, Charles will encrypt the data using Alices public key.
Alice will decrypt using Charles's public key, ensuring authentication and non repudiation.
Open Message Format Summarized View Step 1 User A and User B want to communicate using asymmetric cryptography.
Step 2 User A will generate a private key and a public key on their system.
Step 3 User B will generate a private key and a public key on their system.
Step 6 User B will use the public key of User A to decrypt data, ensuring authentication and nonrepudiation.
Step 5 User A will encrypt data using the private key of User A and send it to User B.
Step 4 User A and User B exchange each other's public keys.
Introduction to RSA Algorithm RSA stands for Ron Rivest, Adi Shamir, and Leonard Adleman, the inventors of this algorithm.
RSA: Is a worldwide de facto standard Is based on the difficulty of factoring the product of two large prime numbers (up to 200 digits long), thereby making the cryptosystem difficult to crack Provides digital signatures, encryption, and secret key distribution Is used in web browsers with SSL, systems that use public key cryptosystems Other Types of Asymmetric Cryptography: Elliptic Curve Cryptosystems Instead of generating keys as the product of very large prime numbers, ECC generates keys through the properties of the elliptic curve equation.
An ECC key of 160 bits provides the same protection as a 1024 bit RSA key.
ECC is more efficient than RSA.
It provides encryption, digital signature, and key exchange.
It is used in devices with limited processing, storage, and bandwidth capacity.
Examples: Wireless and cell phone Advantages and Disadvantages Types of cryptography Symmetric cryptography Advantages Very fast to encrypt or decrypt, secure, and affordable Optimal for encrypting large files Provides better key distribution than symmetric systems Provides better scalability due to ease of key distribution Provides authenticity and nonrepudiation, in addition to confidentiality Disadvantages Presents the challenge of key management Lacks authenticity and nonrepudiation Asymmetric cryptography Much slower operation than symmetric systems More vulnerable to man in themiddle attacks Other Types of Asymmetric Cryptography: Diffie Hellman Key Exchange A key distribution asymmetric algorithm o A protocol whereby two or more parties can agree on a key in such a way that both influence the outcome Allows two users to exchange a secret key Requires no prior secrets Does not provide for encryption or digital signature functions Other Types of Asymmetric Cryptography: Diffie Hellman Key Exchange Vulnerable to man in the middle attack Based on the difficulty of calculating discrete logarithms in a finite field Currently used in many protocols, namely: o Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) o Secure Shell (SSH) o Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) o Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Hybrid Cryptography A hybrid system that combines the symmetric and asymmetric methods The more efficient symmetric algorithm encrypts a message using a secret key The symmetric secret key is encrypted using recipients public key with an asymmetric algorithm The message encrypted with that secret key and the encrypted symmetric secret key are sent to the recipient Hybrid Cryptography The recipient uses their private key to decrypt the secret key.
The secret key is then used to decrypt the message.
A symmetric algorithm is used for bulk encryption.
The asymmetric algorithm is used to distribute the symmetric key.
Hybrid Cryptography Charles wants to send bulk data to Alice and ensure that only she can read it.
Charles Alice Hybrid Key Cryptography Charles generates a private and public key pair and exchanges his public key with Alice's public key.
Charles Alice public key Charles public key Charles private key Alice private key Similarly, Alice will also generate a private and public key pair and exchange her public key with Charles's public key.
Alice Communication Process at Senders End Symmetric key I Pass CISSP Charles Charles generates a symmetric key and uses it to encrypt bulk data.
The symmetric key is then encrypted with Alice's public key.
Encrypted symmetric key Alice public key a3421hjkgds Encrypted data a3421hjkgds Symmetric key The encrypted symmetric key and encrypted data are being sent to Alice.
Alice Communication Process at Receivers End Encrypted symmetric key Alice private key Symmetric key a3421hjkgds Alice Alice received encrypted data and an encrypted symmetric key.
Original message a3421hjkgds Alice will decrypt the encrypted symmetric key with her private key.
Alice then uses the symmetric key received from Charles to decrypt encrypted data.
I Pass CISSP Hybrid Cryptography Digital Envelope Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 A generates symmetric key, and it encrypts bulk data using a symmetric key User A wants to send a symmetric key and encrypted data securely to User B User A will encrypt the symmetric key with public key of receiver Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 User A will generate a private key and a public key on their system User B will generate a private key and a public key on their system User A and User B exchange each others public key Step 7 User A encrypts the symmetric key with public key of B and sends the encrypted key and data to User B Step 8 User B decrypts the symmetric key using its own private key Step 9 User B will decrypt bulk data using a symmetric key SSL or TLS Step 1 The client browser requests a TLS or SSL session from the server.
Step 2 The TLS certificate and the server's public key are sent to the client.
Step 3 The client generates a session key, encrypts this session key with the servers public key, and sends it to the server. Step 4 The server, on receiving the encrypted session key, performs the decryption process with its private key.
Step 5 The client now sends the data encrypted with the session key, and the server already has a session key that it uses to decrypt the actual data. Session Key A single use symmetric key is used to encrypt or decrypt communication between two users for a single session.
Its more secure than static symmetric keys.
Peers decide on the session key and continue to use it until the session is over.
Eavesdropping is difficult here, and attempting to break the keys is futile.
Hashing Process One Way Hash A hash function uses an algorithm without any key for encryption.
This encryption cannot be reversed and hence is called one way.
A fixed length hash value (message digest or hash) is created or hashed from variable length plaintext.
When the plaintext changes, its hash value also changes.
Thus, hash functions are used to provide integrity.
It guarantees the integrity of data.
It can be applied to data blocks of any size.
It produces a fixed length output.
Hashing of data Variable length original data Fixed length digest data One Way Hash Characteristics: The Hash should be computed over the entire message.
The Hash should be a one way function.
Given a message and hash value, computing another message with the same value should be impossible.
It should be resistant to birthday attacks.
Hashing Process Charles wants to send an email to Alice and ensure that it is not tampered with during transit.
Charles Alice Hashing Communication Process at Senders End a3421hjkgds a3421hjkgds Charles Charles inputs an email into the hashing algorithm.
A fixedlength digest is created as an output.
A fixed length digest is appended to the email and sent to the receiver.
Alice Hashing Communication Process at Receivers End a3421hjkgds a3421hjkgds a3421hjkgds a3421hjkgds Alice Alice, on receiving the email appended with hash, will separate email and hash digest.
Alice will input the email received from Charles into the hashing algorithm, and a fixed length digest will be created again.
Fixed length digest created at the receiver end and that is received from the sender will be compared.
If they are the same, no tampering happens in transit.
Hashing Process Summarized Integrity Step 1 User A wants to send an email to User B and ensure that the email is not tampered with in transit.
Step 6 User B removes the digest and feeds the email back into the hashing algorithm.
Step 2 User A feeds the email into an MD5 or SHA hashing algorithm.
Step 5 User B receives an email along with the digest.
Step 3 A hashing algorithm processes an email and produces a fixed length digest as output (MD5 128 B, SHA 160).
Step 4 User A appends this digest to the email and sends it to User B.
Step 7 The email received from User A will be fed into a hashing algorithm at the receiving end, which will produce a message digest as output.
Step 8 Both message digests will be compared; if they are the same, then the data has not been tampered with.
Hashing Algorithms A hash function is any algorithm or subroutine that maps large data sets of variable length to smaller data sets of a fixed length.
MD5: The most widely used hash algorithm in the MD (MessageDigest Algorithm) family.
It is harder to break; for any input length, it creates a 128 bit hash value.
Belongs to the Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA) family SHA 1: Generates a 160 bit hash value SHA 2 includes SHA 224, SHA 256, SHA 384, and SHA 512, termed after the length of the hash value each creates Application of Hashing Password verification Signature verification Data integrity checks Storing passwords in normal text files is dangerous, which is why almost all sites store passwords as hashes.
Generating and verifying signatures is a mathematical process used to verify the authenticity of digital documents or messages.
Data integrity checks are a crucial application of hashing.
They involve generating checksums for data files, which provide users with assurance about the correctness of the data.
Digital Signatures Are used for signing the document cryptographically To digitally sign the data: o Create a hash of the data o Encrypt that hash with the sender's private key Digital signatures: To verify the digital signature: o Hash the data o Find the senders public key o Decrypt the signature with the sender's public key o Check whether the hash you have created matches the hash you received Hashing provides message integrity; signing of hash provides authentication and non repudiation Involve encrypting the hash value of a message with a private key Digital Signatures The working of digital signatures is illustrated below: Goal of Digital Signature Integrity Authentication Ensures the ability to Ensures that the data is not authenticate the identity of communicating entities.
tampered with or unauthorized.
Non repudiation Ensures the ability to prevent unauthorized denial of sending the data.
Digital Signature Process Digital Signature Charles wants to send an email to Alice and wants that email not to be tampered with in transit.
Charles Alice wants to ensure not only integrity but also authentication and nonrepudiation.
Alice Digital Signature Charles generates a private and public key pair, then exchanges his public key with Alice's public key.
Alice public key Charles private key Charles Charles public key Similarly, Alice will generate her own private and public key pair and exchange her public key with Charles's public key.
Alice private key Alice Digital Signature Communication at Senders End Alice Digital signature Charles a3421hjkgds fghje3476q wr fghje3476qwr Charles inputs an email into a hashing algorithm.
A fixed length digest is created as the output.
The message digest is encrypted using the private key of the sender, Charles, in this communication.
The encrypted message digest is called a digital signature.
This digital signature will be appended to the email and sent to the receiver.
Digital Signature Communication at Receivers End a3421hjk fghje3476 a3421hjk a3421hjk a3421hjk fghje3476qwr Alice, upon receiving the email appended with the digital signature, will separate the digital signature from the email.
The digital signature will be decrypted with the sender's public key.
Correct decryption ensures authentication and non repudiation.
After decrypting with the sender's public key, the hash digest received from the sender will be visible.
Now, the email will be fed into a hashing algorithm to generate a hash digest.
Both hash digests will be compared.
If they are the same, it means the email has not been tampered with, ensuring integrity.
Application of Digital Signatures Communication security You can encrypt the mail with the recipients public key and sign it on your side.
This way the sender knows for sure that there was no tampering and that the message comes from you.
Code security Authors or coders can protect their code against tampering by digitally signing it.
Software updates Financial sectors Vendors digitally sign the updates to protect against tampering and ensure that it is released by them by digitally signing and providing users with their public key to verify their digital signature.
It is used by a company to protect against tampering with financial documents and ensuring that it has been issued by them.
For e.g., when a company issues Form 16, it is digitally signed to protect against tampering and prove authenticity.
Advantages of Digital Signature Highly robust: Better speed: DSA is highly robust in the security and stability aspect compared to alternative signature verification algorithms.
The key generation is much faster compared to the RSA algorithm and such.
Less storage: Patent free: DSA requires less storage space to work its entire cycle.
When NIST releases it, it is patent free to enable its global use free of cost.
Birthday Attack If an algorithm produces the same value for two distinctly different messages, it is called a hash collision.
The birthday attack attempts to exploit the probability of two messages producing the same message digest by using the same hash function.
Birthday attack It is based on the statistical probability that with 23 people in a room, there is more than a 50% probability that two people have the same birthday.
SHA 1 (160 bits) may require approximately 280 computations to find a hash collision.
A hashing algorithm that has a larger bit output, such as a birthday attack, is less vulnerable to brute force attacks.
Salting Salt is a random value added to password hash to prevent dictionary attacks and hash collisions.
Salting It makes it difficult for the attacker to break into a system by using the strategy of password hash matching.
For each password, a new salt is randomly generated.
Instead of the original password, the output of the cryptographic hash function processed is stored in the database.
It is used in Unix systems and for internet security.
Password Creation Plaintext password Random salt Hashing Salt Hash Public Key Infrastructure Introduction to Public Key Infrastructure Registration Authority(s) Users A public key infrastructure (PKI) is a set of hardware, software, people, policies, and procedures needed to create, manage, distribute, use, store, and revoke digital certificates.
Certificate Authority(s) Components of PKI Keys Certificates Introduction to Public Key Infrastructure The public key infrastructure provides confidentiality, integrity, authentication, and non repudiation.
PKI includes: o Certificate Authority (CA) o Digital certificates o Registration Authorities (RA) o Policies and procedures o Certificate revocation o Time stamping o Nonrepudiation support o Security enabled applications Introduction to Public Key Infrastructure A digital certificate is required by each participant in a PKI, which contains a particular participants public key and other identifying information.
This is signed by a trusted CA, and the authenticity of the public key is the liability of the CA.
PKI is used in online banking and e commerce.
Certificate Authority CA is a trusted third party responsible for the issuance and maintenance of digital certificates.
It can also be internal to an organization.
CA also handles the revocation of certificates.
The revoked certificates are stored in the Certificate Revocation List (CRL), which is updated and maintained by the CA.
Registration Authority The RA performs the registration duties.
It establishes and confirms the identity of the individual, initiates the registration process with CA, and performs certificate lifecycle management.
The RA verifies all the necessary information before allowing a request to go to CA.
The RA cannot issue certificates.
PKI Certificate A digital certificate, also known as a public key infrastructure certificate, is used to cryptographically link the ownership of a public key with the entity that owns it.
Source: https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/encryption and https://searchsecurity.techtarget.com/definition/digital signature Digital certificates are used for sharing public keys for encryption and authentication.
PKI Certificate Digital certificates include: The public key being certified Identifying information about the entity that owns the public key Metadata relating to the digital certificate A digital signature of the public key created by the issuer of the certificate X.509 is the standard that dictates the fields used in the certificate and the valid values that can be populated in those fields.
Source: https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/encryption and https://searchsecurity.techtarget.com/definition/digital signature Root of Trust The root certificate is a self signed certificate that serves as the foundation for the entire certificate chain.
The root key is utilized to generate the root certificate.
When a device encounters a digital certificate, it can verify its authenticity by checking the certificate's chain of trust.
The communication is secure and genuine if the certificate can be traced back to a trusted root certificate.
In certificate management, the root CA is the highest authority in the certificate chain and is trusted to validate and sign certificates.
Trust is extended downstream to all issued certificates, establishing the certificate hierarchy.
Self Signed Certificate A self signed certificate is created and signed by the same entity to which it is issued.
Unlike certificates issued by trusted third party CAs, self signed certificates are not verified by an external authority.
This means the entity creating the certificate asserts its identity without external validation.
These certificates can be installed on multiple internal servers.
Third Party Certificates A third party CA is responsible for verifying entities' identities and issuing digital certificates, which serve as digital ID cards to prove an entitys authenticity on the Internet.
For online trading, the website needs globally recognized third party certificates.
Examples of third party certificate authorities: DigiCert, GlobalSign, GeoTrust, and Thawte.
Certificate Signing Request (CSR) A CSR is a digital identity certificate application.
It is what an entity sends to a CA to secure its online communications.
The CSR includes the public key and identifying information.
The CA then verifies the credentials and issues a trusted certificate, confirming the entity's authenticity.
Wildcard Certificate It is an SSL/TLS certificate that secures an entire domain and its subdomains with a single certificate.
It employs a wildcard character, typically an asterisk (*), to represent any subdomain within the main domain.
A single wildcard certificate, *.example.com, can secure all current and future subdomains, such as mail.example.com and shop.example.com.
* Enrollment Process When a user wants to obtain a digital certificate, the user must first prove their identity to the CA in some manner.
This process is called enrollment.
Enrollment Process Steps of enrollment process: Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 The user needs to prove their identity to obtain a digital certificate.
After the CA completes the verification process, the user seeking the certificate needs to provide their public key.
The CA creates an X.509 digital certificate containing the users identification information and public key.
The CA digitally signs the certificate and provides the user with a copy of the signed digital certificate.
Verification Process When a user receives a digital certificate from a person with whom they wish to communicate, they must verify if: The digital signature of the CA is authentic The CA is trusted by the user The certificate contains the trusted data The certificate is not listed on a certificate revocation list (CRL) Revocation Process Occasionally, a certificate authority needs to revoke a certificate.
This might occur because: The certificate was compromised The certificate was erroneously issued The details of the certificate changed The security association changed Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) Certificate Revocation Lists CRLs are published lists of certificates revoked by their issuing CA before their expiration date.
They contain the serial numbers of certificates issued by a CA that have been revoked, along with the date and time the revocation took effect.
Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) Certificate Revocation Lists It carries out real time validation of certificates and reports it back to the user.
It checks the CRL that is maintained by the CA.
PKI Process Step 1 Step 6 Step 7 User A and User B want to participate in the PKI process.
The CA will digitally sign the certificate and send it to User A.
User A will present the certificate to User B in order to establish communication.
Step 2 Step 5 Step 8 User A will generate a public key and a private key on the users system.
The CA will generate a digital certificate of the X.509 standard, embedding the user's public key.
User B will take the certificate and verify the digital signature of the CA.
Step 3 Step 4 Step 9 User A will send the public key and identification information to the RA or CA.
The RA or CA will verify the information provided by User A.
After verification, User B can trust the public key of User A and can securely communicate with User A.
Key Management Key Management This is the most challenging part of cryptography and can be handled manually or automatically.
Key management includes: o Generating, destroying, and recovering keys o Protecting keys against capturing, modification, corruption, or disclosure to unauthorized individuals o Regularly updating keys and distributing the right entities o Taking backup copies and adopting multi party key recovery.
Key distribution protocols (asymmetric) include: o RSA o Diffie Hellman The Kerberos Key Distribution Center (KDC) is an example of automated key management.
Key Management Principles and Lifecycle Creation The keys should be: o Stored and transmitted by secure means o Random o o Properly destroyed at the end of their lifetime Long enough to provide the necessary level of protection The keys lifetime should correspond with the sensitivity of the data it is protecting.
Destruction Archival Backup The key management lifecycle Expiration Deployment Monitoring Rotation Key Stretching Key stretching, also known as key strengthening, is a cryptography technique that makes weak keys, particularly passwords, more secure.
This involves running the weak key through a special function multiple times, transforming it into a longer and more complex key.
This makes it significantly harder for attackers to crack using brute force methods.
Key stretching is like stretching taffy: you start with a small piece (a weak key) and pull it repeatedly (apply the function), making it longer and harder to break (resulting in a stronger key).
Adding random data to a password before inputting it into the key stretching function is called salting.
Benefits of Key Stretching Slows down attackers using brute force methods Makes weak passwords more secure Increases the time and resources needed to crack a password M of N Control It is a tool that helps recreate private and public key material from a backup.
The key material is backed up and mathematically distributed across several systems or devices.
Implementing three out of eight controls would require three people out of the eight assigned as key escrow recovery agents to work together to retrieve a single key from the key escrow database.
o This illustrates that M is always less than or equal to N. M of N Control M of N control requires a minimum number of agents (M) out of the total number of agents (N) to work together to perform high security tasks.
This is a backup process for public and private key material across multiple systems or devices.
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) TPM is a hardware chip on the computers motherboard that stores cryptographic keys used for encryption.
Once enabled, TPM provides full disk encryption capabilities, keeping hard drives locked or sealed until the system completes a verification or authentication process.
The TPM includes a unique RSA key burned into it, which is used for asymmetric encryption.
Additionally, it can generate, store, and protect other keys used in the encryption and decryption process.
TPM Hardware Security Model (HSM) An HSM is a security device added to a system to manage, generate, and securely store cryptographic keys.
High performance HSMs are external devices connected to a network using TCP/IP.
Smaller HSMs come as expansion cards installed within a server or as devices plugged into computer ports.
HSM HSM vs. TPM Sl.
No 1 2 3 Parameter HSM TPM Focuses on securely storing and managing cryptographic keys Focuses on protecting the overall security and integrity of a computing platform Hardware vs. Software Is a dedicated hardware device built with tamper resistant features, ensuring the physical security of keys Is an integrated chip on a computer motherboard, offering hardwarebased security but less physical isolation Key management Offers advanced key management features like secure key generation, secure storage, and access control mechanisms Stores limited keys and performs key operations but primarily relies on software for key management Focus HSM vs. TPM Sl.
No 4 5 6 Parameter HSM TPM Offers higher performance for cryptographic operations due to dedicated hardware Performance varies depending on the platform and TPM version but may not be as high as dedicated HSMs Cost More expensive due to the dedicated hardware and advanced features Is included in modern computers at little or no additional cost Usage Environments requiring high security, Enhancing platform security for such as banking, healthcare, and personal computers and servers government Enabling features like secure Protection for sensitive data, such as boot, disk encryption, and multipayment card information, medical factor authentication records, and classified information Meeting regulatory compliance Operations involving large scale requirements related to data cryptography and demanding high security performance Performance Secure Enclave This is a dedicated hardware component built into modern processors in many smartphones, tablets, and computers.
It acts like a mini fortress within the central processor, designed to protect the most sensitive data and cryptographic operations.
This microprocessor has its own boot process and runs a separate operating system from the primary device, effectively segregating it.
It resists tampering and prevents its data from being accessed through any means other than strict protocol.
Its unique hardware and firmware are inextricably tied together, ensuring that a breach in one does not lead to a vulnerability in the other.
Functioning of Secure Enclave Physical isolation It is physically separated from the main processor, creating a secure environment for sensitive tasks.
o This isolation makes it much harder for attackers to access or tamper with the data stored or processed within the enclave.
Protected memory It has its own dedicated memory space, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information from the main system memory where malware or other threats might reside.
Secure execution environment The secure enclave operates with its own operating system or firmware for security, restricting code execution to authorized processes and minimizing vulnerability risks.
What Does Secure Enclave Protect?
Encryption keys: The secure enclave is a prime spot to store and use encryption keys.
Biometric data: Biometric information for authentication is often stored and processed within a secure enclave.
Secure boot: The secure enclave ensures that only authorized software loads during startup and prevents unauthorized access.
Blockchain and Open Ledger Blockchain Blockchain technology offers a secure, decentralized method for recording transactions on a digital ledger distributed across multiple computers.
Blockchain operates as a decentralized database to enhance security and minimize failures.
Each block links securely to its predecessor, validated and approved by network consensus, while unique cryptographic keys protect each entry, ensuring data integrity and immutability on the network.
Blockchain Components Blocks: Each block stores critical information, such as transaction details.
Chain: Blocks are linked chronologically to form a chain.
Security: Cryptography secures the blocks, making it extremely difficult to tamper with the information.
Key features Decentralized: No single individual or group controls the information; every user has access to their own copy.
Immutable: Once information is added, it cannot be changed.
Transparent: All information on the blockchain is accessible to any viewer.
Applications of Blockchain Payment processing and money transfer Healthcare Monitoring of supply chains Manages clinical trial data and electronic records while ensuring regulatory compliance Improves supply chain efficiency by tracking goods and identifying real time inefficiencies Digital ID IOT network management Data sharing Enhances security and privacy in identity management, ensuring user control over data access Regulates IoT networks, identifies connected devices, and monitors their activities Secures and facilitates the movement of data across industries Enables fast transactions and reduces banking fees Blockchains Concerns Malware and phishing attacks Privacy concerns Centralization Public blockchains risk exposing transaction details and account balances Despite its decentralized ideal, blockchain often ends up being controlled by a small number of entities Governance Quantum computing Scalability Unclear governance can complicate decision making and maintenance of the network Blockchain encryption may be vulnerable to future quantum computing technologies As more users join, the blockchain can suffer from slow transaction times and network congestion Loss of private keys through attacks can block access to blockchain assets Open Ledger An open ledger in blockchain functions as a public notebook, making it possible for everyone to view crucial transactions such as money transfers and contracts.
The open public ledger is fundamental to the blockchain, recording every transaction and allowing real time access and verification by all network participants.
The openness of the blockchain ledger not only fosters transparency but also enhances security and trust among users by allowing real time verification and auditing of transactions.
Benefits of Open Ledger Decentralization Security Transaction processing The ledger is decentralized, with copies distributed across multiple network nodes, enhancing reliability and accessibility Due to its decentralized and cryptographic structure, tampering with the ledger is significantly challenging Transactions are broadcasted to the network, verified by participants, and recorded following predefined blockchain rules Consensus mechanisms Immutable and chronological Transparency Consensus mechanisms like Proof of Work or Proof of Stake ensure the ledger's accuracy and integrity Transactions, once validated and recorded, are permanently embedded in the ledger in chronological order The ledger's openness permits anyone to verify transactions independently, promoting trust and accountability Key Takeaways Information security is crucial within an organization for protecting data and ensuring business continuity.
Deploying various security controls based on organizational risk helps tailor defenses to specific threats.
Gap analysis plays a significant role in achieving business goals by identifying and addressing security weaknesses.
Change management is essential for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational information, ensuring robust security practices.
The concept of zero trust is important in today's security landscape, forming the foundation for modern cybersecurity strategies.
CompTIA Sec + Domain 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Compare and contrast various threat actors and their motivations to better anticipate and counter security breaches Understand common threat vectors and attack surfaces to enhance defensive strategies Identify different types of vulnerabilities to recognize potential security weaknesses Analyze indicators of malicious activity in different scenarios to aid a swift response Describe the purpose and effectiveness of mitigation techniques in securing enterprise operations Threat Actors Asset An asset is any resource that adds value to an organization.
It can be tangible or intangible.
Tangible: Such as hardware and software Intangible: Include data, information, people, and reputation Recognizing the range of organizational assets is vital in identifying potential vulnerabilities and safeguarding against threat actors.
Vulnerability Vulnerability refers to a condition in a system that, whether intentionally or accidentally, causes a security flaw.
This compromises the system's security.
Examples: Unpatched software, buffer overflow, lack of awareness training Effective management of vulnerabilities is crucial for enhancing system security and preventing breaches.
Threat A threat is anything with the potential to cause harm to a system or data.
The following are the different types of threats: Intentional threats: These are deliberate, malicious attempts to harm a system or steal data.
2 Unintentional threats: These are accidental events that can cause damage, even when not intended to be malicious.
1 3 Natural threats: Floods, earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters can damage computer hardware and destroy data.
Threat Agents A threat agent, also known as a threat actor, is an individual, group, or organization that can initiate an attack on a system or data.
Examples: Hackers and cybercriminals Understanding the nature of threat agents is essential for developing effective security strategies and countermeasures.
Example of Threat to Asset Asset Vulnerability Threat Organization's server Inadequate firewall rules Cyber attack Threat agent Exposure Risk Countermeasure Unencrypted data (25%) Loss of critical data Reconfigure or replace the firewall Risk Risk is defined by the International Systems Audit and Control Association as the combination of the probability of an event and its consequences.
Effectively managing risk is crucial for minimizing potential negative outcomes and ensuring organizational resilience.
Key Terms Associated With Risk Impact The extent of damage that results from a threat exploiting a vulnerability Likelihood The probability that a threat will exploit a particular vulnerability Examples of Risks This table outlines key security risk factors from threat agents to resulting scenarios.
Threat Agent Threat Vulnerability Risk Scenarios Fire Destruction of operating facility Faulty fire detection or suppression equipment Loss of life and property Clueless user Sharing of sensitive data using social engineering Lack of security awareness training Financial and reputation loss Malicious insider Data theft Lack of adequate access controls on data Legal risk and financial loss Hacker Unauthorized hacking Unpatched server Server unavailability and financial loss Hackers A hacker is someone who gains unauthorized access to computer systems.
Originally, the term hacker neutrally described a person skilled in programming and system management.
The three major types of hackers are: White Hat Black Hat Gray Hat Script Kiddies Script kiddies represent a unique cybersecurity threat, characterized by their lack of advanced skills and reliance on pre made hacking tools.
Skill level Threat potential Common activities Motivation Lacking the expertise of skilled professional attackers, script kiddies often utilize attack tools crafted by other malicious programmers.
Despite their low skill level, they pose a real threat due to the sheer volume of individuals and the accessibility of powerful hacking tools.
Commonly, they exploit known vulnerabilities in IT systems, focusing on easy targets that can be breached using readily available tools.
Their primary aim is often to showcase their skills or gain peer recognition rather than cause serious harm.
Hacktivists Hacktivists are individuals or groups who leverage their hacking skills for ideological, political, or social objectives.
Hacktivists use their extensive hacking skills to support causes and enact change.
They may release sensitive information, launch DoS attacks, or deface websites.
Their typical targets include the political, media, and financial sectors.
Groups like Anonymous, WikiLeaks, and LulzSec use cyber tactics for political goals.
Organized Crime Organized crime has effectively extended its operations into the digital realm, seeking profit through cyber activities.
These groups have recognized the lucrative opportunities in digital spaces.
They mimic legitimate enterprises but engage in illegal cyber activities.
Key activities include ransomware attacks, credit card fraud, and identity theft.
Shadow IT Shadow IT refers to the use of unauthorized technology within an organization without the IT department's approval.
Shadow IT includes software, applications, or devices used without formal oversight.
Shadow IT Employees often adopt these solutions to improve productivity or streamline work processes.
The use of shadow IT is typically not malicious but driven by the need for more efficient tools.
Nation State Threat Actors Nation state threat actors are among the most formidable adversaries in cybersecurity.
They are government sponsored entities conducting cyber operations to advance national interests.
With substantial resources and advanced technical capabilities, these actors can execute sophisticated attacks, including espionage, data theft, and sabotage.
Advance Persistent Threats An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a sophisticated cyberattack executed by well funded and highly skilled entities, including nation state actors and organized cybercriminal groups.
APTs excel in infiltrating specific systems or networks, maintaining stealth over prolonged periods.
These threats systematically extract valuable data or incrementally cause damage, thereby avoiding detection.
Criminal Syndicates Criminal syndicates, also known as organized crime groups, are intricately structured organizations dedicated to profit driven illegal activities.
Engagement: These syndicates are engaged in diverse criminal enterprises.
Activities: Their activities span drug trafficking, extortion, gambling, prostitution, and human trafficking.
Criminal Syndicates Cybercrime has eclipsed physical crime in several countries, demonstrating its widespread impact through incidents and financial losses.
01 Operated across legal jurisdictions 02 03 Driven by criminal profit Well resourced and funded Competitors Espionage Competitor driven espionage is not only a strategy employed by state actors but is also increasingly utilized by businesses to gain competitive advantages over their rivals.
The two main types include: 01 02 Cyber espionage Insider threat Insider Threat An insider threat arises when individuals, whether they have authorized access or not, potentially use their reach within an organization to intentionally or inadvertently cause harm.
A malicious insider threat actor: 01 Possesses or holds authorized access to the organization's assets 02 Includes employees, contractors, and partners as potential threats 03 Engages in activities such as sabotage, financial gain, or seeking a business advantage Individuals Involved in Insider Threat Potential insider threats can come from a variety of roles within an organization, including: Current or Former employees Full time employees Part time employees Temporary employees Contractors Trusted business partners Organizational Assets Affected by Insider Threat Insider threats can compromise various organizational assets, including: Information Technology People Facilities Intentional or Unintentional Insider Threat Insider threats, whether intentional or unintentional, manifest in various forms, including: Workplace violence Fraud Social engineering Theft of intellectual property Accidental disclosure Accidental loss Intentional or unintentional threats Cyber sabotage Espionage Negative Effects Caused by Insider Threats to an Organization Harm to the organizations customers Harm to the organizations employees Negative effects on an organization Damage to the organizations reputation Degradation of CIA of information or information systems Disruption of the organizations ability to meet its mission Comparison of Actors The following table illustrates a comparative analysis of different cyber threat actors, highlighting their motivations, skill levels, resources, and potential impacts.
Script Kiddies Motivation Thrill seeking Hacktivists Organized crime Nation state Insider threat Political or social statement Financial gain Affect political outcomes Revenge or financial gain Skill level Low Low to high High High Low to medium Resources/ Funding Low Low to medium High High Low to medium Outcome Service disruption Service disruption Financial loss of victim Disable crucial infrastructure Financial loss, disruption Examples of Threat Agent This table presents various cyber threat agents, detailing the associated threats they pose, vulnerabilities they exploit, and the nature of the resulting threats.
Threat agent Threat Vulnerability Type of threat Fire Destruction of operating facility Faulty fire detection or suppression equipment Physical Clueless user Sharing of sensitive data using social engineering Lack of security awareness training Administrative Malicious insider Data theft Lack of adequate access controls on data Technical/physical Hacker Unauthorized hacking Unpatched server Technical Insider Threat Actors Unintentional insider threats often arise from organizational oversights and inadequate practices.
Examples could include: Weak policies and procedures 01 03 02 Weak adherence to policies and procedures Lack of training or security awareness and shadow IT Attributes of Actors Attributes of Threat Actors Threat analysis is the process of identifying the threat attributes with respect to: 01 02 03 Location (Internal or Resource or Level of sophistication or external) funding availability capability Location Location threat actors can be classified as: External threat actor These threats originate outside the organization and include a wide range of entities, from individual hackers to organized crime groups and nationstates.
Internal threat actor These threats originate within an organizations ranks, often taking advantage of their familiarity with systems, networks, and processes.
Resource Funding or Availability The amount of resources and funding that threat actors have access to is commonly known as resources or funding availability.
It is a key factor in determining their operational capabilities.
Well resources These actors have access to substantial resources, which may include financial backing, advanced technology, or even government support.
Nation state and APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) actors fall into this category.
Limited resources Some threat actors, especially smallscale cybercriminals or unskilled attackers, operate with limited resources.
They may rely on readily available hacking tools, social engineering, or other low cost methods.
Level of Sophistications The level of sophistication or capability of threat actors directly impacts the complexity and potential success of their attacks: Highly sophisticated threat actors These actors possess advanced technical skills and deep knowledge of various attack vectors.
Nation states, APT groups, and certain organized crime syndicates often fall into this category.
Less sophisticated threat actors Unskilled attackers, script kiddies, and some cybercriminals operate with less advanced technical skills.
They might rely on easily accessible tools, pre made malware, and simpler attack methods.
Intent and Motivation Intent and Motivation Intent describes what an assailant believes the attack can achieve, while motivation is the reason for committing the attack.
Data exfiltration Cyber espionage Service disruptions Intent and Motivation Blackmail Financial gain Political beliefs Intent and Motivation Revenge Disruption or chaos War Attack Vectors Attack Vectors A threat actor's attack vector is the pathway to gain access to a secure system.
Gaining access entails executing malicious code on the target system.
The access can be as follows: Goal: Hackers aim to steal sensitive data, acquire money, or disrupt operations.
Method: An attack vector is the method they use to achieve this.
Examples: Phishing emails, malware, unpatched software vulnerabilities, and weak passwords are all common attack vectors.
Different Types of Attack Vectors Email Instant message File based threat Voice call Short message service Image based threat Removable device Vulnerable software Different Types of Attack Vectors Unsupported systems and applications Default credentials Unsecure networks Open service ports Supply chain Human vectors/social engineering Attack Vectors: Email Attackers frequently use email to spread malicious links or attachments that can cause a users system to download malware.
Phishing emails are common; they may pretend to be from reliable sources to trick users into disclosing personal or financial information.
Attack Vectors: Instant Message (IM) IM platforms are widely used for personal and business communication and are frequently targeted by cyber attackers.
Attackers may use IM to spread malware via nefarious links or attachments, take advantage of holes in the IM software, or carry out phishing scams.
Attack Vectors: File Based Threat File based threats use common files, such as documents, spreadsheets, or PDFs, to carry harmful scripts.
These threats occur when malicious code is embedded within or attached to these files, which are then transmitted or shared to infect systems or networks.
This type of threat is common in attachments sent via email, downloaded from websites, or transferred through file sharing services.
Attack Vectors: Voice Call Voice call threats encompass a range of malicious activities conducted via phone calls, including deceptive practices such as vishing (voice phishing), unauthorized call interception, and fraudulent caller ID spoofing.
Often, an attacker impersonates a legitimate entity to solicit personal or financial information or manipulates caller ID information to appear trustworthy.
Attack Vectors: Short Message Service (SMS) Due to the growing reliance on mobile devices, SMS vulnerabilities have become a prominent threat.
SMS phishing (smishing) uses text messages to deceive users into revealing personal information or downloading malicious attachments.
Attack Vectors: Image Based Threat Image based threats involve manipulating digital images to hide or distribute malware, engage in phishing, or execute harmful actions.
Attackers embed destructive code or manipulated image metadata to spread malware through email, social media, or other online platforms.
When the image is opened, the hidden code can compromise the system.
Attack Vectors: Removable Device Portable storage devices like USB drives, external hard drives, or memory cards can introduce removable device threats, which can carry and transmit malware.
When an infected removable device connects to a computer, it can execute malicious code, leading to data theft, system compromise, or malware spreading to other connected systems.
Attack Vectors: Vulnerable Software Vulnerable software has flaws or weaknesses in its code or design.
Attackers can exploit vulnerable software to gain unauthorized access, disrupt operations, or cause other malicious activities.
Vulnerable Software Prevention Understanding the concepts of client based and agentless security solutions is essential to avoid vulnerable software.
Client based security It requires installing software (an agent) on a client device itself.
The agent actively monitors and protects against malicious activities, such as exploiting software vulnerabilities.
Agentless security It does not require installing software on individual client devices.
Instead, it involves monitoring and enforcing security policies centrally, often through network devices or virtual appliances.
Attack Vectors: Unsupported Systems and Application These are software tools or platforms that do not receive regular updates, security patches, or technical support from the developer or vendor.
This situation often arises when a software version reaches its official end of life (EOL) or the company that developed the software goes out of business or discontinues to support the products.
The security risks associated with unsupported systems and applications can be high, particularly when known vulnerabilities remain unaddressed.
Attack Vectors: Unsecure Networks Unsecure networks are network, WIFI, or Bluetooth connections that one can join without a password or any other form of authentication.
This lack of security makes them prime targets for hackers who can exploit these vulnerabilities to steal data or infect devices.
Risks associated with unsecured networks are: o Interception of data o Man in the middle attacks o Malware distribution Types of Networks Wired networks Wireless networks Devices are connected without physical cables.
Wireless networks that are improperly configured or lack robust encryption protocols can be susceptible to unauthorized access and eavesdropping.
Devices are interconnected using physical cables.
These are generally considered more secure than their wireless counterparts.
They can still be vulnerable if proper segmentation and access controls are not implemented.
Bluetooth networks These networks allow shortrange communication between devices.
They can be exploited if devices are set to discoverable mode or known Bluetooth protocol vulnerabilities are not patched.
Attack Vectors: Open Service Ports These are network communication endpoints that are left accessible and unguarded on a computer system.
Applications use these ports to communicate with other devices over a network.
Open service ports can present a significant security risk when not adequately secured.
An open service port can be compared to an unlocked door in a building.
Just as an unlocked door allows anyone to enter, an open service port can allow unauthorized access to an application or even the underlying operating system.
Mitigating Risks Associated with Open Ports Scanning ports Configuring firewalls Monitoring and logging Patching and updating Attack Vectors: Default Credentials Default credentials (often set by manufacturers for easy installation) are a glaring weakness.
Attackers leverage default usernames and passwords to gain unauthorized access to systems and applications, and these default credentials are posted on several websites.
Routers, switches, and other network device manufacturers often ship their products with simple default passwords, expecting the end user to change these credentials during initial setup.
Attack Vectors: Supply Chain A supply chain compromise occurs when an adversary jeopardizes a system's confidentiality, integrity, or availability of the information it processes, stores, or transmits.
This chain, comprised of connected businesses, can be vulnerable at various points, making it a potential target for cybercriminals.
Attack Vectors: Social Engineering Social Engineering is the exploitation of human behavior and trust.
It is a strategy that relies on human emotion, deceptive tricks, and outright lies.
Social engineers predate on people's intrinsic wants and needs.
They are more knowledgeable of attributes and tailor their attacks accordingly.
Social Engineering Examples of typical social engineering interference scenarios: An attacker creates an executable file that prompts a user for their password and records whatever they type.
An intruder impersonates a remote sales agent seeking help to set up remote access and contacts the help desk.
An intruder sets off a fire alarm and connects a surveillance system to a network port while everyone is distracted.
Social Engineering Principles Social engineering attacks rely on one or more of the following principles to be persuasive: Familiarity or liking Consensus or social proof It creates trust.
It utilizes courteous behaviors.
It makes the request appear reasonable and natural.
It creates fabricated testimonials or contacts.
Authority and intimidation Scarcity and urgency It makes the target fearful of refusing.
It takes advantage of a lack of knowledge or awareness.
It convinces the target to make a choice.
Phishing Phishing is a hybrid of social engineering and spoofing.
It tricks the target into interacting with a malicious resource masked as a trusted entity, typically via email as the vector.
The user's login credentials are recorded as they authenticate with the spoofed site.
Phishing The different types of phishing techniques include: Spear phishing: It is a phishing scam in which the attacker possesses data that makes an individual target more likely to be deceived by the attack.
Whaling: It is a spear phishing attack directed specifically against upper management levels in the organization.
Vishing: It is a phishing attack conducted through a voice channel.
Smishing: It refers to the use of text communications via simple message service as the vector.
Impersonation Impersonation involves pretending to be someone else to gain trust or access.
An attacker might impersonate a colleague, a boss, or even a family member to trick an individual into divulging sensitive information.
Training employees to verify identities through multiple channels can mitigate this risk.
Watering Hole Attack This cyberattack strategy targets specific users or organizations by compromising the websites they regularly visit.
\ It is like a predator waiting near a watering hole in the wild, knowing their prey will eventually show up.
To understand users browsing habits, an attacker might guess or use direct observation.
This type of attack may also incorporate other social engineering techniques, such as eavesdropping, pretexting, and phishing.
Watering Hole Attack The hacker hacks the most visited websites and uploads malicious code.
The user accesses those websites.
The users system gets infected with the code injected by the hacker.
Typosquatting Typosquatting is a technique that takes advantage of human error.
Knowing that users often type URLs incorrectly, a typosquatter registers a domain that is a common typo of a legitimate site.
www.yourdoma1n.com They then impersonate the real website to host malware or perform other malicious activities to compromise users' systems.
www.yourdomain.com Example: An attacker might register the domain gogle.com to impersonate the website google.com and host malware or perform other malicious activities to compromise users' systems.
Brand Impersonation Brand impersonation is a tactic in which attackers pretend to represent a trusted brand, such as a well known bank or technology company.
This impersonation can be used in phishing emails or fake websites to deceive victims into providing personal or financial information.
Regular education, awareness training, and technical controls like email filtering can help individuals recognize and avoid these impersonation attempts.
Common Threat Vectors and Attack Surfaces Introduction to Threat Actors and Attack Surface Threat actors Threat actors are individuals or groups that pose a potential risk to an organization's security.
Their motivations can vary and include financial gain, espionage, terrorism, or personal satisfaction.
Attack surface The attack surface refers to all potential entry points a threat actor could exploit to gain unauthorized access to a system or network.
It includes all vulnerabilities, exposed systems, and applications that could be targeted.
Application Vulnerability The application layer is often a prime target for attackers because it serves as a gateway to user interactions and data.
Vulnerabilities at this level can be especially detrimental, providing multiple avenues for malicious intrusion.
Application vulnerabilities arise from weaknesses in how an application is designed, developed, or configured.
Attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems or data.
These vulnerabilities can exist in various applications, ranging from web browsers and mobile apps to enterprise software.
Types of Application Vulnerabilities Memory injections Buffer overflow Application vulnerabilities Race condition Malicious update Memory Injections A memory injection attack involves an attacker introducing (injecting) malicious code into a systems memory.
Instead of executing malicious code directly on a host system, an attacker exploits a vulnerability in a legitimate process running on the system.
This exploitation allows the injected code to run within the security context of the legitimate process.
This makes detection more challenging because the malicious code appears to be part of a trusted operation.
Memory injection attacks are particularly disastrous because they exploit legitimate processes to execute malicious code, making them difficult to detect.
Controls for Memory Injections End Point Detections and Response (EDR) It monitors abnormal behavior and flags anomalies.
Data execution prevention 1 2 It prevents code from being executed from data pages, blocking many types of memory injection attacks.
Whitelisting User awareness training It allows only preapproved applications to run on the system.
It trains users to recognize phishing attempts and social engineering tactics.
3 4 Buffer Overflow A buffer overflow, or buffer overrun, occurs when more data is placed into a fixed length buffer than it can handle.
This extra information overflows into adjacent memory space, corrupting or overwriting the data held there.
Buffer Overflow Example One real world example of a buffer overflow attack is the Slammer worm, also known as the SQL Slammer.
In January 2003, this malicious software exploited a buffer overflow vulnerability in Microsoft SQL Server.
The worm was spread rapidly by sending a small, specially crafted data packet to vulnerable servers, causing a buffer overflow in the servers memory.
As a result of this overflow, the worms code was executed in the servers memory space, generating a flood of network traffic as it attempted to infect other vulnerable systems.
Reason for Buffer Overflow Poor programming practice Lack of input validation A B Programming language weakness D Poor management of memory allocation C Prevention of Buffer Overflow A B C Proper coding practice Proper code review Proper input validation Malicious Update A malicious update occurs when legitimate software or firmware is altered or replaced with a version containing harmful code through an update mechanism.
Attackers exploit the normal update process, disguising their destructive code as a routine update.
Users believe they are simply updating their software or system, and unknowingly, they install the malicious version, leading to potential theft of sensitive information, unauthorized system access, or other damage.
Malicious Update Example CCleaner, a popular utility software used to clean and optimize computers, was compromised in 2017 when hackers successfully breached the supply chain of its parent company, Piriform.
Hackers injected malicious code into a legitimate software update for CCleaner.
This malicious update was distributed to millions of users who trusted the softwares legitimacy.
Once installed, the hidden malware allowed hackers to gain unauthorized access to infected systems, collect sensitive information, and deliver additional payloads for future attacks.
Prevention of Malicious Updates A B C Using secure channels for updates Verifying updates with digital signatures Educating users about the risks of updates from untrusted sources Race Condition A race condition occurs when two instructions from separate threads attempt to access the same data simultaneously.
Ideally, the developer should have programmed the threads to access the data sequentially.
To illustrate, consider a scenario where one person is viewing a files attributes while, simultaneously, another person accesses the same file.
This phenomenon is referred to as Time of Check to Time of Use (TOC/TOU).
In this situation, the individual accessing the file might modify its data, inadvertently overwriting the information being viewed by the first person.
Race Condition Example An example of a race condition could involve an airline reservation system.
Imagine two passengers, Alice and Bob, trying to book the last available seat on a flight simultaneously.
Alice initiates the booking process and checks whether the last seat is available.
Simultaneously, Bob starts the booking process and sees that the last seat is available.
However, between Alices check and booking confirmation, Bob confirms his booking.
The system processes both transactions simultaneously.
Due to the time gap between Alices check and booking confirmation, both bookings are allowed to proceed, resulting in an overbooked flight.
OS Based Vulnerabilities An OS based vulnerability attack happens when hackers exploit weaknesses in the core software that manages a device's hardware and software resources.
These vulnerabilities can arise from OS code, design, or configuration flaws.
Adversaries may target these weaknesses to gain unauthorized access, disrupt operations, or extract sensitive data from a system.
OS Based Vulnerability Example A prime example is the BlueKeep vulnerability that affected Microsoft Windows systems.
This exploit allowed attackers to infiltrate unpatched systems remotely, compromising 1 million devices.
Web Based Vulnerabilities Web based vulnerabilities are weaknesses or flaws found in web applications that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to data, systems, or entire networks.
These vulnerabilities can exist on the server side (the code running on the web server) or the client side (the user's web browser).
Types of Web Based Vulnerabilities Cross site scripting SQL injections Cross site request forgery SQL Injections These attacks allow a malicious individual to directly perform SQL transactions against the underlying database, bypassing the isolation model.
SQL injection (SQLi) refers to an attack where an attacker can execute malicious SQL statements to control a web applications database server.
Such an attack can damage the database, retrieve information, or manipulate data.
SQL Attack Prevention Update and patch A B Perform input validation Limit account privilege C D Use stored procedure Cross Site Scripting Cross site scripting (XSS) attacks involve injecting malicious scripts into otherwise benign and trusted websites.
These attacks occur when an attacker uses a web application to send malicious code, typically in the form of a browser side script, to a different end user.
XSS enables attackers to inject client side scripts into web pages viewed by other users.
Cross Scripting Attack Illustration 1.
Suppose a web application, abc.com, is hosted on a server with an XSS vulnerability.
Now, a user attempts to access abc.com through their web browser for daily tasks or any other specific task.
This XSS vulnerability in the web application server enables hackers to inject malicious scripts into the web server.
The malicious script, injected by a hacker, is executed on the user's browser, enabling the hacker to steal valuable information or perform any designated task.
Impact of XSS A Session hijacking B Deploying hostile content C Impersonating user D Phishing Types of Cross Site Scripting Server side XSS vulnerability Reflected or nonpersistent XSS 02 Stored or persistent XSS Client side XSS vulnerability DOM based XSS 05 Types of XSS Reflected or nonpersistent XSS Non Reflected or Persistent XSS DOM based XSS Reflected vulnerabilities occur when an attacker tricks the victim into processing a URL programmed with a rogue script to steal the victims sensitive information (such as cookies, session IDs, etc.).
These are also known as stored or second order vulnerabilities and are generally targeted at websites that allow users to input data stored in a database or another location, such as forums, message boards, guest books, etc.
It is a client side web application vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into the Document Object Model (DOM) of a web page.
The principle behind this attack lies in exploiting the lack of proper input or output validation on dynamic websites.
The attacker posts text containing malicious JavaScript.
When other users later view these posts, their browsers render the page and execute the attackers JavaScript.
The DOM can be imagined as a blueprint for a house that represents the structure and content of a web page.
It outlines how elements like rooms (sections), furniture (content), and hallways (navigation) are organized and interact within the browser.
Prevention of XSS Limiting type of uploads Lack of input validation A B Proper coding practice and code review D Updating and patching C Cross Site Request Forgery Cross site request forgery (XSRF) attacks exploit unintended behaviors that are legitimate within defined use but occur under unauthorized circumstances.
These attacks are executed against sites with authenticated users, leveraging the sites trust from a prior authentication event.
The attacker tricks the users browser into sending an HTTP request to the target site, thereby exploiting this trust.
Cross Site Request Forgery 1.
Imagine the user's bank lets users log in and perform financial transactions without needing to validate their authentication for each transaction.
For example, the user would not be re authenticated when transferring money to another account.
This transaction executes successfully because the banking application believes it is being initiated by the user.
However, it is being executed by a malicious application opened in another tab or browser.
Now, the user opens a banking application and authenticates the banking website.
1 4 2 3 3.
If the user is still logged in and has not closed their browser, an action in another browser tab could send a hidden request to the bank, resulting in a transaction that appears to be authorized but was not initiated by the user.
Prevention of CSRF Train and maintaining awareness Limit authentication time A B Scan and testing regularly D Set cookie expiration C Controls for Web Application Vulnerability Validations and sanitizations Regular patching A B Strong authentication D Secure coding practices and regular testing C Hardware Vulnerabilities Hardware vulnerabilities are flaws in a computer system's physical components that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to data or take control of the system.
These vulnerabilities can exist in a variety of devices, including computers, servers, mobile devices, and even Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Types of Hardware Vulnerabilities End of life Firmware End of life Legacy platforms Firmware Vulnerability A firmware vulnerability refers to a weakness in the low level code that controls a device's hardware.
These weaknesses can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal data, or disrupt the device's functionality.
Firmware is essentially the hidden software that acts as an intermediary between the physical components and the operating system.
End of Life End of life (EOL) hardware refers to hardware that has reached the stage in its lifecycle when the manufacturer no longer supports it.
This lack of support often means that the hardware does not receive essential security updates or patches, making it especially susceptible to exploitation.
The most effective way to mitigate EOL hardware vulnerabilities is through a proactive replacement or upgrading process to ensure that hardware components remain current and supported.
End of life Enhancing Server Security Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a Windows Server Administrator, you have been tasked with enhancing the security of Windows Server 2022.
The primary objectives include disabling guest and local administrator accounts, restricting remote access, configuring account lockout policies, and disabling unnecessary services.
These actions are essential to mitigate cyber threats and ensure the secure operation of the server.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 01_Enhancing_Server_Security Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Disable guest user accounts 2.
Disable the local administrator account 3.
Create a new, unique administrator account 4.
Restrict remote access 5.
Configure account lockout policy per best practices 6.
Disable any unnecessary service Legacy Hardware Legacy hardware vulnerabilities are security weaknesses in older computer equipment that can be especially dangerous due to a lack of support and updates.
These vulnerabilities are like cracks in an aging foundation, making the system much easier for attackers to break into.
Issues with legacy hardware include: a) Missing security patches b) Outdated security patches c) Limited functionality d) End of life status Virtualization Virtualization is a technology that enables multiple operating systems to run side by side on the same processing hardware.
It adds a software layer between an operating system and the underlying computer hardware.
Application App OS App OS App OS Operating system Hypervisor Traditional architecture Virtual architecture Its benefits include efficiency, higher availability, and lower costs.
Hypervisor A hypervisor is software that is installed to virtualize a given computer.
Host machine: A computer on which a hypervisor is installed Guest machine: Every virtual machine Type 1 hypervisors run directly on the host machines hardware.
Examples: Microsoft Hyper V, VMware ESX/ESXi Type 2 hypervisors run within an existing operating system environment.
Examples: VMware Workstation, VirtualBox App App App App OS OS OS OS Hypervisor Hypervisor Hardware Operating system Hardware Type 1 Bare Metal Type 2 Hosted VM Attacks Cloud servers contain numerous VMs, which may be either active or offline, and regardless of their state, they are susceptible to attacks.
Active VMs are vulnerable to all traditional attacks that can affect physical servers.
An Offline VM is stored as a file and needs to be protected.
Once a VM is compromised, VMs on the same physical server can attack each other because they share the same hardware and software resources, including memory, device drivers, storage, and hypervisor software.
Hyperjacking Hyperjacking is an attack in which a hacker takes malicious control over the hypervisor, which creates the virtual environment within a virtual machine (VM) host.
It involves installing a malicious, fake hypervisor that can manage the entire server system.
Regular security measures are ineffective because the operating system will not know that the machine has been compromised.
The hypervisor represents a single point of failure while securing and protecting sensitive information.
While an actual hyperjacking incident has yet to be reported, it is hypothetically possible.
VM VM VM VM Hypervisor Hardware Physical Server VM VM Sprawl Sprawl refers to the uncontrolled spreading and disorganization of resources, assets, or systems due to the absence of an organizational structure when numerous similar elements need to be managed.
VM sprawl, also known as virtualization sprawl, happens when an administrator can no longer effectively control and manage all the virtual machines on a network.
VMs are essentially files that contain a copy of a working machines disk and memory structures, and management is easy when the numbers are small.
VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM VM Hypervisor Hypervisor Host immediately after virtualizing Host one year after virtualizing However, as the number of VMs rapidly grows over time, sprawl can become an issue.
VM sprawl is a symptom of a disorganized structure.
Resource Usage Resource sharing is a key advantage of virtualization, but improper allocation and management can lead to performance issues and resource contention.
If resources aren't sanitized before reuse, sensitive data may be compromised.
Excessive resource consumption by one VM can impact the performance of others on the same host, leading to resource exhaustion.
What Is Cloud?
The cloud refers to a network of servers around the world.
These servers store data, run applications, and deliver services like webmail, video streaming, and social media.
Instead of having your own physical computer to store files or run programs, you can access them through the internet from any device.
Cloud Vulnerabilities Cloud vulnerabilities are security weaknesses or gaps within a cloud computing environment that malicious actors can exploit.
These weaknesses can be found in various cloud components, and a few of them will be mentioned in the next slide.
Cloud Vulnerabilities Risk of shared tenancy In a public cloud, multiple tenants share the same environment.
Without proper isolation, this can result in data breaches and unauthorized access.
Inadequate configuration management In cloud services, poorly managed intricate settings, configurations, and permissions can expose resources or facilitate infiltration.
Identity and access management flaws Insecure interfaces and APIs In cloud environments, compromised credentials, weak authentication, and user permissions can lead to unauthorized access and compromised accounts.
In cloud services, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are vital for interaction.
However, insecure APIs can be exploited by attackers.
Supply Chain Risk The supply chain is the network of individuals, organizations, resources, activities, and technologies involved in creating and delivering a product from suppliers to end users.
Supply chain risk management (SCRM) is the process of identifying, monitoring, detecting, and mitigating threats to supply chain continuity and profitability.
A supply chain compromise is an incident within the supply chain where an adversary jeopardizes the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of a system or the information it processes, stores, or transmits.
This compromise can happen at any point within the system development life cycle of the product or service.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities Service provider vulnerabilities Hardware provider vulnerabilities Software provider vulnerabilities Businesses outsourcing functions increase reliance on external entities, leading to security breaches and service interruptions if third party relationships are poorly managed.
Counterfeit hardware or compromised components can enter the supply chain, posing potential threats to system integrity, resilience, and data confidentiality.
Software provider vulnerabilities are weaknesses or flaws in software applications exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access or control over a system, having severe consequences for both the software provider and their users.
Risks Associated with Hardware, Software, and Services Here are a few risks associated with hardware, software, and services: Counterfeit hardware or hardware with embedded malware Poor information security practices by lower tier suppliers Software security vulnerabilities in supply chain management or supplier systems Compromised software or hardware purchased from suppliers Cryptographic Vulnerability A cryptographic vulnerability is a weakness in the systems and processes used to secure information.
Cryptographic vulnerabilities, specifically weaknesses within certificates and encryption, require thorough evaluation and scrutiny.
These vulnerabilities can expose sensitive data or allow attackers to bypass security measures.
Cryptography Vulnerabilities CA compromise Key compromise Flawed implementation Outdated algorithm Side channel attacks Backdoor exploitation Cryptography Vulnerabilities Random number generation Certification revocation lists/online certificate status protocol SSL striping SSL/TLS downgrade Secure key management Ransomware Cryptographic Vulnerabilities Certificate Authority (CA) compromise Certificate Authorities (CAs) issue digital certificates on which the digital world relies.
If a CA is compromised, attackers can generate fraudulent certificates, leading to the interception of encrypted communications and potentially causing widespread breaches.
The strength of cryptographic systems is entirely dependent on the strength of their keys.
Key compromise Flawed implementation Keys can be compromised due to theft, weak generation, or poor key management, which can lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation, or decryption.
Flawed cryptographic implementations can lead to the failure of even robust processes.
Poorly coded encryption routines and weak key management can create openings that adversaries can exploit.
Cryptographic Vulnerabilities Outdated algorithm Cryptographic algorithms that were once secure may become vulnerable to emerging attack techniques or increased computational power.
Outdated algorithms may expose data to potential breaches.
Side channel attacks Backdoor implementations Cryptographic operations can inadvertently leak information through side channels such as power consumption, timing, or electromagnetic radiation.
Attackers skilled in exploiting these side channels can compromise encryption keys or data.
Deliberate or unintentional backdoors within cryptographic systems can provide attackers with unauthorized access, effectively rendering the encryption useless.
Cryptographic Vulnerabilities Random generations Certification revocations lists/OCSP Secure key management Secure encryption relies on truly random numbers to generate cryptographic keys.
Flawed or predictable random number generation leads to weak keys and compromised security.
Compromised certificates are annulled, and any keys listed on the CRL are unequivocally invalidated to prevent unauthorized utilization.
These measures are vital tools for maintaining the integrity of the trust infrastructure.
Secure key management requires strict policies to ensure keys are generated securely, stored safely, and rotated regularly.
Weak key management provides a common vector for attacks.
Effective key management involves securely storing keys in HSM or key escrow services.
Cryptographic Vulnerabilities SSL striping SSL stripping is an attack where attackers conduct an SSL downgrade attack, bypassing certificate based protection and converting a secure session into an HTTP session.
SSL/TLS downgrade An SSL/TLS downgrade attack manipulates a web browser and server into negotiating a weaker version of the protocol or a less secure cipher suite (a set of encryption algorithms) than they normally would.
Insecure communication channel If data is either transmitted unencrypted over a network or encrypted at rest, it can be intercepted by attackers.
Causes of Cryptography Uses outdated cryptography As newer, stronger algorithms emerge, outdated algorithms leave data vulnerable.
Generates insufficient randomness Cryptographic systems rely on high entropy and unpredictable random number generation for secure key creation.
Implements weak custom cryptography Encounters physical security violations Non established, non vetted cryptographic libraries and protocols are unsafe.
If attackers gain physical access to devices storing cryptographic keys, they can steal the keys and decrypt protected data.
Best Practices for Protection against Cryptography Stay up to date Leverage strong algorithm Implement secure key management Prioritize physical security Encrypt data in transit and at rest Misconfiguration Vulnerability Misconfiguration vulnerabilities are security weaknesses arising from improper settings or errors in configuring computer systems, applications, or cloud services.
These vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to data, systems, or functionality.
Causes of Misconfiguration Human error Complexity Simple mistakes during system setup, configuration changes, or applying security patches can introduce vulnerabilities.
Modern systems have numerous configuration options, making it challenging to ensure that everything is securely set.
Default setting Lack of awareness Many systems come with default configurations that prioritize ease of use over security.
These defaults often need to be changed to enhance security.
Sometimes, system administrators or users might not be fully aware of the security implications of specific configuration settings.
Types of Misconfiguration Vulnerabilities Unnecessary accounts and privileges: Leaving unused accounts active or assigning excessive privileges to users can create security risks.
Weak passwords: Using default or easily guessable passwords for accounts or systems makes them vulnerable to brute force attacks.
Insecure remote access: Enabling remote access features without proper security measures, such as strong passwords or two factor authentication, creates vulnerabilities.
Unpatched software: Running outdated software with known vulnerabilities can lead to exploitation if not patched promptly.
Open ports and services: Keeping unnecessary ports or services running on a system can provide entry points for attackers.
Impact of Misconfiguration Vulnerability Data breaches System outages Malware infection Compliance violation Prevention of Misconfiguration Vulnerabilities Standardization: Implementing standardized configurations to ensure consistency and reduce the risk of errors Automation: Automating configuration tasks whenever possible to minimize human error Configuration management tools: Using configuration management tools to track and enforce secure configurations across systems Prevention of Misconfiguration Vulnerabilities Security best practices: Adhering to security best practices for system configuration, password management, and access controls Regular security audits: Conducting regular security audits to identify and address misconfiguration vulnerabilities Security awareness training: Training system administrators and users about secure configuration practices Mobile Device Vulnerability Mobile devices are essential parts of our lives, but they also carry a lot of sensitive information.
They seamlessly integrate into our modern lives, serving as channels for communication, information, and entertainment.
They have vulnerabilities that encompass security weaknesses within smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices.
These vulnerabilities may include insecure data storage, weak authentication mechanisms, or outdated operating systems.
Mobile Vulnerabilities Jailbreaking Counterfeits apps Rooting OS vulnerabilities Sideloading Device vulnerabilities Mobile Vulnerabilities Jailbreaking Jailbreaking applies specifically to Apple devices and allows users to bypass manufacturer or operating system restrictions, providing more control over the device.
Rooting Sideloading Rooting allows users to bypass manufacturer or operating system restrictions on Android devices, providing more control over the device.
Sideloading refers to installing applications on a mobile device from sources outside the official app store.
It can introduce vulnerabilities, as these applications may contain malicious code or bypass security controls.
Mobile Vulnerabilities Counterfeit apps OS vulnerability Unregulated stores can host third party counterfeit or modified versions of legitimate apps carrying hidden malware.
Software vulnerabilities are flaws in the core software that powers a mobile device, such as Android or iOS, which attackers can exploit to gain root access and complete control over the system.
Device vulnerabilities Hardware vulnerabilities are physical weaknesses in a mobile device itself, such as flaws in the hardware or a poorly secured boot process, which attackers can exploit to install malware or steal data directly from the device's memory.
Zero Day Attacks A zero day attack is a cyberattack that exploits a recently discovered software vulnerability that the software vendor or developer is unaware of.
Imagine a hole in a wall that no one knows exists; that's what a zero day vulnerability is like for a computer system.
Zero: This highlights the fact that software developers have no time to address the issue because attackers have already found it.
Day: This refers to the day the vulnerability is discovered.
Best Practices for Protection against Zero Day Attack Keep software updated Be cautious with links and attachments Use security software Controls Use strong password Stay informed Indicators, Indicators of Compromise, and Indicators of Attack Indicators Signs of possible malicious actions within a system or network indicate that an issue may exist.
Behaviors, patterns, or anomalies indicate unauthorized access, malware infection, or other cyber threats.
Observation and analysis of these indicators are essential for security, allowing early detection and response to threats and developing effective defense mechanisms.
Examples of Indicators Account lockout Concurrent usage Account lockouts can be early warnings of unauthorized access attempts, especially for privileged accounts.
Concurrent user sessions showing sudden increases may indicate unauthorized access or a breach.
Resource consumption Resource inaccessibility Unusual spikes in resource consumption, such as excessive CPU or memory usage, may indicate a malware infection or a DDoS attack on your systems.
Sudden inaccessibility of critical resources may indicate a cyberattack, such as a DDoS attack.
Impossible travel Impossible travel with multiple logins from geographically distant locations in an unrealistically short timeframe may indicate a potential account compromise.
Out of cycle logging Irregular log generation times may indicate suspicious activities and warrant investigation.
Indicators of Compromise Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) serve as evidence of a cyberattack, indicating that a system is being compromised by unauthorized activity.
2 Artifacts detected on a network or within an operating system serve as strong indicators of a computer intrusion.
1 3 Modern antimalware systems use known indicators of compromise to detect threats early, proactively preventing and protecting data and IT systems.
Indicators of Compromise Rundown of some IoCs: Anomalies in user accounts 01 Suspicious network activity 02 Suspicious emails or attachments 03 System file changes 04 05 Security software alerts Indicators of Attacks Indicate potential ongoing attacks or high risks of attacks by resembling suspicious behavior and being more dynamic in nature Provide early warnings of potential threats by identifying suspicious activities or behaviors within a network, helping organizations proactively defend against cyberattacks 2 1 3 Identify signs and behaviors suggesting an ongoing or imminent cyberattack, unlike Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) that focus on evidence of a successful attack Indicators of Attacks Rundown of some IoAs: Escalation of user privileges 01 Unusual login attempts 02 Modification of critical system files 03 Abnormal data transfer patterns 04 05 Traffics originating from high risk location IOC vs IOA Feature Indicator of compromise Indicator of attack 1 Focus Evidence of past compromise Signs of ongoing attack 2 Nature Specific, static digital evidence Broader, dynamic patterns of activity 3 Detection Identify already compromised systems Proactively identify potential attacks 4 Example Known malware signature Unusual login attempts Investigating DoS and MITM Attacks Using Wireshark Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a Network Security Analyst, you are tasked with investigating potential Denial of Service (DoS) and Man in the Middle (MITM) attacks.
Using Wireshark, you need to filter and analyze network traffic to identify anomalies such as excessive packet counts, IP duplication, and irregular ARP entries.
This investigation aims to detect and mitigate security threats to maintain network integrity and protect against malicious activities.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 02_Investigating_DoS_and_MITM_attacks_using_Wireshark Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Analyze the MITM.pcapng file 2.
Analyze the NmapScanANDDoS.pcapng file 3.
Mitigate MITM and DoS attacks Malware Attacks Malware Malware, or malicious software, encompasses various harmful programs intentionally designed to execute unauthorized actions on a target system.
It includes software that disrupts or damages computers and networks.
It executes malicious actions to fulfill an attacker's goals, like data theft or system sabotage.
Impacts of Malware Malware can have various detrimental effects on systems, including: Stealing personal information 01 05 Deleting files 02 04 03 Conducting click fraud Using your computer as a relay Stealing software serial numbers Types of Malware Virus Worms Polymorphic virus Logic bombs Trojan horse Spyware Backdoor Types of Malware Potentially unwanted programs Ransomware Adware Bloatware Rootkits Keyloggers Virus A virus is malicious code that replicates by attaching itself to another piece of executable code.
It executes when the host code runs, infecting other files and performing harmful actions.
It can significantly slow down or crash your system, potentially leading to data loss.
Worms Worms are self replicating pieces of code designed to penetrate networks and computer systems.
They replicate and spread independently, similar to biological organisms.
They exploit vulnerabilities to move through networks, consuming bandwidth and rapidly infecting new hosts.
Logic Bombs Logic bombs are malicious code objects that infect a system and lie dormant until triggered by specific conditions, such as: A specific time A program launch A website login Other predefined events Trojan Horse A Trojan horse is a type of malicious software that disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users.
Trojans appear to perform a useful function but secretly execute malicious actions.
They are standalone programs that need to be installed by the user, often through deception.
They are designed to trick users into downloading or executing harmful software by mimicking legitimate files or programs.
Remote Access Trojans Remote Access Trojans (RATs) are modern day versions of Trojan horses in the cyber realm.
They are stealthy infiltrators concealed within legitimate files, granting cybercriminals remote control over compromised systems.
They allow command and control of the computer, enabling remote access for malicious activities such as data theft or malware installation.
Backdoor Backdoor programs allow attackers to maintain access to a system after unauthorized entry.
These programs: Ensure unrestricted access even if the initial entry method is blocked Allow installation inadvertently by authorized users via Trojan horses Spyware Spyware is malicious software that secretly gathers your personal information and activities.
Installs itself without your knowledge or consent Transmits stolen data to a third party, posing a significant threat to privacy and security Ransomware Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to extort money by encrypting the victims files, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid.
It infects systems by taking control of the victim's machine, including files and documents.
It is typically installed through malicious email attachments, links in instant messages, or visits to compromised websites.
Adware Adware is a type of malware that displays unwanted ads and pop ups.
These programs: Bombard you with endless ads and pop up windows, potentially dangerous to your device Often gather personal information, though most adware is considered safe Bloatware Bloatware is unwanted software pre installed on new devices.
It hogs storage space and slows down your device.
Examples: Trial versions of software, manufacturerbranded apps, promotional software, and unnecessary background programs Rootkits Rootkits are a very stealthy type of malware designed to provide attackers with unauthorized, privileged access to a computer system.
These programs: Dig deep into the system, usually at the root level, hiding their presence while giving attackers full control over the infected device Alter the operation of the operating system to enable nonstandard functionality Keylogger A keylogger is a type of malware designed to covertly record everything you type on your keyboard.
These programs: Act like digital eavesdroppers, capturing keystrokes including passwords, credit card numbers, and messages Transmit stolen information to attackers, posing a significant threat to privacy and security Potentially Unwanted Programs Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs), also known as Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs), are software that may install themselves without clear consent and can affect device performance.
Often bundled with other software, when installed without the user's full knowledge or explicit consent Tends to overconsume resources, slowing down the computer system Considered grayware due to its ambiguous nature: not fully malicious but still unwanted Virus Propagation Techniques Viruses use various methods to spread and infect systems.
These include: Master boot record virus Targets the MBR, the section of bootable media used to start the OS File infector virus Macro virus Infects executable files (.exe,.com) and triggers when the OS executes them Infects Microsoft Word and Excel documents using basic technologies Service injection virus Injects into trusted OS processes like svchost.exe, winlogon.exe, and explorer.exe Virus Technologies Viruses employ various techniques to evade detection and propagate within systems.
These include: Multipartite viruses Polymorphic viruses Use multiple propagation techniques to penetrate systems Modify their code as they travel from system to system Stealth viruses Hide by tampering with the OS to avoid detection Encrypted viruses Use cryptographic techniques to avoid detection Preventive Measures for Malware Control A few preventive measures to protect your system from malware are as follows: Dont click suspicious links Configure security settings Keep your software updated Use reputable antivirus or anti malware programs Enable strong passwords and two factor authentication Be cautious with downloads Beware of social engineering tactics Detective Measures for Malware Control Detective measures are essential to identify and mitigate malware threats.
These include: A Regular malware scans B System monitoring C Security software alerts Corrective Measures for Malware Control Corrective measures help mitigate the impact of malware after detection.
These include: Malware removal A B Attack reporting System restore C D Vulnerability patching Malware: Technical Controls Antivirus and antimalware software Endpoint detection and response Application whitelisting Scans for malicious software, Provides continuous monitoring Restricts the system to run only identifies threats, and removes or and analysis to detect suspicious authorized applications blocks them behaviors Firewalls Email security solutions Data loss prevention Filters network traffic to block Filters incoming emails, blocking Prevents malware from exfiltrating malicious patterns phishing and other email borne sensitive data threats Malware: Technical Controls Security information and event management Network segmentation Operating system and application hardening Collects and analyzes security logs Divides the network into Configures the system with to identify potential threats segments to contain malware security best practices, disabling spread exploitable features Analyzing Malware Reports Using VirusTotal Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a cybersecurity analyst, you are tasked with conducting a comprehensive malware analysis.
This involves using VirusTotal to examine file hashes, gather IP information, and utilize graph visualization tools.
The goal is to understand the malware's behavior and its network relationships, thereby identifying potential threats and mitigating the risk of infection and spread within the network.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 03_Analyzing_Malware_Reports_Using_VirusTotal Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Disable the Google Chrome security settings 2.
Disable the Windows Defender 3.
Download the malware 4.
Download 7 zip 5.
Perform VirusTotal analysis 6.
Perform hash, IP information, and graph analysis Physical Attack Physical Attack Physical infrastructure attacks are deliberate assaults on critical infrastructure, aiming to disrupt, damage, or destroy physical components.
These attacks can have severe consequences, affecting essential services that communities rely on.
These attacks involve using stealthy tactics to breach physical spaces.
Physical Attack Brute force physical attack This is a method of trying many password combinations to gain unauthorized access to a system.
RFID cloning RFID cloning is copying information from one chip onto another card, like making a fake key for a door that uses RFID cards instead of metal ones.
Network Attack Network Attack A network attack is an unauthorized and malicious attempt to disrupt, compromise, or gain access to computer systems, data, or communication within a network, often for malicious purposes.
Network attacks that target an organizations servers, holding confidential information, are called server side attacks.
Forms of Network Attacks Passive attacks: Involve monitoring network traffic to gather information without altering it Active attacks: Involve modifying network traffic or systems Types of Network Attacks Pivoting attack DoS or DDoS attack ARP poisoning Smurf attack ARP Pivoting It refers to a technique used by attackers or ethical hackers during penetration testing to move laterally within a network.
Pivoting Attack Using foothold Once inside the initial system, the attacker leverages its resources to further their reach.
Gaining foothold The attacker first needs to gain access to a single system within the network.
Moving laterally 2 1 3 With the compromised system as a pivot point, the attacker can then launch attacks on other machines on the network.
Denial of Service Attack Bomb with HTTP request Legitimate request of user cannot go through and fail A denial of service attack (DoS attack) is a cyber attack in which the perpetrator seeks to make a machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users by temporarily or indefinitely disrupting services of a host connected to the internet.
This can be accomplished by crashing the system, taking it offline, or sending an overwhelming number of requests that the machine cannot process.
SYN Flood Attack A SYN flood (half open attack) is a type of denial of service (DoS) attack that aims to make a server unavailable to legitimate traffic by consuming all available server resources.
By repeatedly sending initial connection request (SYN) packets, the attacker can overwhelm all available ports on a targeted server machine, causing the targeted device to respond to legitimate traffic sluggishly or not at all.
Distributed Denial of Service Attack In a typical DDoS attack, the hacker begins by exploiting a computer system and making it the DDoS master, which then identifies other vulnerable systems and gains control over them.
Their main aim is to prevent legitimate users from accessing a system or site.
Types of DDoS Attacks Network or volume centric Application layer These attacks use bots and botnets to flood the network layers with seemingly legitimate traffic, causing network operations to become extremely slow or to not work at all.
These attacks exhaust resources by consuming too much of the application's resources.
They target the layer managing HTTP and SMTP communication.
DoS vs. DDoS Attack DoS attack A hacker uses a single internet connection to either exploit a software vulnerability or flood a target with fake requests.
DDoS attack A hacker launches attacks from multiple connected devices that are distributed across the internet.
Smurf Attack It is a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack in which an attacker attempts to flood a targeted server with Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) packets.
Smurf Attack Flow Each host sends an ICMP response to the spoofed source address.
The request is sent to an intermediate IP broadcast network.
1 Smurf malware is used to generate a fake Echo request containing a spoofed source IP, which is the target server address.
2 3 The request is transmitted to all the network hosts on the network.
4 5 With enough ICMP responses forwarded, the target server is brought down.
What Is ARP?
Address Resolution Protocol or ARP is a crucial protocol in networking, especially on Local Area Networks (LANs), like your home or office network.
ARP helps translate logical IP addresses, which are the addresses used to identify devices on a network, to physical addresses.
These physical addresses are called Media Access Control (MAC) addresses and are baked into every network interface card (NIC).
ARP Functioning IP address 10.0.0.1 MAC address 00 B0 D0 63 C226 IP Address 10.0.0.2 MAC Address 00 B0 D0 63 C2 27 IP Address MAC Address 10.0.0.1 00 B0 D0 63 C2 26 10.0.0.2 00 B0 D0 63 C2 27 10.0.0.3 00 B0 D0 63 C2 28 10.0.0.4?
00 B0 D0 63 C2 29 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.4 IP Address 10.0.0.4 MAC Address 00 B0 D0 63 C2 29 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.4 Only 10.0.0.4 will respond back with its MAC address Arp table is updated with 10.0.04 MAC address ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.4 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.4 ARP request is broadcast to all systems and received by all four systems IP Address 10.0.0.3 MAC Address 00 B0 D063 C2 28 ARP Cache Poisoning ARP cache poisoning, also known as ARP spoofing, is a cyber attack that manipulates the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) for malicious purposes.
It disrupts normal network traffic by creating a false mapping between IP addresses and Media Access Control (MAC) addresses.
ARP Cache Poisoning IP Address 10.0.0.1 MAC Address 00 B0 D0 63 C2 26 IP Address MAC Address 10.0.0.1 00 B0 D0 63 C2 26 10.0.0.2 00 B0 D0 63 C2 27 10.0.0.3 00 B0 D0 63 C2 29 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.3 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.3 IP Address 10.0.0.4 MAC Address 00 B0 D0 63 C2 29 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.3 ARP query looking for MAC address of 10.0.0.3 Attacker responds with their MAC address, claiming to be 10.0.0.3, and poisons the cache ARP cache is poisoned with hackers MAC address IP Address 10.0.0.2 MAC Address 00 B0 D0 63C2 27 ARP request is broadcast to all systems and received by all four systems IP Address 10.0.0.3 MAC Address 00 B0D0 63 C2 28 Domain Name System Domain Name System (DNS) is a name service that provides a standardized system for naming TCP/IP hosts.
It is also a way to search for a host's IP address using the DNS name.
Domain Name System If DNS is used to look up the name abc.com, the user will get the IP address of the web host: 99.86.47.10. Who is abc.com?
Abc.com is 99.86.47.10.
DNS Features DNS uses a hierarchical naming structure.
DNS names are not case sensitive.
DNS names can be up to 63 characters.
DNS organizes domains into subdomains.
DNS Cache Poisoning DNS cache poisoning, also known as DNS spoofing, is a cyberattack that corrupts the data stored in the Domain Name System (DNS) cache.
Attackers tamper with the cache to provide false information, essentially giving you the wrong address when you look up a website.
DNS Cache Poisoning 1 2 Website IP address www.abc.com 11.0.0.2 replaced by fake DNS address by hacker 11.0.0.1 www.fake.com >11.0.0.1 The user tries to access abc.com 3 The users request will be redirected to fake.com instead of abc.com due to cache poisoning www.abc.com >11.0.0.2 4 The hacker poisons the DNS cache and replaces the original IP of abc.com with the IP address of the website fake.com DNS Attack An attacker disrupts the DNS server with lots of DNS requests, making it inaccessible.
Attackers flood DNS servers with a massive amount of valid but spoofed DNS request packets.
This overload of requests can slow down or even crash the DNS server, preventing legitimate users from resolving website names to IP addresses and accessing the internet.
DNS Amplification An attacker spoofs a DNS server and uses it to propagate false information about bogus websites.
Legitimate users are redirected toward these bogus websites.
Users are then bombed with excessive and useless information.
DNS Commands Command Function ipconfig/displaydns To view the DNS cache ipconfig/flushdns To clear the DNS cache dnslookup/ To check the DNS record on the DNS server, append the command with the name of the computer you want to check, for example, dnslookup computer 1 Steps to Protect Against DNS Attacks 1 Limit recursive queries 2 3 Force clients and partners to use HTTPS Test the DNS servers regularly for threats and vulnerabilities 6 7 Protect the relay server Secure DNS Resolver privacy and protection 4 5 Manage the DNS servers securely Use DNSSEC 8 Patch servers regularly Wi Fi A wireless network is a computer network that uses radio waves instead of cables to connect devices to each other.
This allows you to connect to the internet or other devices on the network without being tethered to a physical location.
Benefits of Wireless Network 01 02 03 Mobility: One can move around freely without having to worry about being tangled in cables.
Flexibility: One can easily set up a wireless network and expand.
Cost effective: One does not need to spend money on cables or installation fees.
Wireless Attacks Evil Twin Rogue AP Jamming An evil twin is a fraudulent WiFi access point that appears to be legitimate but is set up to eavesdrop on wireless communications.
A rogue access point is a wireless access point that has been installed on a secure network without explicit authorization from a local network administrator.
Jamming is a form of denial of service that specifically targets the radio spectrum aspect of wireless.
Wireless Attacks Wi Fi Protected Setup Wi Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a network security standard that was created to provide users with an easy method of configuring wireless networks, involving an eight digit PIN.
A successful attack can reveal the PIN and, subsequently, the WPA/WPA2 passphrase, allowing unauthorized parties to gain access to the network.
Disassociation War Driving Disassociation attacks are designed to disconnect a host from the wireless access point and network.
It is the act of searching for Wi Fi networks, usually from a moving vehicle, using a laptop or smartphone.
Disassociation attacks stem from the deauthentication frame that is in the IEEE 802.11 (Wi Fi) standard.
It involves slowly driving around an area with the goal of locating Wi Fi signals.
Controls to Secure Wi Fi Using encryption Using WPA2 authentication Using antivirus, antispyware, and firewall Turning off SSID Broadcast Using WPA3 authentication On Path Attack On path attacks, often referred to as man inthe middle or interception attacks, involve an adversary positioning themselves to intercept the communication between two parties.
They can intercept, modify, or eavesdrop on data being exchanged.
This silent intrusion enables cybercriminals to exploit sensitive information, launch further attacks, or even manipulate transactions undetected.
Man in the Middle Attack MITM generally occurs when an attacker is able to place himself in the middle of two other hosts that are communicating.
It is done by ensuring that all communication going to or from the target host is routed through the attackers host.
The attacker can observe all traffic before relaying it and modify or block it.
To the target host, it appears that communication is occurring normally since all expected replies are received.
Man in the Browser Attack The first element is a malware attack that places a Trojan element that can act as a proxy on the target machine.
This malware changes browser behavior through browser helper objects or extensions.
When a user connects to their bank, the malware recognizes the target (a financial transaction) and injects itself into the conversations stream.
When the user approves a transfer, the malware intercepts the users keystrokes and modifies them to perform a different transaction.
Man in the Browser Attack: Flow Extension notes data and modifies transaction User opens bank websites and fills out transaction forms 02 Malicious browser extension gets installed 03 04 Money gets transferred to the attacker 01 06 Computer gets infected by a virus 05 Extension modifies transaction receipts to remain undetected Credential Replay Attack A credential replay attack, also known as a playback or repeat attack, is a cyberattack where an attacker steals valid authentication data and reuses it to gain unauthorized access to a system or account.
One should refrain from using telnet or FTP and instead use SSH and secure version of protocols.
Credential Stuffing Attack Credential stuffing is a cyberattack that preys on people's tendency to reuse login credentials across multiple accounts.
Attackers gather usernames and passwords from data breaches on other websites or services.
Many people reuse the same login information (username or password) for multiple accounts.
If someone reuses their login information from a breached site, the attacker might be able to access their accounts on other sites.
Bash Shell Attack The Bash shell is a powerful tool found in most Unix like operating systems that can nonetheless be exploited for malicious purposes.
Attackers may use Bash scripts to execute unauthorized commands, compromise systems, or manipulate files.
Common tactics include privilege escalation, file manipulation, and system reconnaissance.
A Bash script can be identified by the.sh file extension.
Cryptographic Attacks Cryptographic Attack Cryptography attacks are attempts to bypass the security of cryptographic systems.
Attackers aim to steal information, tamper with data, or gain unauthorized access to systems protected by encryption.
These attacks exploit weaknesses in various components of a cryptographic system, including the cryptographic algorithm, encryption keys, cryptography protocols, and key management.
Downgrade Attacks This is a specific type of cryptographic attack where an attacker manipulates a communication to use a weaker encryption standard or protocol than originally intended.
A cryptography downgrade attack is also known as a version rollback attack or bidding down attack.
Types of Downgrade Attacks SSL/TLS downgrade attack An attacker exploits vulnerabilities in the communication between clients.
The attacker suggests using an older, less secure encryption method instead of the stronger ones that both parties support.
SSL stripping attack A malicious actor intercepts a secure HTTPS connection and downgrades it to an unsecured HTTP connection, enabling them to eavesdrop on sensitive information exchanged between a user and a website without detection.
Collision Attack A collision attack occurs when two different inputs produce the same hash value.
A good hash function should make collisions very unlikely.
It can be used for digital signature forgery.
If an attacker can find a collision for a signed message, they could potentially create a new message with the same hash value and forge a valid digital signature.
Rainbow tables, which are precomputed databases of hash collisions, can be used for cracking password hashes if the hash function used for password storage is vulnerable to collisions.
Birthday Attack It attempts to exploit the likelihood of two messages generating the same message digest using the same hash function.
It is based on the statistical probability that with 23 people in a room, there is more than a 50% chance that two people share the same birthday.
The birthday attack enables a malicious actor to generate different passwords that produce the same hash.
If the hash is matched, then the attacker knows the password, potentially granting unauthorized access to a user account or system.
Pass the Hash Attack This security concern affects older systems like Windows NT 4.0, where NTLM stored hashed user passwords locally with the MD4 algorithm.
Attackers could exploit weak hashing using methods like rainbow tables or tools like hashcat to perform hash collision attacks.
These attacks aim to recover user passwords from their hashed representations.
The weakness of NTLM is that all of the passwords are stored in the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS).
Password Attacks Secure Your Passwords Usernames and passwords are the most common methods for identification and authentication.
Issues with passwords Vulnerable Easily compromised Often reused Common password attack methods Dictionary attacks (e.g., Crack, John the Ripper) Brute force attacks (e.g., L0phtcrack) Hybrid attacks (combining dictionary and brute force) Trojan horse login programs (password stealing Trojans) Social engineering tactics Types of Password Attacks Online attacks Offline attacks Occurs directly on the login page of a website or service Target stolen data storage, not the login system Attackers use automated tools to guess passwords repeatedly Attackers access databases with hashed (scrambled) passwords via security breaches Limited by security measures like multi factor authentication, login throttling, and CAPTCHA verification Strong, unique passwords and regular password changes prevent this attack Common Password Based Attacks Electronic monitoring (replay attack) Intercepting network traffic to capture authentication data Dictionary attack Access the password file Targeting authentication Brute force attack Using automated tools to try all servers to reveal multiple users' possible password passwords combinations Password spraying Rainbow table Trying thousands of common Attempting a single password Using precomputed password words to find a matching across many usernames hashes to crack passwords password Using lists of common or leaked passwords quickly Application Attacks Application Attack It is a category of cyber threats that exploit vulnerabilities in software applications, targeting weaknesses in design, development, and implementation.
These attacks include: Compromising data Breaching user privacy Disrupting functionality Understanding and addressing these vulnerabilities better protects software applications from malicious attacks.
Injections These are a type of security vulnerability that arises when an application processes user input unsafely.
These attacks include: Exploiting user input Sending malicious data Forcing the application to perform unintended actions By understanding and mitigating injection vulnerabilities, we can enhance the security of our applications and protect sensitive information from being compromised.
Replay Attack These types of cyberthreats occur when an attacker intercepts and retransmits valid data transmissions.
These attacks include: Capturing valid data Resending intercepted data Gaining unauthorized access or permission Understanding and implementing countermeasures for replay attacks is crucial to maintaining the integrity and security of data transmissions.
Directory Traversal Directory traversal, also known as path traversal, is a web security vulnerability that attackers can exploit to access files or folders on a web server.
These attacks include: Tricking the server into giving unauthorized access Executing malicious code Exploiting weaknesses in how the web server retrieves documents Understanding and mitigating directory traversal vulnerabilities is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of web servers.
Privilege Escalation It occurs when a malicious user gains a higher level of permissions, access, or privileges than they have been assigned.
These attacks include: Exploiting administrative oversights Compromising credentials through methods such as keystroke capturing or password cracking Understanding and preventing privilege escalation is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of systems and protecting sensitive information.
Privilege Escalation Privilege escalation can be categorized into two main types: Horizontal privilege escalation Vertical privilege escalation Occurs when an attacker gains the rights and privileges of another user with similar privileges.
This action is referred to as an account takeover.
Occurs when an attacker gains access to an account and then elevates its privileges.
This is also known as a privilege elevation attack and involves moving from a lower level of privileged access to a higher one.
Source: https://www.beyondtrust.com/blog/entry/privilege escalation attack defense explained Mitigation Techniques to Secure the Enterprise Mitigation Strategies These are controls that organizations implement to protect themselves from various types of attacks.
They focus on implementing and understanding practices such as segmentation, access control (including ACLs and permissions), application allowlisting, isolation, patching, encryption, monitoring, and least privilege.
Mitigation Strategies Segmentation Access control Application allowlist Application blocklist Isolation Patching Mitigation Strategies Encryption Monitoring Least privilege access Configuration enforcement Decommissioning Hardening techniques Segregation, Segmentation, and Isolation Network segregation, segmentation, and isolation are some of the most effective controls an organization can implement to mitigate the effect of a network intrusion.
Network segmentation and isolation are fundamental security practices that involve dividing a large network into smaller, isolated subnetworks.
This approach enhances security, improves performance, and simplifies network management.
Types of Segregation or Segmentation Physical separation Logical (Virtual local area network VLAN) Air gaps Virtualization Types of Segregation or Segmentation Physical separation Separate physical equipment handles different classes of traffic, including separate switches, routers, and cables.
Virtualization Virtualization offers server isolation logically while still enabling physical hosting.
This is the most secure method of separating traffic, but also the most expensive.
Virtual machines enable the running of multiple servers on a single piece of hardware, maximizing enterprise machine utilization.
Organizations commonly have separate physical paths in the outermost sections of the network where connections to the Internet are made.
By definition, a virtual machine provides a certain level of isolation from the underlying hardware, operating through a hypervisor layer.
Types of Segregation or Segmentation Air gaps An air gap is a term used to describe the absence of any data path between two networks, which are only connected physically by a gap between them.
VLAN Physically or logically, there is no direct path between them.
It refers to isolating a secure network or computer from all other networks, particularly the Internet, to prevent unauthorized access.
VLANs group ports on the same or different switches to confine traffic within specified groups.
A VLAN isolates broadcast domains on a switch, functioning similarly to a router managing multiple broadcast domains.
It isolates segments, reduces routing broadcasts, and segregates department functions.
It can be segmented logically.
Micro Segmentation Micro segmentation creates security zones and is specifically designed to provide granular security controls within the same data center or cloud environment.
It isolates workloads from each other and defines individual security controls to secure them.
Benefits of Micro Segmentation Reduce network attack surface Improve breach containment By limiting an attackers movement from one potentially compromised workload to another By blocking unsanctioned activities and drastically improving threat detection and response times with real time alerts Strengthen regulatory compliance Achieve zero trust By isolating segments that specifically store regulated data, such as PII and PHI By creating and enforcing granular security policies through micro segmentation Zones Each sub network created through segmentation is called a zone.
These zones represent groups of devices or functionalities that have similar security needs.
Network zones are the building blocks of network segmentation.
They are essentially the individual sub networks created when a larger network is divided into smaller, more manageable sections.
Types of Network Zones Dividing a campus network or data center into zones implies that each zone has a different security configuration.
The main zones are as follows: Intranet Extranet Demilitarized zone Wireless Guest wireless Intranet An intranet functions like the internet for users but is entirely contained within and secured by the network's trusted area and managed by system and network administrators.
Typically referred to as campus or corporate networks, intranets are used every day in companies around the world.
Content on intranet web servers is not available over the internet to untrusted users.
Extranet An extranet is an extension of a selected portion of a companys intranet to external partners.
This allows a business to share information with customers, suppliers, partners, and other trusted groups while using a common set of Internet protocols to facilitate operations.
Extranets can utilize public networks to extend their reach beyond a companys internal network, typically secured using some form of security like a VPN.
Demilitarized Zones (DMZs) In cybersecurity, a DMZ is a physical or logical subnetwork that sits between an internal network and the Internet.
External DMZ It isolates your internal network from the public internet, reducing the risk of external threats compromising sensitive data.
It allows you to expose certain services to the internet, like web servers or email servers, without exposing your entire internal network.
Internal Functions of DMZs Different types of DMZ are used for different functions.
They host proxies or secure web gateways that allow employees access to web browsing and other internet services.
1 DMZs for servers provide remote access to the local network via a virtual private network (VPN).
2 They host communication servers, such as email, VoIP, and conferencing.
3 Multi tier DMZs isolate front end, middleware, and backend servers.
4 They host traffic for authorized cloud applications.
5 Wireless Network Wireless networking involves transmitting packetized data through a physical topology that does not rely on direct physical links.
Wireless networks should have separate zones.
Access to the internal zone can be controlled through MAC filtering.
Wireless access points should be configured to accept connections only from specific MAC addresses.
Guest Wireless Network Guest wireless networks should be separated from the internal network using a wireless firewall, as MAC address authentication is not feasible for guests.
Guest network users should only access the internet gateway for web browsing and email.
A captive portal can require authentication, payment for usage, or display policies and agreements.
Advantages of Segmentation Enhanced security Access control Segmentation makes it harder for attackers to access sensitive data or critical systems.
Access control can be implemented with granularity and more effectively.
Compliance requirement It helps in maintaining compliance, as some regulations demand separate segments for sensitive data.
Performance optimization Segmentation can lead to improved network performance by reducing broadcast domains and congestion.
Isolation of critical systems Scalability and agility Organizations often have critical systems that need extra protection.
Segmentation isolates these systems, safeguarding them.
Segmentation provides scalability and agility, allowing them to adapt to evolving needs without compromising security.
Access Control It is the process of allowing or restricting access to an organizations data, applications, network, or cloud based on its policies.
It ensures only authorized users access specific resources and is achieved through various means.
Implementing Access Control List The two controls used for implementing an access control list are: Access control lists (ACLs) Access levels Implementing Access Control Lists Access control list ACLs are vital tools that let administrators define rules to control network traffic.
ACL rules can grant or deny permissions to specific IP addresses, protocols, or ports, enhancing network access control.
Access levels Permissions are defined as rights to perform actions on a system.
They are typically associated with files, directories, or processes and determine who (or what) can read, write, or execute them.
Implementing permissions helps ensure that users and systems interact with only the resources necessary for their roles.
Application Allowlist It is a security measure used to restrict what software can run on a device or network.
It allows only authorized applications to execute, blocking any not on the list.
Application allowlisting is also known as application control or whitelisting.
Application Allowlist The process of creating, maintaining, and updating an application allowlist is as follows: Identify approved applications Respond to an incident Assess user and update impact the list Deploy and Build the centrally allowlist manage the solution Allowlist Attribute Security: Allows only trusted applications to run, preventing malware and other malicious software Improved management: Ensures only necessary software is installed and running, improving IT oversight Implementation: Utilizes security software or operating system settings to enforce application allowlisting Application Blacklist It is a list of software programs that are prohibited from running on a computer system or network.
It is a cybersecurity measure to block potentially harmful or unwanted applications.
Blacklist Attribute Security focus: Block known malware, including viruses, worms, and ransomware Productivity boost: Improve user productivity by limiting access to non work related programs Management control: Ensure compliance with security policies and software licenses Sandboxing It is a technique used to safely evaluate the threat in an isolated test environment (sandbox).
It provides effective protection against zero day attacks and advanced threats.
Suspicious email attachments are sent to a virtual sandbox for deep analysis of malicious activity.
Sandboxing Flow Isolation: A sandbox creates a segregated environment that mimics a real operating system, allowing suspicious programs to be executed without affecting the real system or network.
1 Protection: If the code is found to be malicious, it can be prevented from entering the real system, thus stopping a cyberattack in its tracks.
Analyzation: Security experts can then analyze the code's activity inside the sandbox.
2 Detonation: The suspicious code is then detonated within the sandbox, essentially running it and monitoring its behavior closely.
3 4 Threat detection: By observing the code's behavior, analysts can identify malicious activity, such as attempts to steal data, install malware, or damage the system.
5 Benefits of Sandboxing Proactive defense: Safe analysis: Improved detection rates: Sandboxing allows for the analysis of unknown or zero day threats that traditional signature based security might miss.
Security professionals can examine potentially risky code without putting the actual system or network at risk.
Sandboxes can uncover sophisticated malware that might bypass traditional security measures.
Patch Management Patch management is the process of applying patches to a system at a specified time using a well defined strategy and plan.
Effective patch management ensures that systems remain secure and up to date.
The types of patches are: Hotfixes Service packs Updates Small updates with a specific Tested and cumulative sets of Address non critical, non security purpose that alter the behavior all hotfixes, security updates, related bugs and provide fixes for of installed applications in a and critical updates specific problems limited manner Patch Management Activities Patch management involves several key activities to ensure systems are secure and up to date: Scheduling and prioritizing patches Testing patches Managing changes Installing and deploying patches Auditing and assessing Ensuring compliance Patch Management Cycle The following are the phases of an effective patch management cycle: Making new patch available Reviewing deployment Deploying patch Acquiring patch Testing patch Encryption Encryption is a cornerstone of data security that involves the conversion of data from plaintext into an unreadable format (ciphertext) that can only be deciphered with the appropriate decryption key.
Importance of encryption: Implements data protection: By implementing encryption, enterprises ensure that even if data is intercepted, it will remain indecipherable to unauthorized parties.
Safeguards confidentiality and integrity: Encryption safeguards the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.
Implementing robust encryption protocols is essential for protecting data from unauthorized access and ensuring its security.
Encryption as a Mitigation Strategy Security controls for stored data and data on the network are described below: Data at rest Implementing security controls such as encryption, hashing, compressing, strong passwords, labeling, marking, storage, and documentation Using encryption tools like selfencrypting USB drives and file and media encryption software Data in transit Applying security controls with cryptographic functions such as encryption and hashing Implementing end to end encryption to encrypt data while keeping routing information visible Using link encryption to encrypt both data and routing information Link Encryption vs. End to End Encryption Link encryption Performed by the service provider, not the user Encrypting all data along a communication path Encrypting user information, headers, trailers, addresses, and routing data Decrypting and re encrypting data packets at each node Example: A telephone circuit where user information, headers, trailers, addresses, and routing data are all encrypted End to end encryption Performed by the end user Keeping data encrypted while it is in transit to the remote end Encrypting all data except the headers, addresses, routing, and trailer information Not needing to decrypt and re encrypt packets at each hop because the headers and trailers are not encrypted Example: WhatsApp, enabling attackers to learn more about a captured packet and where it is headed Data in Transit: Best Practices Using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) Securing wireless networking with Wi Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA 2) Using Secure Shell (SSH) for the administration of network devices Encrypting messages before transmitting emails 1 7 2 3 6 Using Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) for secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) connectivity 5 4 Using Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) and Secure or Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME) for email encryption Using end to end encryption for intranet communication Homomorphic Encryption It is a powerful technique in cybersecurity that allows encrypted data to be processed securely.
Converts data into ciphertext that can be analyzed and worked with as if in its original form Enables complex mathematical operations on encrypted data without compromising security Allows computations on encrypted data, enhancing the security of user data handled by third parties Homomorphic encryption is a crucial advancement in data security, providing a balance between data utility and privacy.
Confidential Computing It employs cryptography to protect data in use when it is processed in a cloud environment.
Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) Secure enclave Malware protection Distributed workloads A TEE is used to decrypt data only when an authorized program attempts to access it.
The TEE acts as a secure enclave, enforcing access controls to ensure only authorized applications can call for the protected data.
If a malware application attempts to access data in the TEE, it is denied access because it cannot view the keys needed to decrypt the data.
Confidential computing supports distributed workloads, such as edge computing, and can be deployed on edge devices to counteract failures of physical access controls.
Monitoring Monitoring is essential for maintaining the security and integrity of network and system activities.
Purpose: Keeping a watchful eye on network and system activities, constantly scanning for any anomalies or suspicious behavior.
Detection: Ensuring that any deviations from the norm are swiftly detected and addressed.
Logs and Alerts: Analyzing logs, traffic patterns, and system behavior to aid in threat detection and alert the security operations center.
Security Information and Event Management It is a comprehensive term encompassing software products and services designed to enhance cybersecurity.
The primary functions of SIEM technology include: Combining Security Information Management (SIM) and Security Event Management (SEM): Merging software products and services that integrate SIM and SEM Providing real time analysis: Offering real time analysis of security alerts generated by network hardware and applications SIM SEM SIEM Security Information and Event Management SIEM is composed of two primary components, each with distinct roles in cybersecurity.
These components are: Security Event Management (SEM): Manages real time monitoring, event correlation, notifications, and console views Security Information Management (SIM): Provides long term storage, analysis, and reporting of log data SIEM Functionality SIEM systems provide a range of critical functionalities to enhance cybersecurity.
These functionalities include: Automated response Data aggregation Forensic analysis Correlation Retention Alerting Compliance Dashboards Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) It is a stack of compatible software programs that enable organizations to: Collect and aggregate data: Gather vast amounts of security data and alerts from a wide range of sources Automate responses: Build automated processes to respond to low level security events Standardize procedures: Standardize threat detection and remediation procedures SOAR Components SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) comprises several key components that work together to enhance cybersecurity operations: Security orchestration Integrates internal and external tools through custom integrations and APIs Connects systems like vulnerability scanners, endpoint protection, and firewalls Security automation Ingests and analyzes data to create automated processes, replacing manual tasks Uses AI and machine learning to prioritize threats and automate responses Security response Provides a unified view for planning, managing, and reporting security actions Facilitates collaboration and threat intelligence sharing Includes post incident activities like case management and reporting Need for SOAR in SIEM Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) is essential for enhancing the capabilities of SIEM tools.
The key reasons for the necessity of SOAR include: Regular tuning Consistent fine tuning Differentiating between anomalous and normal activity Preventing overwhelming security teams with alerts Dedicated staff Managing rules to avoid confusing normal and suspicious activities Data ingestion Handling external data feeds beyond traditional logs Configuration Enforcement It ensures that digital systems and assets adhere to secure, predefined settings to minimize vulnerabilities.
Key techniques include: Standardization Vulnerability mitigation Compliance adherence Automation Decommissioning It is the process of retiring assets that are no longer needed within an organizations infrastructure.
Important aspects to consider are: Retiring assets: Involves removing legacy devices running obsolete operating systems or outdated hardware Data sanitization: Ensures that any sensitive data stored on these devices is properly sanitized to prevent data breaches Documentation It is crucial in the decommissioning process to ensure a comprehensive and accountable record of all retired assets.
Key steps include: 1 2 3 Updated asset register: Detailed records: Compliance and auditing: Keep an updated inventory of all assets, including decommissioned items Document dates, reasons, and responsible parties for the decommissioning process Maintain records for compliance and auditing purposes Decommissioning Process Effective decommissioning involves proper sanitization methods to securely dispose of paper and media assets.
Paper sanitization Media sanitization Best method: Burning Best method: Shredding (e.g., metal hard drives) Second best: Pulping (soaking in water and mechanically processing) Least effective: Shredding (use a cross cut shredder for better results) Second best: Pulverizing with a sledgehammer Least secure: Degaussing (erasing magnetic fields) Hardening Hardening strengthens a system or network to reduce security risks and safeguard against cyber threats.
Key techniques include: Encryption Endpoint detection and response Host based IPS Disabling ports and protocols Host based firewall Different Types of Hardening Techniques System hardening Secure the operating system by disabling unnecessary services, closing unused ports, enabling security features, and enforcing strong password policies Network hardening Secure the network with firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and network segmentation Application hardening Secure applications by removing unnecessary features, configuring security settings, and keeping applications up to date with security patches Database hardening Secure databases with access control, data encryption, and regular backups End Point Detection and Response Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a cybersecurity solution designed to monitor endpoints for malicious activity and respond to threats in real time.
Real time monitoring: Uses AI and ML technologies to detect and respond to threats Comprehensive coverage: Monitors and protects infrastructure and network endpoints, including computers, servers, and mobile devices Functions of EDR It provides a comprehensive suite of functionalities to enhance cybersecurity.
Key functions include: Continuous monitoring 01 Behavioral analysis 02 Threat detection 03 Alert generations 04 Response and remediation 05 Forensics analysis 06 Real time threat mitigations 07 Host Based Firewall Host based firewalls are software firewalls that run on individual devices to enhance security.
Important aspects include: Monitoring and control: Monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic at the device level to prevent unauthorized access and malicious activities Remote protection: Protect laptops when users are working away from home Host Based Intrusion Prevention System HIPS is a security solution designed to protect individual computer systems or hosts from unauthorized access, malicious activities, and cyber threats.
Important aspects include: Host level operation: Monitors and analyzes the activities and behaviors of applications and processes running on a computer Comprehensive protection: Guards against unauthorized access and malicious activities Disabling Unused Ports Disabling unused ports and protocols is a proactive measure to reduce the attack surface of a network.
Key benefits include: Reduced attack surface: Minimizes the avenues through which malicious actors can infiltrate by closing off unused or unnecessary communication pathways Implementing Public Key Infrastructure Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a system administrator, you are required to demonstrate the configuration and management of a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
This involves installing and configuring Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS) on Windows Server 2022.
The goal is to establish a secure and efficient PKI environment for issuing, managing, and validating digital certificates within the organization.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 04_Implementing_Public_Key_Infrastructure Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install certificate services 2.
Configure active directory certificate services Generating a Web Server Certificate Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a system administrator, you are tasked with demonstrating the process of generating and managing web server certificates using Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
This includes installing Internet Information Services (IIS) on Windows Server 2022 and configuring it to serve a secure web page.
The objective is to ensure the secure transmission of data between the server and clients by utilizing SSL/TLS certificates.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 05_Generating_a_Web_Server_Certificate Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install Internet Information Services (IIS) 2.
Create a secure website Key Takeaways Understanding various threat actors and their motivations is essential for anticipating and countering security breaches effectively.
Recognizing common threat vectors and attack surfaces enhances defensive strategies and helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
Identifying different types of vulnerabilities within systems is crucial for recognizing potential security weaknesses and implementing appropriate mitigation measures.
Analyzing indicators of malicious activity allows for swift responses to security incidents, thereby minimizing potential damage and maintaining system integrity.
Implementing effective mitigation techniques ensures robust security for enterprise operations.
CompTIA Sec + Domain 03: Security Architecture Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Compare and contrast security implications of different architecture models to evaluate their effectiveness in various scenarios Apply security principles to secure enterprise infrastructure by implementing best practices and methodologies Compare and contrast concepts and strategies to protect data, ensuring optimal safeguarding of sensitive information Understand the importance of resilience and recovery in security architecture to maintain operational stability and business continuity Security Implications of Different Architecture Models What Is Security Architecture?
Security architecture is a critical component of an organization's information security strategy.
It serves as a blueprint to safeguard data, applications, and systems from cyber threats.
Core aspects: Principles and processes: Outlining the fundamental methods and procedures that form the foundation of security operations Technologies: Describing the tools and technologies that protect against cyberattacks, ensuring data and application safety Protection mechanisms: Focusing on the specific controls that preserve the integrity of an organizations systems Securing the Network Network security is essential for safeguarding an organization's data and resources.
A comprehensive, multilayered strategy is implemented to ensure robust protection, incorporating the following key technologies: Firewalls Access control lists Intrusion detection systems Intrusion prevention systems Security information and event management Monitor and filter network traffic, acting as barriers based on predefined rules Specify which users or system processes are granted access to certain resources Detect and report potential threats in real time Block and prevent identified threats Collects and analyzes data from various sources to identify and correlate security events, providing real time alerts Securing the Servers Securing servers is crucial for protecting sensitive data and maintaining overall system health.
Implement these key practices to ensure robust server security: Access controls and host firewalls: Protect servers using strict access controls, host based firewalls, and consistent hardening procedures Regular patching: Maintain security and functionality through regular software and system patching Frequent backups and monitoring: Ensure data integrity with regular backups and implement thorough logging and monitoring mechanisms Employee education: Enhance security by educating employees on best practices, including password hygiene and phishing awareness Securing the Hosts Securing individual devices, also known as hosts, on your network is a critical layer of defense in an overall network security strategy.
To protect these devices effectively: Endpoint security solutions Use antivirus software, endpoint detection and response tools, and mobile device management systems to guard against malware and unauthorized access.
Multifactor authentication Enhance security with multiple forms of verification to protect against unauthorized entry Cloud Computing Cloud computing leverages the internet to share and utilize computing resources remotely.
This approach includes: Resource sharing Utilizes the internet to distribute computing resources efficiently Remote servers Employ servers on the internet to store, manage, and process data, eliminating the need for local servers or personal computers Cloud Computing Models Broad Network Access Rapid Elasticity Measured Service On Demand Self Service Essential Characteristics Resource Pooling Software as a Service (SaaS) Public Platform as a Service (Paas) Private Hybrid Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) Community Delivery Models Deployment Models Cloud Computing Characteristics Cloud computing offers several key characteristics that enhance its functionality and efficiency.
On demand access The provider abstracts resources and collects them into a pool, portions of which can be allocated to different consumers, typically based on policies.
Multitenancy Key benefits include: Optimized resource usage.
Flexibility in resource allocation.
Cost savings through shared resources.
Measured services Resource pooling Rapid elasticity Broad network access Cloud Computing Characteristics Rapid elasticity allows consumers to expand or contract the resources they use from the pool, enabling provisioning and de provisioning of resources, often completely automatically.
On demand access Key benefits Scalability: Scale resources up or down as needed.
Efficiency: Optimize resource usage.
Automation: Automate provisioning and deprovisioning.
Cost Effectiveness: Minimize costs by using resources only when needed.
Performance: Ensure consistent performance with dynamic adjustments.
Resource pooling Multitenancy Measured services Rapid elasticity Broad network access Cloud Computing Characteristics In broad network access, all resources are available over a network, without any need for direct physical access.
On demand access Key benefits Resource pooling Multitenancy Accessibility: Access resources from anywhere.
Compatibility: Use various devices to connect.
Convenience: No physical proximity needed.
Scalability: Connect more users and devices easily.
Efficiency: Improve productivity with remote access.
Rapid elasticity Measured services Broad network access Cloud Computing Characteristics In measured services, customers are charged for what they are using or consuming.
On demand access Key benefits Resource pooling Multitenancy Transparency: Clear understanding of usage.
Cost control: Pay only for used resources.
Efficiency: Optimize resource allocation.
Monitoring: Real time usage tracking.
Budgeting: Predict and manage costs.
Rapid elasticity Measured services Broad network access Cloud Computing Characteristics Multiple independent instances of one or multiple applications operate in a shared environment.
On demand access Key benefits Resource pooling Multitenancy Resource sharing: Efficient use of resources by sharing among multiple tenants.
Cost savings: Reduced costs through shared infrastructure.
Isolation: Secure separation of data and applications for each tenant.
Scalability: Easily scale to accommodate more tenants.
Maintenance: Simplified management and updates.
Rapid elasticity Measured services Broad network access Cloud Computing Characteristics On demand access allows consumers to provision resources from the pool using on demand self service.
On demand access Key benefits Self service: Consumers manage resources themselves.
Independence: No need to talk to a human administrator.
Speed: Instant provisioning of resources.
Flexibility: Adjust resources based on current needs.
Control: Full control over resource management.
Resource pooling Multitenancy Rapid elasticity Measured services Broad network access Categorization of Cloud: Deployment Categories Cloud deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users.
One common model is the public cloud, which offers several key characteristics: Public cloud The cloud infrastructure is made available to the general public or a large industry group and is owned by an organization selling cloud services.
Categorization of Cloud: Deployment Categories Cloud deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users.
One common model is the private cloud.
Private cloud The cloud infrastructure is operated solely for a single organization.
It can be managed by the organization or a third party and may be located on premises or off premises.
This model offers enhanced security and control, ideal for businesses with strict regulatory requirements.
Categorization of Cloud: Deployment Categories Cloud deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users.
Another model is the community cloud.
Community cloud Cloud infrastructure is shared by several organizations and supports a specific community that has shared concerns (for example, mission, security requirements, policy, or compliance considerations).
It might be managed by the organizations or by a third party and can be located on premises or off premises.
Categorization of Cloud: Deployment Categories Cloud deployment models define how cloud services are made available to users.
A flexible model is the hybrid cloud.
Hybrid cloud Cloud infrastructure is a composition of two or more clouds (private, community, or public) that remain unique entities.
Categorization of Cloud: Service Categories Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides access to a resource pool of fundamental computing infrastructures.
Key features include: Resource pool: Access to fundamental computing infrastructures such as compute, network, or storage.
SPI tiers: These are also called the SPI tiers.
Examples: Amazon EC2, Google Compute Engine, and HP Cloud.
Categorization of Cloud: Service Categories Platform as a Service (PaaS) is a category of cloud computing services that provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications.
Key features include: Simplified infrastructure: It doesnt have the complexity of building and maintaining the infrastructure typically associated with developing and launching an app.
Examples: Google App Engine, Windows Azure Cloud Services.
Categorization of Cloud: Service Categories Software as a Service (SaaS) is a full application thats managed and hosted by the provider.
Key features include: Provider management: It is a full application thats managed and hosted by the provider.
Consumer access: Consumers access it with a web browser, mobile app, or a lightweight client app.
Examples: Google Apps, Microsoft Office 365.
Categorization of Cloud: Service Categories Security as a Service involves outsourcing security functions to a vendor, offering advantages in scale, costs, and speed.
Key features include: Leveraging a vendor's scale, cost benefits, and speed advantages for security functions Managing a complex range of technical specialties to provide appropriate risk reductions in todays enterprise Security as a Service (SaaS): Services, Benefits, and Concerns Security as a Service (SaaS) offers a range of services, benefits, and concerns that organizations should consider.
Key points include: Services Proxy services Identity management SIEMIDS and IPS Web application firewall Benefits Concerns Cloud computing benefits Staffing and expertise Intelligence sharing Deployment flexibility Scaling and cost Lack of visibility Regulation differences Handling of regulated data Changing providers Data leakage Responsibility Matrix /Shared Responsibility Model A shared responsibility model is a cloud security framework that describes the security responsibilities of the cloud provider and the cloud customer.
The cloud provider is responsible for the security of the underlying infrastructure, while customers are responsible for their own areas of control.
The contract (SLA) between the cloud customer and provider clarifies individual and shared responsibilities.
The cloud customer is ultimately responsible for compliance and data security.
Shared Responsibilities of Cloud Services This table outlines the shared responsibilities between enterprises and cloud service providers (CSP) across different service models: IaaS Security governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Data security Application security Platform security Infrastructure security Physical security PaaS SaaS Enterprise responsibility Shared responsibility CSP responsibility Hybrid Cloud A hybrid cloud is an architecture that integrates private and public cloud services, facilitating data and application sharing between them.
Core aspect Flexibility and scalability: A hybrid cloud provides flexibility, scalability, and diverse deployment options but demands careful consideration of data integration, network connectivity, security, compliance, and cost.
Control and efficiency: A well architected hybrid cloud offers the control of a private cloud combined with the efficiency of a public cloud.
Challenges in Hybrid Cloud Data Integrations Hybrid clouds allow seamless data sharing between private and public cloud environments, which can create complexities in data synchronization, consistency, and governance.
Proper data integration techniques are essential to ensure seamless data flow and accessibility.
Network connectivity A hybrid cloud demands robust network connectivity to enable seamless communication between private and public environments.
Challenges include maintaining secure and fast connections, minimizing latency, and implementing consistent networking policies.
Security Security considerations in a hybrid cloud can be complex as data and applications may reside in different environments, each with unique security protocols.
Unified security policies, encryption, and identity management are essential to safeguard data across all domains.
Challenges in Hybrid Cloud Compliance Cost Portability Regulatory compliance can be challenging due to differing legal requirements in public and private environments.
Careful alignment of privacy policies and compliance controls across the hybrid infrastructure is crucial.
While a hybrid cloud provides flexibility, managing multiple environments can increase complexity and cost.
Effective cost management requires understanding the pricing structure of public cloud services and the overhead of maintaining private infrastructure.
Ensure your workloads can be easily migrated between cloud platforms with minimal reconfiguration.
This flexibility gives you more control over your cloud environment.
Third Party Vendors Third party vendors are external suppliers or service providers engaged by organizations to deliver specific products or services.
They are used because of their ability to provide expertise and services that complement an organizations core capabilities.
This alliance often requires granting these external entities varying degrees of access to sensitive systems, data, or infrastructure, resulting in many security risks.
Security Risks From Third Party Vendors Information security or data privacy Insufficient experience and controls to protect information from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or destruction.
Business continuity Inability to maintain services due to business disruption (e.g., ineffective redundancy procedures).
Financial viability Contract compliance Legal or regulatory Lack of financial security to provide services at acceptable levels.
Inconsistency with policies, procedures, laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
Lack of necessary licenses to operate and expertise to remain compliant with laws and regulations.
Infrastructure as a Code Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is a method of managing and provisioning IT infrastructure through machine readable code files instead of manual configuration or graphical interfaces.
Imagine your infrastructure (servers, networks, storage) as code.
Instead of manually setting up everything, you write instructions in a code file that tells the system what to create and how.
IaC defines and manages IT infrastructure through machinereadable code or scripts.
Popular tools: Terraform, Ansible, AWS CloudFormation, Chef.
Advantages of IaC Security: Enforces consistent security policies across infrastructure Version control: Track changes and revert to previous configurations Speed and agility: Allows you to provision and deploy infrastructure quickly and easily 1 3 5 2 Automation: Deploy and manage infrastructure consistently 4 Repeatable: Spin up identical environments easily for testing or production Components of IaC Provisioning tools: Interpret the code and interact with cloud providers or on premises infrastructure.
2 Version control system: Code files: Written in languages such as Terraform, Ansible, or Chef.
1 3 Track changes and manage different versions of configurations.
Common Use Cases DevOps pipeline Automates infrastructure provisioning and management within CI/CD pipelines 01 Bare metal deployments: Manages on premises servers and network devices Disaster recovery 04 02 03 Cloud deployments: Spins up resources on cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP Rebuilds infrastructure in case of outages Monolithic Architecture Refers to a traditional method of building applications Describes a software style that uses a single code base for multiple business functions Encompasses all software functionalities in a single, self contained unit Develops as a single component, with all processes tightly coupled and running as a single service Resembles a giant rock with everything carved into it, illustrating a monolithic application Characteristics of Monolithic Architecture 01 Single Codebase: The entire application's code, including the user interface (UI), business logic, and data access layers, is written and stored together in one place.
02 Tightly Coupled Components: Different parts of the application are highly dependent on each other, meaning a change in one component can potentially impact other parts.
03 Centralized Deployment: The entire application is deployed as a single unit, so any updates or changes require redeploying the entire application.
Microservices Composes a single application from many loosely coupled and independent services in microservices architecture Breaks down an application into smaller, self contained services that communicate with each other through well defined APIs Handles a specific business capability, such as user authentication, payment processing, or data retrieval, with each microservice Operates independently, allowing developers to work on these services separately without disrupting the entire application Advantages of Microservices Agility Empowers organizations to quickly respond to changing business needs Easy Maintenance Simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting by isolating services, confining issues to specific areas Scalability Faster development Enables independent scaling to meet demand, ensuring optimal performance during traffic spikes Features smaller code bases and independent development cycles, accelerating development and reducing time to market Improved Fault Tolerance Independence Enhances fault tolerance, preventing cascading failures across services Allows for the independent deployment of individual components Uber : Case Study Uber, like most startups, initially built their application with a monolithic architecture.
As Uber expanded worldwide, they faced issues with scalability, performance, and application stability.
Monolithic architecture combines all components into a single, popular single tiered software application.
These components include the client side user interface, server side business logic, data access layer, and integrations.
Source: https://hackernoon.com/microservices are hard an invaluable guide to microservices 2d06bd7bcf5d And https://dzone.com/articles/microservice architecture learn build and deploy a Uber : Case Study These components are interconnected and interdependent, which means that when one component needs to be updated, changes must be made to the entire application.
The failure of one component can bring down the entire system.
As the number of services increases, integrating and managing the entire product can become complicated.
To avoid such problems, Uber decided to break down its monolithic architecture into multiple applications, transitioning to a microservices architecture.
Source: https://hackernoon.com/microservices are hard an invaluable guide to microservices 2d06bd7bcf5d And https://dzone.com/articles/microservice architecture learn build and deploy a Uber : Case Study Microservices divide and distribute the application workload, providing stable and scalable services.
Microservices decentralize data storage by managing their own data stores.
Uber manages each microservice individually, removing dependencies between features.
Uber benefits from shifting its architecture from monolithic to microservices.
Source: https://hackernoon.com/microservices are hard an invaluable guide to microservices 2d06bd7bcf5d And https://dzone.com/articles/microservice architecture learn build and deploy a Microservices The figure illustrates the difference between a monolithic architecture and a microservice architecture: UI UI Business logic Microservice Data access layer Microservice Microservice Microservice Microservice Microservice Monolithic architecture Microservice architecture Source: https://hackernoon.com/microservices are hard an invaluable guide to microservices 2d06bd7bcf5d Monolithic vs Microservices S.No Feature Monolithic architecture Microservices architecture 1 Codebase Single, unified codebase Multiple, independent codebases Entire application deployed together Individual services deployed independently 2 Deployment 3 Scalability Difficult to scale Individual services can be scaled independently 4 Maintenance Changes can be complex Easier to modify individual services 5 Technology Limited to chosen technologies Different services can use different technologies 6 Communication Simple in memory calls Can involve API calls, message queues Serverless Computing Allows developers to build and run application code without provisioning or managing servers.
Enables on demand execution of code without managing server infrastructure.
Lets cloud service providers automatically provision, manage, and scale the resources required to execute the code.
Serverless Computing Attributes Event driven Pay per use Code executes in response to specific events, such as an HTTP request, a database change, or a file upload, without the need to provision or manage servers.
Pay only for the resources your code consumes while its executing, making it a cost effective solution for applications with variable traffic.
Automatic scaling The cloud provider automatically scales resources based on demand, eliminating the need for manual server scaling.
Focus on code Focus on writing and deploying your code without worrying about the underlying infrastructure.
Serverless Computing Advantages Reduced costs Increase scalability Only paying for what we are using can lead to significant cost savings.
Serverless applications can automatically scale to meet demand, eliminating the need for manual scaling.
Faster deployment Improved maintainability Serverless computing allows you to develop and deploy applications faster by removing the need to manage servers.
There is no need to worry about patching or maintaining servers, which can simplify application maintenance.
Network Infrastructure Network infrastructure refers to hardware and software resources that facilitate network connectivity, communication, operations, and management within an enterprise network.
It comprises networking devices, protocols, and routing mechanisms that function together in an interconnected environment.
It provides communication paths and services between users, processes, applications, and external networks, enabling devices and components to connect and interact within both internal and external environments.
Secure Network Design A secure network design provisions the assets and services underpinning business workflows with the following properties: Integrity 2 Confidentiality 1 3 Availability Network Devices: Router Wireless access point A router is a device used to connect two different networks and route packets between them.
Network intrusion prevention system Router It is set up as the default gateway when configuring a host machine.
It determines the best path to the destination.
Web application firewall Switch Load balancer Network Devices: Switch Wireless access point A switch is a device that connects devices on a network and forwards data packets to their intended destinations.
Network intrusion prevention system Router Unlike routers, which connect different networks, switches operate at Layer 2 (data link layer) of the OSI model and focus on communication within a single network segment.
Web application firewall Switch Load balancer Network Devices: Load Balancer Wireless access point A load balancer is a device or software application that distributes incoming network traffic across multiple servers or resources.
Network intrusion prevention system Router It acts as a traffic cop, ensuring no single server is overloaded while others remain idle.
It helps to improve overall application performance, scalability, and availability.
Web application firewall Switch Load balancer Network Devices: Web Application Firewall Wireless access points WAF stands for Web Application Firewall.
It's a security tool designed to protect web applications from cyberattacks.
Network intrusion prevention system Router It act as a shield that sits in front of your web application, filtering and monitoring incoming traffic to block malicious requests and prevent attacks.
Web application firewall Switch Load balancer Network Devices: NIPS Wireless access point Monitors the network, protecting it against attacks by continuously checking for signs of malicious activity and taking action to prevent or mitigate them.
Network intrusion prevention system Router Web application firewall Switch Analyzes all incoming and outgoing network traffic, looking for suspicious patterns or signatures that might indicate an attack.
Load balancer Network Devices: Wireless Access Point Wireless access point Network intrusion prevention system Router A WAP is a device that enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network, providing Wi Fi connectivity.
Web application firewall Switch Load balancer Network Isolation or Segmentation Network isolation divides a computer network into subnets to limit communication between devices, enhancing security, performance, and manageability.
Types of Segregation or Segmentation Physical separation Airgaps Logical (VLAN) subnets Physical Isolation Physical Separation Air gap Physical segregation involves using separate physical equipment to handle different classes of traffic, such as separate switches, routers, and cables.
Air gaps, a term familiar to network security This method is the most secure way to separate traffic, but it is also the most expensive.
There is no direct physical or logical path Organizations often implement separate physical paths in the outermost sections of the network where connections to the internet are established.
professionals, refer to the isolation of two networks that are not connected in any way except via a physical air gap between them.
between them.
It involves isolating a secure network or computer from all other networks, particularly the internet, to prevent unauthorized access.
Types of Segregation or Segmentation VLAN Subnetting Subnetting is the process of breaking down a network into smaller networks called subnets.
This can provide a higher level of security by reducing the broadcast domain, which is the area where devices can broadcast to each other.
Imagine a fast spreading virus.
Using subnets can help contain the virus and prevent it from affecting too many devices.
Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) allow the ports on the same or different switches to be grouped so that the traffic is confined to the members of that group.
A VLAN creates an isolated broadcast domain, similar to a router with multiple broadcast domains.
VLANs aid in segmenting networks, reducing routing broadcasts, and segregating department functions.
They can be logically segmented.
Software Defined Network Initial Concept Control plane Management plane The control plane is the part of a network that carries signaling traffic and is responsible for routing.
The management plane, which carries administrative traffic, is considered a subset of the control plane.
Data plane The data plane (or forwarding plane) contains the traffic that the network exists to carry.
How SDN different from Traditional Networking Software defined networking Traditional networking In conventional networking, all three planes (control plane, data plane, and management plane) are implemented in the firmware of routers and switches.
It decouples the data and control planes, removes the control plane from network hardware, and implements it in software instead.
This enables programmatic access and, as a result, makes network administration much more flexible.
Software Defined Networking (SDN) Software Defined Networking(SDN) allows network administrators to programmatically initialize, control, change, and manage network behavior dynamically via open interfaces and abstraction of lower level functionality.
SDN aims to separate the infrastructure layer (hardware and hardware based settings) from the control layer (network services for managing data transmission).
Software Defined Networking (SDN) The SDN architecture is illustrated below : Application layer Business applications API Control layer SDN control software Network services Control data plan interface (such as openflow) Infrastructure layer Network device API API Network device Network device Network device Network device Software Defined Networking (SDN) The SDN architecture concept is given below : Application layer Applications, running on physical or virtual hosts Control layer Northbound APIs Network controller Infrastructure layer Programmable switches Southbound API On Premise On premise refers to the network infrastructure that physically resides within an organization's own facilities, as opposed to cloud based network resources.
Essentially, it's your own private network, not relying on external data centers.
It provides organizations with complete control over their infrastructure and software stack.
On Premise Benefits Physical control You have full physical control over network hardware, including firewalls, switches, and routers, enabling extensive customization and security control.
Management considerations Security benefits Network isolation techniques like firewalls and VLANs can create a more secure environment for sensitive data within your infrastructure.
2 1 3 Managing and maintaining the on premises network infrastructure is your responsibility, necessitating dedicated IT staff with the necessary expertise.
On Premise Use Cases For industries with stringent regulations like finance, healthcare, or government, on premise infrastructure provides the ultimate control over data security.
Organizations with real time applications or high bandwidth workloads may benefit from on premise networks.
Local servers can offer lower latency and more predictable performance than cloud based solutions.
Some organizations might have concerns about data privacy or intellectual property in a cloud environment.
An on premise network keeps all data and resources physically located within the organization's control, potentially reducing these concerns.
For organizations with predictable network usage and a large existing IT staff, on premise networks can be cost effective in the long run.
Centralized System A centralized system is characterized by consolidating control, data storage, and processing in a single location or server.
In a centralized system, only the IT department can add a user to the system, and HR is solely responsible for onboarding new employees.
This approach provides uniformity and consistency in decision making and offers a single point for monitoring and control.
In enterprise architectures, centralized systems simplify management but pose the challenge of a single point of failure.
Decentralized Systems In a decentralized system, there's no single central authority making decisions for everyone.
Decentralized systems distribute data and control across multiple locations, servers, or nodes.
A decentralized approach offers higher resilience and flexibility, allowing for independent operations, greater autonomy, and faster access times.
Decentralized systems may bring complexity in management, potential inconsistency, and the need for more robust coordination mechanisms.
Centralized vs Decentralized Systems S.no Feature Centralized system Decentralized system 1 Control Single authority Distributed network 2 Efficiency Fast decisions Slower decisions (consensus needed) 3 Security Single point of failure More robust 4 Transparency Potentially opaque Can be more transparent Virtualization Virtualization is a technology that enables running multiple operating systems side by side on the same processing hardware.
It adds a software layer between the operating system and the underlying computer hardware.
Application App OS App OS App OS Operating system Hypervisor Traditional architecture Virtual architecture Its benefits include efficiency, higher availability, and lower costs.
Hypervisor A hypervisor is a software that is installed to virtualize a given computer.
Host machine: A computer on which a hypervisor is installed.
Guest machine: Every virtual machine created by the hypervisor.
Type 1 hypervisors run directly on the host machines hardware.
Example: Microsoft Hyper V hypervisor, App App App App OS OS OS OS Hypervisor Hypervisor Hardware Operating System VMware ESX/ESXi Type 2 hypervisors run within an existing operating system environment.
Example: VMware workstation, VirtualBox Hardware Type 1 Bare metal Type 2 Hosted Virtualization Vulnerabilities VM sprawl Insecure interfaces and API The ease of deploying VMs can lead to VM sprawl, a situation in which an organization loses track of the number and state of its VMs.
Virtualization platforms often provide various management interfaces, which, if not properly secured, can be a weak link in the security chain.
Resource exhaustion Data leakage VMs share the resources of the host machine.
An attacker could deliberately overload a VM, causing resource exhaustion that affects all VMs on the host.
In multi tenant environments, where multiple parties use the same physical hardware, misconfigurations can lead to data leakage between VMs.
Controls for Virtualization Vulnerabilities Regular patching: Consistently updating the hypervisor and VM operating systems is crucial to patch known vulnerabilities and reduce exploitation risks.
Resource allocation: Implementing resource quotas for VMs can prevent resource exhaustion attacks.
For example, setting a CPU usage limit ensures no single VM can monopolize the host's resources.
Access control and monitoring: Implement robust access control, like multifactor authentication, for hypervisor access.
Continuous monitoring can also detect unauthorized activities in real time.
Encryption and network segmentation: Encrypt data at rest and in transit.
Network segmentation can isolate VMs handling sensitive data, making lateral movement by attackers harder.
Policy and governance: Establishing a governance policy for VM lifecycle management can prevent VM sprawl by setting guidelines for when VMs should be created, maintained, and decommissioned.
Containerization Docker Host operating system Infrastructure Source: https://tsa.com/top 5 benefits of containerization/ App F App E App D AppCC App App B App A Containerized applications Containerization is packaging an application with its configuration files, libraries, and dependencies, ensuring it runs efficiently and bug free across different computing environments.
A container is a lightweight, standalone executable package that includes everything needed to run an application: code, runtime, system tools, and libraries.
Containerization: Benefits Enhanced productivity Run anywhere Scale quickly Source: https://tsa.com/top 5 benefits of containerization/ Simple and faster deployment Increased portability Docker Docker is an open source containerization platform used to create, deploy, and manage containers.
Container 1 Container 2 Container 3 Container 4 APP 1 APP 2 APP 3 APP 4 Bin/Lib Bin/Lib Bin/Lib Bin/Lib It provides a simple and efficient way for developers to package and run applications in containers.
It streamlines the delivery of applications by isolating them from infrastructure.
Docker engine Docker has a limitation: it requires manual container provisioning and is not scalable in large environments.
Host operating system Infrastructure (Physical server) Source: https://tsa.com/top 5 benefits of containerization/ Kubernetes Kubernetes is an open source container orchestration platform designed to automate deploying, scaling, and managing containerized applications.
Orchestration refers to managing the lifecycle of containerized applications.
It enables automatic scaling, auto healing, load balancing, and monitoring deployments.
Source: https://tsa.com/top 5 benefits of containerization/ Kubernetes Key Features Container orchestration K8s excels at managing containerized applications and it is efficiently run across clusters of computers.
Self healing If a container crashes, Kubernetes automatically detects it and restarts it, ensuring your application stays up and running.
Deployment and scaling Kubernetes automates deploying the containers across servers, scaling them up or down based on traffic, and restarting them if they fail.
Load balancing Kubernetes distributes incoming traffic across multiple instances of your containerized application, improving performance and reliability.
Benefits of Kubernetes Efficiency Automates manual tasks associated with container management, freeing up developers and IT staff Scalability Easily scales applications up or down based on demand Portability High availability Kubernetes applications can run on any infrastructure that supports it, providing flexibility in deployment options.
Ensures applications stay operational even if individual servers fail Internet of Things (IoT) The IoT is a network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and connectivity, enabling them to connect and exchange data.
Anything Any services Any time IoT Anywhere Anyone Any data Any path IoT Architecture Hardware Communication Cloud Applications Sensors and actuators Gateway Data center or cloud Mobile, tablet, laptop, or API Embedded cloud The Internet Big data Data acquisition Data aggregation Private cloud Data analysis Data presentation Components of IoT Sensors Facility automation Sensors are the backbone of the IoT, acting as the eyes and ears of interconnected devices by gathering physical world data.
Facility automation with IoT integrates internet connected devices, sensors, and software to optimize building operations and enhance the physical environment.
Wearables Connectivity These devices are designed to be worn, collecting real time data and providing functionalities that seamlessly integrate with daily life.
Networks such as Wi Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular enable these devices to connect to the internet.
IoT Security Challenges Lack of standardization Data privacy concerns Insecure communications IoT lacks a standardized security framework, resulting in inconsistent security practices across devices and manufacturers.
This fragmentation makes ensuring uniform security measures challenging, resulting in gaps in the overall security posture.
IoT devices collect and transmit vast amounts of data, including personal and sensitive information.
Mishandling or unauthorized access to this data can lead to privacy breaches and identity theft.
IoT devices may communicate over unsecured channels, making them susceptible to eavesdropping, where attackers intercept and alter communications, and man in the middle attacks, where attackers alter communications.
IoT Security Challenges Lifecycle management Physical attacks Supply chain risks IoT devices often have long lifecycles, and manufacturers may discontinue support and updates when new models enter the market.
This leaves devices vulnerable to known security flaws that go unpatched, posing a significant security risk.
Physical access to IoT devices can compromise their security, allowing attackers to tamper with hardware, extract sensitive data, or reprogram the device for malicious purposes.
Risks: IoT components sourced globally make supply chains vulnerable to tampering or the insertion of malicious components.
Ensuring the integrity of the supply chain is crucial to prevent security breaches.
Real Time Operating System (RTOS) It is a specialized operating system designed for tasks with strict deadlines, particularly in embedded systems.
Unlike a general purpose OS like Windows or macOS, an RTOS prioritizes responsiveness and determinism over features or a fancy user interface.
It is a software component that rapidly switches between tasks, creating the illusion of simultaneous execution of multiple programs on a single processing core.
Key Characteristics of RTOS Deterministic behavior: An RTOS guarantees a predictable response time to events, ensuring the system reacts to stimuli within a known timeframe, which is crucial for real time applications.
Minimal resource usage: RTOS is lightweight and designed for devices with limited processing power and memory, making them ideal for resource constrained embedded systems.
Task prioritization: An RTOS efficiently manages multiple tasks, prioritizing them based on real time requirements to ensure critical tasks meet deadlines.
Event driven architecture: RTOS often uses an event driven architecture, responding to events like sensor readings or external signals by triggering specific tasks.
Applications of RTOS Industrial automation and control systems: Robots, factory machinery, and industrial controllers rely on RTOS for precise timing and control.
Medical devices: Life critical equipment like pacemakers and defibrillators use RTOS to ensure timely responses.
Telecommunication systems: Consumer electronics: Routing calls, data packets, and ensuring network stability often involve RTOS.
Printers, drones, and even some high end smartwatches utilize RTOS for specific functions.
Advantages of RTOS Guaranteed response times: Ensures critical tasks meet defined deadlines crucial for applications such as industrial control systems or medical devices.
Improved system reliability: Predictable behavior and minimal resource usage enhance system stability and reliability.
Faster development time: RTOS provides a foundation for real time applications, streamlining development compared to coding everything from scratch.
Embedded System An embedded system is a small computer designed to perform a specific task within a more extensive system.
It typically consists of a processor, memory, and input/output (I/O) devices.
Unlike a general purpose computer, an embedded system is not designed for multiple tasks but excels at its singular function.
Many embedded systems have substantial design constraints compared to desktop computing applications.
Attributes of Embedded System Dedicated function: Part of a larger system: Embedded systems are designed for a specific task like controlling a traffic light or processing data from a medical device.
They are often integrated into a larger mechanical or electronic system such as a car or a washing machine.
Real time constraints: Variety in complexity: Many embedded systems need to respond to events in real time, meaning they have strict timing requirements.
They can range from very simple devices with minimal components to more complex systems with multiple processors and a user interface.
Applications of Embedded System Smartphones Thermostats Gaming consoles Anti lock braking system Industrial robots Comparison Between RTOS and Embedded System S.no Feature Embedded system RTOS (Real time operating system) 1 Purpose Dedicated computer for a specific task Software for managing tasks in an embedded system 2 Focus Efficiency in performing one function Meeting real time deadlines and deterministic performance 3 Examples Traffic light controller, thermostat, washing Industrial control systems, robotics, medical devices, machine avionics 4 Complexity Simple to complex 5 Resource usage Optimized for limited resources (memory, Minimizes overhead while providing real time processing) functionality 6 Timing constraints May or may not have strict timing requirements 8 RTOS usage Can function without an RTOS (for simpler Designed for embedded systems with strict timing tasks) constraints Typically lightweight and focused Designed for guaranteed task completion within deadlines Industrial Control System (ICS) Industrial control system (ICS) is a general term that encompasses several types of control systems, including supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distributed control systems (DCS), and other control system configurations such as programmable logic controllers (PLC) often found in the industrial sectors and critical infrastructures.
~ NIST Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) A programmable logic controller (PLC) is a small industrial computer originally designed for factory automation and industrial process control.
A PLC can be programmed as per the process that needs to be controlled.
PLCs have evolved into controllers with the capability of controlling complex processes, and they are used substantially in SCADA systems and DCS.
PLCs are also used as the primary controller in smaller system configurations.
PLCs are used extensively in almost all industrial processes.
Distributed Control Systems (DCS) A DCS is a specially designed automated control system used to monitor and control distributed equipment in process plants and industrial processes.
Unlike PLCs, which generally operate standalone and perform specific tasks, a DCS divides plant or process control into several areas of responsibility, each managed by its own controller.
The entire system is interconnected to function as a unified entity.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) These systems monitor and control a plant or equipment in industries such as telecommunications, water, waste control, energy, oil and gas refining, and other public transportation systems (airport, traffic control, and rails).
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) SCADA consists of many remote terminal units spread geographically across for the collection of data and is connected to the master station for centralized data acquisition via any communication system.
SCADA provides management with realtime data on production, improves plant and personnel safety, and reduces costs of operation.
SCADA systems have increasingly adopted Internet of things technology to significantly improve interoperability, reduce infrastructure costs, and increase ease of maintenance and integration.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) SCADA master station/control center Comm.
links 1200 bps + (down to 300 bps in actual installation) Radio Microwave Spread spectrum SCADA master Remote substation Remote terminal Unit (RTU) Intelligent electronic devices Actuator Meter Accumulator External control points Twisted pair Fiber optics Dial up Leased line Programmable logic controller (PLC) Difference Between PLC, DCS, and SCADA PLC DCS SCADA Usage Used for controlling the medium or large scale applications Used for controlling the entire plant Used for supervising and acquiring data from remote plants Location Local Local Geographically dispersed Communication LAN LAN Any communication system Performance High Medium Slow Security Concerns with ICS ICS poses the following security concerns: Control system protocols with little or no security Migration to TCP/IP networks with its inherent vulnerabilities Interconnection with enterprise networks Old operating systems and applications with poor patching practices Little monitoring of control systems to detect and prevent attacks Poor security practices followed by vendors resulting in insecure products Increased risk of insider attacks by outsourced IT services Increased attacks on ICS by terrorists and foreign governments Case Study: Scenario ICS malware targets European energy companies: The SFG malware, discovered in June 2016 on the networks of a European energy company, created a backdoor on targeted industrial control systems.
backdoor delivered a payload that was used to extract data from or potentially shut down the energy grid, according to security researchers at endpoint security firm SentinelOne.
Case Study: Impact The Windows based SFG malware is designed to bypass next generation antivirus software and firewalls.
It also encrypts key features of its code so that it cannot be discovered and analyzed.
The malware even skips features such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanners, and other advanced biometric access control systems running inside target organizations.
The malware shuts down when put into a sandboxed environment or a virtual machine to escape the notice of security teams.
Case Study Cyber criminals are shifting their focus to industrial facilities as a lucrative target, where they can blackmail facilities through techniques such as ransomware.
For nation states, identifying weaknesses in critical infrastructures of adversaries can be used strategically in case of conflicts, where cyberattacks can be launched to paralyze a nation's key sectors, such as power, water, and transportation.
High Availability (HA) HA refers to a systems ability to remain operational and accessible even in the face of hardware failures, software issues, or other unexpected disruptions.
This is a characteristic of a system that aims to ensure an agreed upon level of operational performance usually uptime for a higher than normal period.
It is about ensuring a system functions at a high level for an extended period, often measured by a specific uptime target.
Principles of High Availability 01 Elimination of single points of failure: This means adding or building redundancy into a system so that failure of a component does not mean failure of the entire system.
02 Reliable crossover: In redundant systems, the crossover point tends to become a single point of failure.
Reliable systems must provide for reliable crossover.
03 Detection of failures as they occur: If the preceding two principles are observed, a user may never see a failure, but the maintenance activity is a must.
High Availability Techniques Clustering Load balancing Redundancy Multiple servers work together, with one acting as primary and others as backups.
If the primary fails, a secondary server takes over.
Distributes incoming traffic across multiple servers to prevent overloading any single server Duplicates critical components like hardware, storage, and network connections to have backups in case of failure Secure Infrastructure Considerations Securing an enterprise infrastructure demands a multifaceted approach.
Assess the organizations unique risk profile, understand the everevolving threat landscape, and align security measures with business objectives.
Set up security zones, organize device placement, implement preventative and detective controls, protect access points, and ensure the enterprise infrastructure maintains adaptability in the face of emerging trends, such as cloud computing, remote workforces, and IoT proliferation.
Considerations for Infrastructure Availability: You must ensure that data is always available.
This may involve building another data center or using geographically dispersed cloud regions.
.Resilience:.
Resiliency is measured by the time it takes for an organization to recover from a critical failure.
A load balancer can enhance a web server's resiliency by distributing the load.
Cost: When we invest in new architecture, we consider not only the purchase cost but also the total cost of ownership, maintenance, and any third party service level agreements (SLAs).
Responsiveness: Responsiveness ensures timely and efficient interactions, enhancing user satisfaction and engagement.
Considerations for Infrastructure Scalability: This is the ability of the cloud to increase the resources needed.
. Ease of deployment: In a cloud infrastructure, we can use automation tools such as IaC, VDI, and machine templates to roll out virtual machines, or containerization to deploy applications seamlessly.
Risk transference: Setting up an SLA for your infrastructure is a case of risk transference, as you are transferring the risk to a third party.
Ease of recovery: Cloud provider use geographically distributed regions, each holding three or four copies of the data.
This ensures that if any data centers go offline, customers can still access other copies of the data.
Considerations for Infrastructure Patch availability: CSPs must maintain the most recent copies of patches to ensure that devices are up to date with security updates and feature releases.
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applications in the Inability to patch: A CSPPublishing.
might host clients critical cloud.
These applications are the responsibility of the customer, and the CSP might be contractually prevented from applying patches.
Power: A CSP needs to ensure it can meet the energy demands of its devices and workloads.
Power usage from higher compute resources increases costs.
Compute: Compute capabilities in the cloud allow a CSP to provide additional resources immediately on demand.
Security Principles to Secure Enterprise Infrastructure Device Placement It determines the strategic positioning of security, connectivity, and traffic management elements, serving as the blueprint for a networks functionality and security.
This architectural decision defines how a network will defend, communicate, and operate in the digital landscape, making it the foundation of network design and cybersecurity.
Security Zones These are distinct segments or partitions within a network.
Each zone has its own security policies, access controls, and trust levels.
These zones compartmentalize a network, dividing it into manageable segments and limiting access and privileges granted to users, devices, and systems.
Types of Network Zone A campus network or data center divided into zones implies that each zone has a different security configuration.
The main zones are as follows: Network zone Internal zones External zones Demilitarized zones Wireless zones Specialized zones Types of Zones Internal Zones External or Untrusted Zones Demilitarized zones or Screened subnets Wireless Zones Specialized Zones Referred to as trusted zones, internal zones include segments where sensitive or internal data is processed.
They often have more relaxed security policies than external, or untrusted, zones, but access is limited to authorized personnel.
Types of Zones Internal Zones External or Untrusted Zones Demilitarized zones or Screened subnets Wireless Zones Specialized Zones External zones are areas where connections from the public Internet or other untrusted networks are permitted.
Rigorous security measures are implemented in these zones to prevent unauthorized access to internal resources.
Types of Zones Internal Zones External or Untrusted Zones Demilitarized zones or Screened subnets Wireless Zones Specialized Zones This is a specialized external zone where public facing services like web or mail servers.
A DMZ is isolated from the Internet and the internal trusted zones to provide additional protection for the internal network.
Types of Zones Internal Zones External or Untrusted Zones Demilitarized zones or Screened subnets Wireless Zones Specialized Zones A wireless network uses radio waves instead of cables to connect devices to each other.
This allows you to connect to the internet or other devices on the network without being tethered to a physical location.
Types of Zones Internal Zones External or Untrusted Zones Demilitarized zones or Screened subnets Wireless Zones Specialized zones Specialized zones are required to meet regulatory compliance requirements such as a PCI zone for handling credit card data.
They are also used to isolate environments with different security requirements, for example, separating a development zone separated from a production zone.
Features of Security Zones Segmentation They segregate the network into logical or physical segments.
These segments can be based on various criteria, such as user roles, device types, or data sensitivity.
Access Control Granular access control policies can be applied to the data in the zones.
Isolations They isolate potential breaches or cyberattacks, preventing them from spreading laterally across the network and reducing their threat.
Features of Security Zones Incident Containment In the event of a breach or cyberattack, security zones limit the lateral movement of attackers, contain the impact, and facilitate effective incident response.
Compliance Many regulatory frameworks, such as HIPAA and PCI DSS, mandate the use of security zones to protect sensitive data.
Compliance is critical for organizations in various industries.
Operational efficiency They streamline network management, allowing IT administrators can focus on specific zones, making it easier to monitor, configure, and respond to security events.
Attack Surface It encompasses all of an organizations or system's exposed points that malicious actors could exploit to gain unauthorized access, steal data, or disrupt operations.
To minimize potential vulnerabilities, a key strategy in cybersecurity is to reduce the attack surface.
Attack Surface Encompasses 01 Vulnerabilities 02 Attack vectors 03 Access points Types of Attack Surfaces Digital Attack Surface: This encompasses vulnerabilities in software, hardware, firmware, and configurations of IT systems.
Physical Attack Surface: This refers to physical access points that could be exploited to enter a system, such as unauthorized USB devices.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor An endpoint is any device that connects to and communicates with a computer network.
It is the final point where data converges before entering or exiting a network.
Devices like computers, smartphones, and IoT devices that connect to the network are primary targets.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Network services are the applications and functionalities provided within a computer network that enables communication, resource sharing, and data exchange among connected devices.
Ports and Protocols Services like web servers, email servers, and VPN gateways expose themselves to the Internet and become potential entry points.
User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor Ports and protocols are fundamental concepts in computer networking that enable devices to communicate effectively.
They work together to ensure data is sent to the correct application or service on a specific device.
Open ports and protocols on network devices create opportunities for attackers to probe and exploit weaknesses.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor Weak or compromised passwords pose a significant security risk as attackers may employ brute force attacks or phishing to obtain legitimate credentials and gain unauthorized access.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor Third party integration (TPI) is a connection between two or more software applications that allows them to share data and functionality.
They offer benefits such as increased functionality, efficiency, and streamlined workflows, but they also introduce additional attack surfaces for malicious actors.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor The cloud offers numerous benefits for businesses, from scalability and cost efficiency, increased agility, and accessibility.
However, this flexibility also comes with an expanded attack surface.
As organizations migrate to the cloud, cloud based assets become potential targets.
Misconfigured cloud resources can expose sensitive data.
Attack Surfaces End Points Network Services Ports and Protocols User accounts and credentials Third party integrations Cloud Services Human Factor Employees, whether through ignorance or malicious intent, can inadvertently contribute to the attack surface.
Security awareness training is an essential preventive measure.
Controls for limiting attack surface Vulnerability assessment Security updates Access control Strong authentication Network segmentation Regular auditing Single point of failure Security awareness Connectivity Connectivity in a network refers to the ability of devices to connect and communicate with each other.
It encompasses the physical links, hardware components, and software protocols that enable data transmission and exchange within a network.
Components of Connectivity Physical Connection Network Devices Communication Protocols Security Devices Attributes of Effective Connectivity 01 Reliability: Data is transmitted accurately and consistently with minimal errors or disruptions 02 Performance: Data transfer occurs efficiently, with minimal delays or lags 03 Security: Data is protected from unauthorized access or modification during transmission Failure Modes They determine how a device or system behaves during a failure or malfunction, making them essential to engineering and safety systems.
They help identify and analyze potential points of failure to improve reliability and mitigate risks.
Failure Modes There are two types of failure modes available: Fail Open This mechanism focuses on failing with minimum harm to personnel.
Example: In case of power failure in datacenter, an electronic door will fail to open or remain open to let people exit safely.
Fail Close This mechanism focuses on failing in a controlled manner to block access while the systems are in an inconsistent state.
Example: In case of firewall failure, traffic will stop flowing to prevent unauthorized access or malicious traffic.
Device Attributes These are characteristics and functionalities that determine how a security device operates in a network environment.
Attributes, such as active versus passive monitoring or inline versus tap/monitor configurations, play a crucial role in defining a devices behavior, capabilities, and impact on network traffic.
Device Attributes Active devices Inline Passive devices Tap/Monitor Active Devices These are a proactive force within your network security arsenal.
They intervene and act when potential threats are detected.
These devices block or mitigate threats in real time, helping to maintain the integrity and security of your network.
Examples: Firewalls, Intrusion Prevention System, Network Access control.
Passive Devices These are observers.
They monitor network traffic, analyze patterns, and provide insights into potential threats and vulnerabilities.
Unlike active devices, passive devices do not take immediate action to block threats.
Instead, they focus on visibility and analysis.
Examples: Intrusion Detection System, Security Information and Event Management.
Inline Devices These are placed directly in the network traffic path.
They actively process traffic, making real time decisions to allow or block data packets.
Examples of inline devices include firewall appliances, which actively control inbound and outbound traffic, and load balancers, which distribute network traffic across multiple servers and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPSs).
Tap/Monitor They do not interfere with the flow of network traffic.
Instead, they monitor the traffic and duplicate it for analysis or monitoring purposes.
These devices provide visibility without affecting the original data flow.
An example of a tap/monitor device is a network packet analyzer, also known as a packet sniffer, which captures and analyzes network traffic for troubleshooting or security analysis.
Network Appliances These are essential for maintaining and securing network connectivity, ensuring reliable and efficient network operations.
They are specialized hardware devices designed to perform specific network functions.
They offer dedicated hardware, software, and resources for efficient operation.
Considerations for Infrastructure Jump Box Firewall Proxy Server Load balancer Web Application Firewall Network Access Control Jump Box It serves as a bastion host or intermediary server within the cloud network.
Jump Box Protected Network Benefits include enhanced security, improved network segmentation, and centralized logging.
Firewall It has been the first line of defense in network security for over 25 years.
It is typically located at the intersection of two networks, usually a private network and a public network such as the internet.
Secure Private Network Firewall Internet It completely isolates your computer from the Internet by inspecting each data packet as it reaches either side of the firewall.
Firewall Designing Goals The firewall must allow all traffic to pass from the inside to the outside and vice versa.
Only permitted traffic will be allowed to pass, as stated by the local security policy.
The firewall must be resistant to penetration attempts to ensure network security.
Rules Firewall rules are instructions that dictate how incoming and outgoing network traffic should be handled.
Rules can be defined in terms of directions, i.e., Inbound and Outbound.
They can be categorized into allow and deny rules.
They can also be based on port numbers and protocol types.
In firewall configurations, the sequence of rules is crucial for effective security.
Access Control Lists They identify traffic flows using characteristics such as a source and destination IP address, IP protocol, ports, EtherType, and other parameters, depending on the ACL type.
Access Control Lists Protocol Source Address Destination Address Source Port Destination Port Flag Bit Allow TCP Outside of 140.114/16 140.114.44.2 >1023 80 SYN Allow UDP Outside of 140.114/16 140.114/16 >1023 53 Deny All All All All All Action All Firewall Categories Network Based Firewall A network based firewall protects the entire network.
It can make decisions throughout the traffic.
Firewall Personal computers Internet Host Based Firewall Host based firewalls contain filtering rules that can be tailored to the host environment.
They provide protection that is independent of topology.
A host based firewall is installed on each server It controls incoming and outgoing network traffic It determines whether to allow traffic into a particular device Personal computer Internet Network and Host Based Firewall Network Based Firewall Host Based Firewall Terminology Filters traffic going from internet to secured LAN and vice versa Filters incoming and outgoing traffic on each device Placement At the perimeter of the border Placed at the host system Hardware/Software Hardware based Software based Functionality Network level Host level Scalability Easy to scale More effort required to scale Cannot be moved Mobile friendly Mobility Types of Firewall Firewall On the basis of technology Packet filtering Proxy firewall On the basis of architecture Stateful firewall Multihomed Screened host Screened subnet Packet Filtering Firewall Works in layers 3 and 4Stateless firewalls Takes decisions based on source and destination IP/port numbers, protocol type, and direction Inbound, outbound, or both Based on rule based access control Proxy Firewall Works in layers 3 and 4Stateless firewalls Takes decisions based on source and destination IP/port numbers, protocol type, and direction Inbound, outbound, or both Based on rule based access control Client system Proxy firewall Server Stateful Firewall Limits information that is allowed into a network based not only on destination and source address but also contents of the state table Maintains a state table of all connections; only the first packet is deep inspected, subsequent connections are not inspected Provides high degree of security and does not introduce a performance hit Scalable and transparent to the user Dual Homed Firewall Dual homed firewall has two interfaces, one inside and one outside.
One NIC is connected to an untrusted network (like the internet), and the other is connected to a trusted network (like a corporate network).
Traffic, once passed through this firewall, directly reaches the internal network as there is only one layer of defense.
This is used in SOHO (small office, home office) or small remote locations.
Screened Host Firewall Internet A device that is connected to the internet router, segregating the internal network Traffic from the internet router can only connect to this firewall; after inspection, it is passed on to the internal network Traffic received from the internet is first filtered via packet filtering on the outer router The traffic that makes it past this phase is sent to the screened host firewall, which applies more rules to the traffic and drops the denied packets Internet router Firewall Internal network Screened Subnet Firewall A screened subnet firewall is a network security architecture that uses two firewalls to create three separate subnets: external, demilitarized zone (DMZ), and internal network.
Internet Internet router DMZ Outer firewall Traffic first reaches the packet filtering router.
Once it passes through the router, it reaches the outer firewall where the DMZ is hosted.
Traffic for the DMZ network is forwarded after an access list check by the outer firewall.
Traffic destined for the internal network will be forwarded to the internal firewall, which performs further checks before allowing it into the internal network.
Internal firewall Internal network Unified Threat Management (UTM) Unified Threat Management Unified Threat Management (UTM) is an information security solution that protects against threats, malware, and network attacks from a single point.
UTM integrates multiple security functions into a single hardware or software platform.
This consolidation simplifies security management, reduces costs, and enhances overall protection.
Advantages and Disadvantages of UTM Advantages Disadvantages Affordable solution Single point of failure (SPOF) Centralized solution Performance bottleneck when fully utilized Reduced support costs Less specialized than dedicated solutions Reduced hardware footprint Lower performance compared to alternatives Easier to integrate into existing solutions Hard to scale in large environments Low power consumption Limited features compared to point product alternatives Next Generation Firewall (NGF) Next Generation Firewall (NGF) The Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) is a deep packet inspection firewall that adds application level inspection, intrusion prevention, and intelligence from outside the firewall to go beyond port/protocol inspection and blocking.
UTM Versus NGFW Next generation firewalls (NGFWs) and Unified Threat Management (UTM) solutions are both designed to consolidate multiple security functions into a single solution.
Experts agree that the difference between UTM and NGFW is blurring.
The technologies used in both are essentially the same and generally have the same capabilities.
UTM devices are typically rated with lower performance than their NGFW counterparts, but the differences are mostly in the marketing for all practical purposes.
Web Application Firewall Web Application Firewall WAF is defined as a security policy enforcement point positioned between a web application and the client endpoint.
This feature can be implemented in either software or hardware and run on an appliance device or a standard server with a common operating system.
It can be used as a stand alone device or as part of a larger network.
Web Application Firewall WAF is a specialized application firewall designed to protect web applications by filtering and monitoring HTTP traffic between a web application and the internet.
HTTP traffic inspection can help avoid attacks that exploit a web application's known flaws, such as SQL injection and cross site scripting (XSS).
Proxy Server Proxy Server It acts as a middleman between clients and servers, frequently protecting internal clients from external threats.
Forward Proxy Server It acts on behalf of clients, gathering data from a variety of sources and delivering it to them.
The proxy server is aware of the clients, but the providers (servers) are not.
Proxy Internal Network Internet Forward Proxy Server Improves performance Monitoring and filtering: Filtering content Filtering encrypted data Logging and monitoring Translates data formats or languages Access services anonymously Implement security Reverse Proxy Server It acts on behalf of other servers, forwarding requests to one or more regular servers, which process them.
Proxy Internet Internal Network The response from the proxy server is sent back as if it came directly from the original server, leaving the client with no awareness of the origin servers.
Reverse Proxy Server Security and Anonymity Load Balancing Reverse proxies can mask the existence and features of an origin server or servers.
They act as a secondary line of defense against cyber attacks.
It can divide the load from incoming requests over numerous servers, maximizing speed and capacity utilization while preventing any server from being overloaded, and causing performance degradation.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention System Intrusion Intrusion refers to any unauthorized access, unauthorized attempt to access or damage, or malicious use of information systems.
An intrusion may compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information assets.
Intrusion Detection System Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is a solution that continuously monitors the environment and detects and alerts malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access.
IDS in promiscuous mode Internet Router Firewall Server Personal computer Main Functions of IDS IDS gathers and analyzes information from within a computer or a network to identify violations of the security policy, including unauthorized access and misuse.
It is also referred to as a packet sniffer, which intercepts packets traveling via various communication media and protocols, usually TCP/IP.
It evaluates traffic for suspected intrusions and raises the alarm upon detecting such intrusions.
Intrusion Prevention System Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is a technology that monitors the environment and responds automatically when malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access are detected.
IPS in inline mode Internet Router Firewall Switch Personal computer False Positive or False Negative?
IDS detected it IDS didnt detect it Malicious traffic True positive (Attack and alert) False negative (Attack and no alert) Normal traffic False positive (No attack and alert) True negative (No attack and no alert) Perimeter The IDS/IPS can be placed at the edge of the perimeter network, where it inspects traffic leaving and entering the network environment inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ).
Router IDS/IPS Personal computers Internet Host Based IDS/IPS agents (HIDS/HIPS) can be installed on various endpoint systems to detect malicious or suspect traffic between hosts.
This adds a layer of defense if an attacker could make it through perimeter defenses.
Router IDS/IPS installed on personal computer Internet Network Based IDS/IPS elements (NIDS/NIPS) can be placed at various points of the network to monitor internal traffic and recognize malicious or suspect activity internally.
Router Internet Personal computers Signature Based Detection Signature Based Detection or Pattern Matching Detection refers to detecting attacks by looking for specific patterns, such as byte sequences in network traffic or known malicious instruction sequences used by malware.
An example of a signature is a packet with the same source IP address and destination IP address.
Real time traffic is matched against the database, and if the IDS finds a match, it raises an alert.
A primary benefit of this method is that it has a low falsepositive rate.
Although this method can easily detect known attacks, it is difficult to detect new attacks for which no pattern is available.
Anomaly Based Detection Anomaly based (heuristic) detection method monitors network traffic, builds a model of acceptable behavior, and flags exceptions to that model.
Heuristic method uses feature comparisons and likenesses rather than specific signature matching to identify whether the target of observation is malicious.
The primary approach is to use machine learning to create a model of trustworthy activity and then compare new behavior against this model.
Virtual Private Network Introduction to Remote Access Remote access technologies can be defined as the data networking technologies that are uniquely focused on providing access to the remote user into a network.
Advantages of remote access technologies: Reduce networking costs Build efficient ties Provide flexible work styles Virtual Private Network A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a private network that uses a public network (usually the internet) to connect remote sites or users together.
Internet Regional office Head office Remote/Roaming users VPN Security Authentication Ensuring that the data originates at the source that it claims Access control Restricting unauthorized users from gaining admission to the network Confidentiality Integrity Preventing anyone from reading or copying data as it travels across the internet Ensuring that no one tampers with data as it travels across the internet VPN Tunnel VPN is the tunnel that connects the user to the VPN server.
To keep each data packet secure, it gets wrapped in an outer packet which is encrypted through a process known as encapsulation.
This outer packet keeps the data secure during the transfer.
At the VPN server, the outer packet is removed to access the data of the inner packet.
Advantages of VPN Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data in transit Hide your browsing activity from your local network and ISP Help in bypassing internet censorship to access blocked websites or bypassing internet filters Disadvantages of VPN Security issues occur if VPN is not configured and managed correctly Performance issues may occur due to ISP and their quality of service Complexity and incompatibility may arise due to issues with VPN technology standards Site to Site VPN Site to Site VPNs, or intranet VPNs, allow a company to connect its remote sites to the corporate backbone securely over a public medium like the internet.
Host to Host VPN Host to Host VPN is somewhat like a site to site VPN in concept except that the endpoints of the tunnel are two individual hosts.
Host to Site VPN Host to Site or remote access VPNs allow remote users like telecommuters to securely access the corporate network wherever and whenever they need to.
Internet Security Protocol (IPsec) Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) is a protocol suite used for securing Internet Protocol (IP) communications.
The protocols mutually authenticate agents at the beginning of the session and negotiate cryptographic keys to be used during the session.
A cryptographic layer to both IPv4 and IPv6 using a suite of protocols is added.
Each IP packet of a communication session is authenticated and encrypted.
It provides virtual private networks (VPN) and is used for creating a secure connection between client and server and between networks.
Network Data VPN tunnel Internet Alices network1 Bobs Network Encrypted text?
Eavesdropper Typical IPSEC Tunnel?
IPsec Protocols Authentication header Provides only authentication and integrity Encapsulating security payload Provides confidentiality, authentication and integrity IPSec ISAKMP Algorithms Defines procedures and packet formats to establish, negotiate, modify,and delete security associations.
Confidentiality algorithm AES,3DES Integrity algorithm MD5, SHA Authentication algorithm Pre shared key, certificates IPsec Modes: Transport Mode Transport mode In transport mode, only the data is encrypted It is designed for peer to peer communication IPsec Modes: Transport Mode IP Header TCP Payload Header Authentication Header (AH) IP Header AH Header TCP Payload Header Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP) IP Header ESP Header TCP Payload Header IP data packet ESP Trailer Encrypted Authenticated ESP Auth IPsec Modes: Tunnel Mode Tunnel mode In tunnel mode, the entire data packet including the header is encrypted.
It is designed for gateway to gateway communication.
IPsec Modes: Tunnel Mode IP Header TCP Payload Header Authentication Header (AH) New IP Header AH Header IP Header TCP Payload Header Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP) New IP Header ESP Header IP Header TCP Payload Header IP Data Packet ESP Trailer Encrypted Authenticated ESP Auth IPsec Process The steps in the IPsec process are as follows: Router A Host A Router B Host B Step 1 : Interesting traffic initiates the IPSec process Step 2 : IKE phase 1 IKE SA IKE phase 1 IKE SA Step 3 : IKE phase 1 IPSec SA IKE phase 2 IPSec SA Step 4: Data transfer IPSec tunnel Step 5 : IPSec tunnel termination Transport Layer Security Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols are a family of cryptographic protocols designed to ensure secure communication over networks, primarily the internet.
They provide three key functionalities, which include: Confidentiality: Encrypting data transmission to prevent eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
Integrity: Ensuring data hasn't been tampered with during transmission.
Authentication: Verifying the identity of communicating parties (client and server) for trust and security.
These functionalities are crucial in maintaining secure and reliable communication in various internet based applications.
TLS TLS Protocols The handshake establishes a secure connection, verifying TLS handshake protocol(Authentication and access) identities and granting access.
TLS 1.3 has improved simplicity and performance.
Client and server exchange messages to: TLS record protocol(Secure communication) o Identify themselves: The server presents a digital certificate, and the client might also provide credentials.
o Agree on encryption methods: They negotiate the strongest ciphers and algorithms both support.
o Create a shared secret key: This key is used to encrypt the actual data transmission.
TLS Protocols The record protocol uses the secured connection TLS handshake protocol(Authentication and access) established by the handshake to transmit data like encrypted messages in the building.
After the handshake, data is divided into small encrypted chunks called records.
TLS record protocol(Secure communication) Each record is: o Encrypted with the agreed upon key: Ensuring confidentiality.
o Authenticated with a message integrity code: Preventing tampering.
Secure Shell SSH, or Secure Shell, is a cryptographic network protocol for secure remote access and management over insecure networks.
It provides strong encryption and authentication mechanisms to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted between two machines, SSH plays a crucial role in interacting with and managing resources in the cloud environment.
offer the ability to connect directly to your virtual machines (VMs) within the cloud using an SSH client SSH server SSH client 22 Secure Shell SSH, or Secure Shell, is a cryptographic network protocol for secure remote access and management over insecure networks.
It provides strong encryption and authentication mechanisms to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted between two machines.
Confidentiality and integrity: SSH ensures that data transmitted between two machines is protected from eavesdropping and tampering.
Cloud environment interaction: SSH plays a crucial role in interacting with and managing resources in the cloud environment.
Direct VM connection: SSH offers the ability to connect directly to your virtual machines (VMs) within the cloud using an SSH client.
SSH server SSH client 22 SSH is essential for maintaining secure communication and management of remote systems, particularly in cloud based infrastructures.
Network Access Control (NAC) Network Access Control (NAC) It is a concept of controlling access to an environment through strict adherence to and implementation of security policy.
It is a method of bolstering the security of a proprietary network by restricting the availability of network resources to endpoint devices that comply with a defined security policy.
Network Access Control: Posture Assessment Posture assessment is the process by which host health checks are performed against a client device to verify compliance with the health policy.
Network access control solutions can be: Agent based Agentless Goals of NAC Prevent/Reduce day zero attack 1 Enforce security policy throughout the network 2 Use identities to perform access control 3 NAC Implementation Pre admission policy Post admission policy It requires a system to meet all current security requirements, such as patch application and antivirus updates before it is allowed to communicate with the network.
It refers to the set of rules and actions applied to a device after it has been granted access to the network NAC Agent The use of NAC technologies requires an examination of a host before allowing it to connect to the network.
This examination is performed by a piece of software, frequently referred to as an agent.
Permanent agent Agents can be permanently deployed to hosts, ensuring that the functionality is always in place, or provided on an asneeded basis by the endpoint at the time of use.
When agents are pre deployed to endpoints, these permanent agents act as the gateway to NAC functionality.
One of the first checks is agent integrity, followed by machine integrity.
Dissolvable agent In cases where deployment on an asneeded basis is chosen, an agent can be deployed upon request and discarded after use.
These agents are often referred to as dissolvable agents because they essentially disappear after use.
Port Security Port security is a network security feature implemented on switches to control and limit access to specific switch ports.
It helps safeguard a network from unauthorized devices and malicious attacks by restricting which devices can connect to a particular port.
Port Based Network Access Control Some methods of ensuring port security are: Physical port security Provides secure access to physical switch ports and switch hardware Physically disconnects unused ports Disables switch port using the management software MAC filtering Configures permitted MACs Limits the number of MAC changes Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) snooping Inspects traffic arriving on access ports Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) ensures ARP packets use valid IP addresses 802.1x NAC 802.1X authentication involves: Supplicant: The client device (such as a laptop) that wants to be authenticated to LAN or WLAN Authentication server: The trusted server that authenticates the supplicant, typically a RADIUS server Authenticator: The device that provides a data link between the supplicant and the authentication server and allows or blocks traffic between the two Example: Wireless access point or an Ethernet switch Source: https://www.tp link.com/us/configuration guides/configuring_802_1x/?configurationId=18220 Supplicant (Clients) Switch authenticator Authentication server 802.1x Architecture Supplicants Authenticators Authentication server Identity sources EAP Computers Microsoft AD Wired access switches EAP Policy service node Mobile devices Wireless LAN controllers MAB Non supplicants devices (Printers) Source: https://sudonull.com/post/31574 Configuring 8021X on Cisco Switches Using Failover NPS Windows RADIUS with AD Microsoft PKI Software Defined Wide Area Network It is a virtualized WAN architecture that allows enterprises to connect multiple locations using a variety of transport services like MPLS, 4G LTE, and broadband internet.
Unlike traditional WANs that rely heavily on hardware, SD WAN leverages software to manage and optimize network traffic.
SD WANs use encryption to protect data and route traffic based on application needs.
They integrate with firewalls to enhance defense against threats and simplify centralized network security management for comprehensive protection.
How SD WAN Works Centralized control Overlay network A centralized controller manages the SD WAN network, making it easier to configure and manage.
SD WAN creates a virtual overlay network on top of existing physical networks.
Application aware routing Dynamic selection Traffic is intelligently routed based on application requirements and network conditions.
SD WAN can dynamically choose the best path for traffic based on factors like latency, jitter, and packet loss.
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) It is a relatively new cloud based approach to network security that combines and delivers several network and security functionalities as a single service.
SASE blends robust security with cloud agility, offering centralized end to end protection and simplified access, regardless of user location.
This innovative network architecture combines WAN technologies and cloud based security under a zero trust model, incorporating identity and access management (IAM) and a suite of threat prevention features such as intrusion prevention and content filtering.
Key Components of SASE SD WAN (Software defined wide area network): Optimizes internet connectivity across various connections (broadband, MPLS, LTE) for better performance and reliability FWaaS (Firewall as a service): Provides cloud based firewall functionality to filter and control network traffic CASB (Cloud access security broker): Monitors and secures access to cloud applications to prevent data breaches.
SWG (Secure web gateway): Filters web traffic to block malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats.
ZTNA (Zero trust network access): Provides secure, role based access to applications without requiring users to connect to the corporate network.
Key Aspects of SASE Cloud delivered Unified service SASE operates from the cloud, eliminating the need for complex on premise security infrastructure.
It merges networking (SD WAN) and security functions (FWaaS, CASB, SWG, ZTNA) into a single platform for centralized management and policy enforcement.
Improved security Enhanced user experience By consolidating security controls, it provides a more consistent and comprehensive security posture across the entire network.
It enables secure access to applications from anywhere, on any device, with minimal latency.
Benefits of SASE Improved security Enhanced agility Reduced costs Comprehensive security controls and consistent policy enforcement Scalable and adaptable to meet the demands of modern distributed networks Eliminates the need for onpremise security hardware and simplifies network management Simplified administrations Improved user experience Centralized control and visibility across all security functions Secure and reliable access to applications from anywhere, on any device Concepts and Strategies to Protect Data Data Types Data is a critical part of modern businesses and needs to be protected from malicious actors.
There are different types of data, ranging from personal data to regulated data, business data, and medical data.
These data need to be protected from unauthorized access.
Types of Data Human readable data: This encompasses vulnerabilities in software, hardware, firmware, and configurations of IT systems.
Non human readable data: This data includes binary code, machine language, and encrypted data.
To protect non humanreadable data, cryptographic algorithms, secure key management.
Different Data Types Personal identifiable information (PII) Protected health information (PHI) PII is data that is unique to a person, for example, their social security number, biometric data, driving license number, and employee records.
PHI is health data that is unique to a person, such as their medical history including diseases and treatments, and various test results such as MRI scans or X rays.
Financial data Legal data This is data related to electronic payments, including bank account details, credit card information, and transaction records, which are subject to financial regulations and laws.
This refers to data regarding legal proceedings, such as court cases.
This data is very confidential and subject to privacy laws.
Different Data Types Intellectual property (IP) Consumer data IP rights are your creative innovations and may include trade secrets, patents, or copyright material.
They are highly protected by regulations such as patents and copyright laws.
Consumer data, including purchase histories, preferences, and online behavior, may be regulated by consumer protection laws and privacy regulations.
Proprietary data Biometric data Often overlapping with IP or trade secrets, proprietary data is data generated by a company and can include research or product development work.
This is data collected from fingerprints or facial recognition scans.
Privacy Regulations Some Common Privacy Regulations General Data Protection Act (GDPR) Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) CCPA Sarbanes Oxley Act (SOX) Gramm Leach Bliley Act (GLBA) GLBA Data Protection Act (1998) Privacy Regulations The Gramm Leach Bliley act of 1999 Applies to financial institutions; driven by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) Requires protection of the confidentiality and integrity of consumer financial information (enacted in 1999) Mandates financial institutions to develop privacy notices and give customers the option to prohibit the sharing of their information Holds the board of directors responsible for many security issues within a financial institution Requires financial institutions to have a written security policy in place Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 Relates directly to the financial scandals in the late 90s Establishes regulatory compliance standards for financial report Imposes criminal penalties for intentional violations Requires firms to provide real time disclosures of any events that may affect a firm's price or financial performance Privacy Regulations Health insurance portability and accountability act: Establishes U.S. federal regulation with national standards and procedures for the storage, use, and transmission of personal medical information and health care data.
HITECH 2009 In 2009, Congress amended HIPAA by passing the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act.
Provides a framework and guidelines to ensure security, integrity, and privacy, with HIPAA mandating steep federal penalties for noncompliance.
The new regulations mandated changes in how the law treats business associates (BAs) and organizations handling protected health information (PHI).
Defines a business associate as a person or entity that performs certain functions or activities involving the use or disclosure of protected health information on behalf of, or providing services to, a covered entity.
HITECH introduced new data breach notification requirements.
The HITECH Breach Notification Rule mandates that HIPAA covered entities experiencing a data breach must notify affected individuals and notify both the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the media if the breach affects more than 500 individuals.
Specifies that a business associate agreement (BAA) is a contract between a HIPAA covered entity and a HIPAA business associate (BA), protecting PHI in accordance with HIPAA guidelines.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) The EU General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR) is a regulation that requires businesses to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens for transactions occurring within the EU.
Companies that collect data on citizens in European Union (EU) countries must comply with strict new rules for protecting customer data starting on May 25, 2018.
Noncompliant organizations may face administrative fines of up to 20 million or up to 4% of the entitys global turnover from the preceding financial year, whichever is higher.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Organizations must report data breaches within 72 hours.
Companies must also allow users to export and delete their data.
Under the existing right to be forgotten provisions, people who dont want certain data about them online can request that companies remove it.
GDPR Roles and Responsibilities Subject Any person whose personal data is being collected, held, or processed.
The EU GDPR proposes a set of rules meant to help data subjects and enforce their rights against abusive personal data processing.
Data controller The legal entity that, either alone or jointly, determines the purpose and manner in which personal data is or will be processed.
Data processors Supervisory authority The entity that processes data on behalf of the data controller but cannot control or change the purpose of the data set.
The Supervisory Authority (SA), established in each EU Member State, is tasked with enforcing GDPR and monitoring the application of GDPR rules to protect individual rights concerning the processing and transfer of personal data within the EU.
Data Protection Principles The EU General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR) outlines six data protection principles that organizations must follow when collecting, processing, and storing individuals' personal data.
Lawfulness, fairness, and transparency 4.
Accuracy 2.
Purpose limitation 3.
Data minimization 5.
Storage limitations 6.
Integrity and confidentiality The data controller is responsible for complying with the principles and must be able to demonstrate the organizations compliance practices.
Data Protection Principles Lawfulness, fairness, and transparency Purpose limitation Data minimization Process personal data lawfully, fairly, and transparently in relation to the data subject.
Collect personal data for specified, explicit, and legitimate purposes, and do not further process it in a manner incompatible with those purposes.
Ensure personal data is adequate, relevant, and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which it is processed.
Data Protection Principles Accuracy Storage limitations Ensure personal data is accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date; take every reasonable step to erase or rectify inaccurate personal data without delay, considering the purposes for which it is processed.
Keep personal data in a form that permits identification of data subjects for no longer than necessary for the purposes for which it is processed.
Integrity and confidentiality Process personal data in a manner that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unauthorized or unlawful processing, and against accidental loss, destruction, or damage, using appropriate technical or organizational measures.
California Consumer Privacy Act Enhance privacy rights and consumer protection for California residents in the US.
Empower Californians with control over their personal information, requiring businesses that collect this data to comply with CCPA regulations.
Key rights for consumers: Access the data a business has collected on them.
Request deletion of their personal information.
Opt out of having their data sold to third parties.
Data Protection Controls Protecting Privacy Anonymization Data masking Pseudonymization Privacy controls Data loss prevention Tokenization Encryption Data Masking or Obfuscation Data masking Hides, replaces, or omits sensitive information from a specific data set.
Protects specific data sets, such as PII or commercially sensitive data, and complies with regulations like HIPAA or PCI DSS.
Supports test platforms where suitable test data is not available.
Applies when migrating tests or development environments to the cloud or protecting production environments from data exposure threats.
Protecting Privacy: Pseudonymization Pseudonymization It involves using pseudonyms to represent other data.
It prevents data from directly identifying an entity, such as a person.
For example, a medical record in a doctors office could use a pseudonym like Patient 23456 instead of personal information.
The personal information would be stored in another database linking it to the patients pseudonym.
Name Token/Pseudonym Anonymized Clyde qOerd Xxxxx Marco Loqfh xxxxx Lex Mcv Xxxxx Les Mcv Xxxxx Marco Loqfh xxxxx Raul BhQl xxxxx Clyde qOerd xxxxx Protecting Privacy: Data Anonymization Direct identifiers include information that relates specifically to an individual and can be used in isolation to uniquely identify them.
Direct identifier Indirect identifier Data anonymization Examples of direct identifiers include social security number, full name, email address, telephone number, health insurance number, medical record number, full face photographs, or biometric records such as fingerprints.
Indirect identifiers include information that can be combined with other information to identify specific individuals.
For example, indirect identifiers can include a combination of gender, date of birth, geographic indicators, and other descriptors.
Anonymization is the process of removing indirect identifiers to prevent data analysis tools or other intelligent mechanisms from collating data from multiple sources to identify sensitive information.
Protecting Privacy: Tokenization Token database Tokenization It is the process of substituting a sensitive data element with a nonsensitive equivalent referred to as a token.
3 Tokenization is a technology that: o o Tokenization server Replaces the original data with nonsensitive placeholders Authorized application 6 Safeguards sensitive data in a secure, protected, and regulated environment 2 1 4 Application Server Database 5 Protecting Privacy: Tokenization When the sensitive data is needed, an authorized application or user can request it.
The application stores the token rather than the original data.
An application collects or 1 generates a piece of sensitive data.
6 5 The tokenization server 4 returns the token to the application.
Key features 2 3 The application sends the data to the tokenization server, not storing it locally.
The tokenization server generates the token and stores both the sensitive data and the token in the token database.
Encryption Encryption is a cornerstone of data security, transforming data from plaintext into ciphertext, an unreadable format that can only be deciphered with the appropriate decryption key.
By implementing encryption, enterprises ensure that even if data is intercepted, it remains indecipherable to unauthorized parties, thereby safeguarding the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.
Digital Rights Management (DRM) DRM is a class of technology used for the copyright protection of digital media.
It uses cryptography to prevent the unauthorized redistribution of digital media.
It restricts the copying of digital content purchased by consumers.
It requires special software or a device to access DRMprotected content.
Data Rights Management Digital rights management (DRM): This applies to the protection of consumer media, including music, publications, videos, and movies.
DRM is most typically used to protect the intellectual property of a vendors digital product that is electronically sold into a wide market, such as music or film.
When someone buys a music file online, for example, DRM built into the servers and players allows the licensor to control how the file is used.
The licensor may specify electronically that a music file cant be forwarded to others, copied, or watched for only a certain length of time.
Information Rights Management (IRM): This applies to the organizational side to protect information and privacy, whereas DRM applies to the distribution side to protect intellectual property rights and control the extent of distribution.
Information Rights Management Features: Sets policies on who can open the document and what actions they can perform, providing granularity for printing, copying, saving, and similar options.
Contains ACLs and is embedded into the original file, making IRM agnostic to the data's location, unlike other preventive controls that depend on file location.
Provides protection that travels with the file, ensuring information remains secure in both secured and unsecured networks.
Protects sensitive organizational content, such as financial documents, emails, web pages, database columns, and other data objects.
Establishes a baseline for the default Information Protection Policy.
Data Loss Prevention DLP refers to a set of controls and practices put in place to ensure that data is only accessible and exposed to authorized users and systems.
DLP should be integrated as part of the risk management approach.
Data loss prevention The goals of a DLP strategy are to manage risk, maintain regulatory compliance, and demonstrate due diligence by the application and data owner.
DLP focuses on external parties.
DLP Approach Implementation, testing, and tuning Test for false positives and false negatives Data inventory Identify the data Classify the data Prioritize and test misuse cases Data protection strategy Perform risk assessment Determine the DLP solution Data flows Plot the data flow over the life cycle Data Classification What Is Asset?
Asset definition An asset is any resource that has value to an organization.
An asset can be tangible or intangible.
This includes people, hardware, software, data, information, and reputation.
Data Classification Asset classification Asset classification means categorizing and grouping assets based on their business value.
The first step in the classification process is to prepare an inventory of assets and to determine the responsible asset owners.
The levels of classification dictate a minimum set of security controls that the organization will use to protect the assets.
Data Classification: Definition Data classification Data classification can be defined as the process of assigning an appropriate level of classification to a data asset to ensure it receives adequate protection.
Data Classification Characteristics of data classification Attach the classification level throughout the lifecycle of the information Identify the value of the data to the organization Ensure an ongoing process, not a onetime effort Need for Data Classification Why do we need classification?
Value data for strategic decision makers Prevent significant problems from data loss Enhance confidentiality, integrity, and availability through information classification Implement controls based on the sensitivity of information Standardize types of information and protection requirements Achieve an efficient cost to benefit ratio Information Classification Objectives The objective of an information classification scheme varies from sector to sector.
The following infographic shows the objectives of each sector: Sector General Government or military sectors Commercial or private sectors To minimize risks to sensitive information To avoid unauthorized disclosure To maintain a competitive edge Information Classification: Government Sector The following chart shows different classifications in the Government sector and potential damage in case of a data disclosure: Classification Top Secret Disclosure will cause exceptionally grave damage Secret Disclosure will cause serious damage Confidential Unclassified Disclosure will cause damage Freely available through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Information Classification: Government Sector The following image illustrates the damage caused to Government and non Government sectors in case of a potential data breach: Government classifications and potential adverse impact from a data breach Top secret Exceptionally grave damage Secret Serious damage Confidential Damage Unclassified No damage Non government classifications and potential adverse impact from a data breach Class 3 Confidential/Proprietary Exceptionally grave damage Class 2 Private Serious damage Class 1 Sensitive Damage Class 0 Public No damage Commercial or Private Sector Classification The information classification scheme followed by the commercial or private sector has four levels.
Commercial or private sector classification: Sensitive or restricted Public Confidential Private Data Classification Considerations When classifying data, a security practitioner takes the following into consideration: Data access privileges (roles) Data retention requirements Data security requirements Disposal of data and its methods Data encryption requirements Appropriate use of data Regulatory or compliance requirements Role Responsible for Data Classification The data owner is responsible for data classification.
The data owner: Knows the use and value of the data to the organization Reviews the data classification annually Role Responsible for Data Classification The responsibilities of the Data Owner are to: Document deviations and take corrective action Ensure the data is retained based on the organizations retention policy and subsequently destroyed in a secure manner Data Classification Procedure 1 Identify the data and create an inventory of data 2 Define classification levels 3 Establish criteria for classification levels 4 Assign data owners who will be responsible for classification 5 Assign data custodians who will be responsible for maintaining data 6 Specify security controls for each classification level 7 Document exceptions to previous classification issues 8 Define methods to transfer data ownership 9 Establish procedures to periodically review the classification and ownership 10 Develop declassification procedures 11 Promote classification awareness to all employees Business Continuity Planning (BCP) Business Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery Business continuity involves Disaster recovery (DR) refers having a plan to deal with to an organizations ability to major disruptions such as recover from a disaster or cyber attacks, floods, and unexpected event and resume supply failures.
operations.
Business continuity planning Disaster recovery planning Basic Concepts: Disruptive Events Any incident, act, or occurrence that suspends normal operations can be termed as a disruptive event or disaster.
Natural A few types of disruptive events are: Human Disruptive events can be intentional or unintentional.
BCP aims to minimize the effects of a disruptive event on a company.
Environmental Need for Business Continuity Planning (BCP) Business operations are interrupted by unexpected events.
Companies must develop business continuity and disaster recovery plans to face these issues.
The focus areas of BCP are: Protect lives of employees Minimize the disruptions Restore normal business Prevent financial losses Importance of Business Continuity Planning The organizations ability to respond to any disaster and recover from disruptions depends on BCP or disaster recovery planning (DRP).
It is the last line of defense for any organization against any threat.
It ensures all planning has been considered.
It helps reduce the risks faced by the organization.
Example: Usage of cloud computing resources to safeguard data BCP or DRP Project Initiation and Scoping Actions to be taken in project phase Create project scope and define parameters Obtain managements support Identify potential outages to critical systems for risk analysis to be performed Appoint project planner and select staff for plan development and execution Assign the BCP or DRP project manager or coordinator as the key point of contact (POC) Ensure the completion of BCP or DRP by the project manager and test it routinely Identify the representatives of the BCP committee from senior management, legal, CFO, systems and applications, business units, systems support, communications, data center, communications, and information security Business Impact Analysis (BIA) BIA is a phase within the business continuity planning (BCP) process.
It is the process of analyzing the effect of interruptions to business operations or processes on all business functions.
BIA aims to identify the impact of different scenarios on ongoing business operations.
Involvement of senior management, the IT department, and end users is critical for conducting a successful BIA.
Approaches to BIA Questionnaire approach Interview approach Meeting approach It involves developing a detailed set of questions and circulating it to key users.
It involves interviewing key users.
The information obtained is tabulated and analyzed to develop a BIA.
It involves holding meetings with key users to ascertain the potential business impact of various disruptions.
Business Impact Analysis Step 1: Collect key business processes and IT systems The objective of the BCP project is to establish a detailed list of all identifiable processes and systems.
Step 2: Find out statements of impact A statement of impact is a qualitative or quantitative description of the impact on the business if the process or system were incapacitated for a time.
BIA: Goals The three major goals of BIA are: Criticality prioritization Identification and prioritization of every critical business unit process Evaluation of the impact of a disruptive event Downtime estimation Estimating maximum tolerable downtime (MTD) using the BIA Non recovery, if the interruption of critical process extends the maximum tolerable downtime Resource estimation Estimating resource requirements Failure and Recovery Metrics Maximum tolerable downtime (MTD) is: The maximum period for which the organizations key processes and functions can be unavailable before the organization suffers significant losses Measured in minutes, hours, days, or longer, depending on the nature of the business Revised several times during the course of a project Failure and Recovery Metrics A number of metrics are used to quantify the frequency of system failures.
Recovery point objective (RPO) Level of data, work loss, or system inaccessibility resulting from a disruptive event Usually expressed in units of time Recovery time objective (RTO) The maximum time allowed to recover business or IT systems Expressed in units of time such as minutes, hours, or days Examples of RTO and RPO Example 1 An organization can accept data loss for up to 4 hours.
It cannot afford to have any downtime.
RTO is 0 hours and RPO is 4 hours Example 2 Example 3 An organization takes a data backup twice daily; that is, at 12 am and then at 12 pm.
What is the RPO?
An organization takes a data backup three times a day.
The first backup is at 8 am, the second is at 4 pm.
and the third at 12 am.
What is the RPO?
Here, a data backup is done every 12 hours, and so the maximum data loss is 12 hours.
Hence the RPO is 12 hours.
Here, data backup is done every 8 hours, and so the maximum data loss is 8 hours.
Hence the RPO is 8 hours.
Examples of RTO and RPO Example 4 Example 5 Example 6 Following an incident, systems at the primary site went down at 3 pm and then resumed from the alternate site at 6 pm, as per the defined RTO.
What is the RTO?
Identify the RTO and RPO in an instance where the BCP for an organization's critical system specifies that there should not be any data loss and service should be resumed within 36 hours.
Identify the RTO and RPO in an instance where the BCP for an organization's critical system specifies that there should not be any service outage and they are ok with data loss of 1 hour.
The system was down for 3 hours, and so the RTO is 3 hours.
RTO is 36 hours and RPO is 0 hour.
RTO is 0 hours RPO is 1 hour.
High Availability High Availability High availability (HA) refers to a system's ability to keep operating continuously with minimal or no downtime during failures.
This is crucial for businesses that rely on constant access to their systems and data, such as online stores, financial institutions, and hospitals.
Continuous operation: High availability ensures that systems remain operational with minimal interruptions, even during failures.
Critical for business operations: Essential for businesses that require uninterrupted access to their systems and data.
Advanced infrastructure: High availability infrastructure is designed to withstand cyberattacks and possesses the technical sophistication to autonomously detect, mitigate, and heal vulnerabilities in real time.
Implementing high availability is vital for maintaining the reliability and resilience of critical business systems.
Technologies Used for High Availability High availability is achieved through various technologies that ensure systems remain operational and accessible.
Key technologies include: Load balancer Clusters Load Balancer A load balancer is a device that distributes network or application traffic across a cluster of servers.
Load balancing improves responsiveness and increases the availability of applications.
Load balancer A load balancer sits between the client and the server farm, accepting incoming network and application traffic and distributing the traffic across multiple backend servers using various methods By balancing application requests across multiple servers, a load balancer reduces individual server load and prevents any one application server from becoming a single point of failure, thus improving overall application availability and responsiveness Load Balancer Scheduling The goal of scheduling strategy is to maximize the performance of a parallel system by transferring tasks from busy processors to other processors that are less busy or even idle.
Round robin Round robin scheduling involves sending each new request to the next server in rotation.
All requests are sent to servers in equal amounts, regardless of the server load Affinity based scheduling Affinity based scheduling is designed to keep a host connected to the same server across a session.
Some applications, such as web applications, can benefit from affinity based scheduling in both directions Load Balancer Redundancy Active active In an active active scheme, all the load balancers are active, sharing the load balancing duties.
Activeactive load balancing can have performance efficiencies, but it is important to monitor the overall load Active passive In an active passive scheme, the primary load balancer is actively handling the balancing while the secondary load balancer passively observes and is ready to step in at any time if the primary system fails Node 1 (Active) Node 2 (Active) Node 1 (Active) Node 2 (Passive) Load Balancer Virtual IP Virtual IP VIP https://11.11.11.1 Virtual IP (VIP) is the load balancing instance where the world points its browsers to access a site A VIP has an IP address, which must be publicly available to be usable Usually, a TCP or UDP port number is associated with the VIP, such as TCP port 80 for web traffic VIPs are essential for directing traffic to the appropriate load balancer and ensuring that network requests reach their intended destinations efficiently.
10.10.10.1 10.10.10.2 10.10.10.3 10.10.10.4 Clusters A cluster is a group of interconnected computers that work together as a single system.
This configuration allows them to handle tasks that would be too complex or time consuming for a single computer.
Clustering involves grouping multiple servers or nodes together to operate as a single system Clustering involves an active node and a passive node that share a common quorum disk, reinforced by a witness server, heartbeat communication, and a VIP at the forefront Clusters are essential for improving the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of computing resources, enabling them to perform complex tasks more effectively.
Concepts of Clusters Node configuration Quorum disk Witness server At the core of this clustering configuration lie a pair of C and one nodes, one active passive.
Both nodes are accessed by a virtual IP on the frontend and share the same disk The quorum disk is a shared storage resource that members C of the cluster share.
It acts as a neutral arbiter, storing critical configuration and state information that both the active and passive nodes access The witness server is an impartial entity that assists in determining the state of the cluster.
The witness server helps prevent split brain scenarios and ensures that the cluster operates smoothly Heartbeat communication Virtual IP Communication between the active and passive nodes is C facilitated through a heartbeat mechanism.
If it detects an absence or irregularity in the node heartbeat, it knows that the active node has failed At the forefront of the clustering setup C is the VIP.
Its the public facing interface of the cluster, acting as the entry point for external request Types of Clusters Active/Active Active standby An active standby cluster has two nodes, but only one is active at a time, handling all the workload.
The other node remains on standby, ready to take over if the primary fails In an active active cluster, multiple servers (usually at least two) work simultaneously.
They all share the workload through a load balancer, which distributes tasks efficiently Node 1 (Active) Node 2 (Active) Node 1 (Active) Node 2 (Passive) Site Considerations Site Considerations for Availability Recovery sites are designed to ensure uninterrupted service, even in the face of hardware or software failures, through redundant systems and failover mechanisms.
The optimal recovery site location is necessary for business continuity planning (BCP) It must fully support operations in the event of a disaster at the primary location Implementing these site considerations is crucial for maintaining high availability and ensuring business resilience during disruptions.
Types of Recoveries: Operational Recovery Businesses have the following options for a secure facility: Mirror or redundant site Hot site Warm site Cold site Additional location options include reciprocal or mutual aid agreements, mobile sites, multiple processing centers, service bureaus, self service, surviving sites, internal arrangements, and work from home.
Recovery Partner Strategies The recovery partner strategies are: Reciprocal agreements Multiple processing centers Service bureaus Mutual or bidirectional arrangements between two organizations where one organization can move its operations to the other organization in case of disaster Also known as mutual aid agreements (MAAs) Processing centers spread across different geographical locations Handle the businesss operational requirements during recovery Recovery contracts with an offsite service bureau help to have the site ready and available for the organization during emergencies Offer expertise in processes, technology, and business domains to customers These strategies ensure that businesses have robust plans in place to maintain operations and recover swiftly in the event of a disaster.
Backup Sites Backup sites are locations where the business can be recovered in the event of a disaster at the primary site.
The different backup sites available are: Mirror site A mirror or redundant site is a duplicate production of a system capable of seamlessly conducting IT operations without loss of services to the systems end user A redundant site is configured like the primary site and is the most expensive recovery option Example: Regulatory bodies have made it mandatory for commercial banks to have redundant sites 1 Backup Sites Hot site A hot site is where an organization relocates its data center following a major disruption or disaster It consists of servers, raised floors, power, utilities, fully configured computers, hardware, and critical applications data mirrored in realtime It helps resume critical operations within a very short period Hot sites can be internal (owned) or external (outsourced) 1 Backup Sites Warm site A warm site has hardware and connectivity but lacks real time data It relies on backup data to rebuild a system after a disruption It consists of raised floors, power, utilities, computer peripherals, and fully configured computers It is less expensive, more flexible, and requires fewer resources for maintenance It requires more time and resources to activate the site 1 Backup Sites Cold site A cold site does not have data backups and immediately available hardware Configuring cold sites and restoring critical IT services take more time.
It has a raised floor, power, utilities, and physical security It has no resources or geographic constraints 1 Backup Sites Mobile site 1 Mobile sites are also called data centers on wheels It has towable trailers that contain computer equipment as well as HVAC, fire suppression equipment, and physical security It keeps the facility intact despite the data center being damaged These backup site options ensure that businesses can choose the appropriate level of preparedness and recovery capabilities to maintain operations during disruptions.
Backups Backups A backup, in the context of computers, refers to a copy of your data that is stored in a separate location.
This copy can be used to restore your data if the original is lost or corrupted.
Its the process of copying your computer data (documents, photos, emails, etc.)
and storing those copies elsewhere to protect them from loss.
Reasons for Backups 01 Hard drive failure: As with any mechanical device, hard drives can malfunction and crash.
Backups ensure you don't lose irreplaceable data 02 Data corruption: Power surges, malware, or even human error can corrupt your files.
Backups provide a clean copy to restore from 03 Accidental Deletion: Hitting the wrong button can mean losing important files.
Backups offer a safety net from accidental deletion Types of Backups Local backup Cloud backup In local backup, we copy data to external hard drives, USB drives, or other on site storage devices.
It provides quick access for restores but is vulnerable to physical damage like fire or theft if kept at the same location Involves storing your data on remote servers offered by services like Google Drive or Dropbox Allows access from anywhere with an internet connection Online backup service These services automate the backup process, scheduling regular data copies to their servers This is a convenient option but also relies on internet connectivity Backup Methods Backup methods ensure data integrity and network availability by protecting and restoring deleted, corrupted, or lost information.
The different methods are: Full backup Methodology Differential backup Incremental backup It stores all files that have It is the starting point for all It contains all files changed since the last full, other types of backups that have changed differential, or incremental It contains all the data in the since the last full folders and files that are backup, the latest full backup When restoring from an selected to be backed up backup, and the incremental backup, the most A single full backup can latest differential recent full backup as well as provide the ability to backup is needed for every incremental backup completely restore all a complete made since the last full backup backed up files restoration.
are needed Backup speed Restoration speed Slow Fast Medium Medium Fast Slow Storage space required High Medium Low Redundancy and Fault Tolerance Methods The types of Redundant Arrays of Inexpensive Disks or Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks (RAIDs) are: RAID 0: Striping RAID 1: Mirroring RAID 3: Byte level parity Data striping is done over many drives Redundancy or parity is not provided All volumes become unusable if one volume fails The data is written simultaneously on two drives If one drive fails, the other one has the data Parity data is held on one drive while data is striped over all drives A drive can be reconstructed from the parity drive if it fails Redundancy and Fault Tolerance Methods RAID 5: Interleave parity RAID 6: Second or double parity data RAID 10: Striping and mirroring Ensures that there is no single point of failure Writes data along with parity on all drives More fault tolerance than level 5 with a second set of parity data written on all drives Supports multiple disk failures by simultaneously mirroring and striping data across several drives Power Power Power protection refers to devices and strategies used to safeguard electronic equipment from damage caused by fluctuations or complete loss of electrical power.
Power Supply A reliable power supply is critical for any data center.
The following are common threats to the power system: Power excess Surge: Prolonged high voltage Spike: Momentary high voltage Power loss Blackout: Prolonged, complete loss of electric power Fault: Momentary power outage Power degradation Brownout: Prolonged reduction in voltage Sag or Dip: Momentary reduction in voltage HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Temperature and humidity are maintained within reasonable limits Positive pressure and drainage are employed Recommended humidity levels are 40 to 60%Low humidity causes static electricity High humidity may cause corrosion Recommended set point temperature range for a data center is 68 to 77F (2025C) Controls to Handle Power Issue Generators Generators serve as dependable backups, ensuring that essential systems remain operational even when the primary power source fails.
They are safety nets that prevent organizations from plunging into darkness during power outages or disruptions Uninterruptable Power Supply(UPS) A UPS is an electrical device used to provide backup power to connected equipment or devices during power outages or fluctuations in the electrical supply.
It is designed to keep the system going for a few minutes to allow the server team to close the servers down gracefully Power distribution units PDUs serve as frontline defense, effectively mitigating power spikes, blackouts, and brownouts to safeguard your critical equipment and data.
Their primary function is to maintain a balanced distribution of power, guarding against the perils of overload and overheating Cloud Data Replications Cloud Data Replication Data replication is the practice of creating and maintaining multiple copies of data in different locations, either within the same region or across regions.
The primary objective is to enhance data redundancy and availability.
In cloud environments, data can be replicated to different regions and each region can be broken down further into different zones.
Regions and Availability Zones in Cloud Regions Availability zones A region is a distinct, separate geographic location where a cloud provider operates multiple data centers Availability zones are self contained data centers located within a specific region Regions are often isolated from each other to comply with data sovereignty regulations AZs are built with independent power, cooling, and networking to minimize the impact of a single point of failure Regions can also be strategically chosen for disaster recovery purposes, placing backups in a geographically separate location If one AZ has an issue, the others in the region can keep your applications running Regions and Availability Zones Region 2 Region 1 Availability zone 1 Availability zone 2 Availability zone 3 Availability zone 1 Availability zone 2 Availability zone 3 Cloud Data Replication Local Redundant Storage Zone Redundant Storage Geo Redundant Storage Geo Zone Redundant Storage In LRS, three copies of your data are replicated within a single physical location or data center While LRS offers basic redundancy, it may not be suitable for highavailability scenarios as the data is stored in the same zone It is often the most cost effective solution but leaves data vulnerable to total loss in the event of a localized disaster or power failure Cloud Data Replication Local Redundant Storage Zone Redundant Storage Geo Redundant Storage Geo Zone Redundant Storage ZRS takes redundancy a step further by replicating data between three separate availability zones within your primary cloud region It provides enhanced availability within the region, making it a suitable choice for primary storage However, ZRS does not protect against a regional catastrophe that affects all availability zones simultaneously and would leave data inaccessible Cloud Data Replication Local Redundant Storage Zone Redundant Storage Geo Redundant Storage Geo Zone Redundant Storage GRS takes this a step further by also storing one copy of the data in a secondary region, often located at a considerable geographical distance This approach provides protection against regional disasters while maintaining high availability within the primary region Cloud Data Replication Local Redundant Storage Zone Redundant Storage Geo Redundant Storage Geo Zone Redundant Storage GZRS combines the benefits of ZRS and GRS It replicates data between three separate availability zones within your primary region and one copy to a secondary region, ensuring both regional and zone level redundancy This comprehensive approach maximizes data resilience and availability Testing BCP and DR testing BCP testing, or Business Continuity Plan testing, is a crucial process for ensuring the effectiveness of your organization's Business Continuity Plan (BCP).
DR focuses on the restoration of IT infrastructure and operations after a crisis.
This plan is a subset of BCP and is concerned with the recovery of specific operations, functions, sites, services, or applications to a pre defined state in the event of a disruption.
Importance of Testing Testing is important because it: Helps keep the plans updated Identifies shortcomings of the plans Tests the organizations readiness to face disasters Refines existing controls Satisfies regulatory requirements Types of BCP/DR Tests Review test Checklist test Structured walkthrough Simulation test Parallel test Direct cutover Review Test A method where the initial and most basic DRP test: Ensures complete coverage of the plan Is performed by the team that developed the plan Helps discover any flaws in the DRP Ensures there are no obvious shortcomings and omissions in the plan Checklist Test Also known as consistency testing.
A checklist test: Is a list of important and necessary components required for the recovery process Ensures necessary components are and will be available in the event of a disaster Is an easy and cost effective method of testing the plan Structured walkthrough Usually performed prior to in depth testing.
A structured walkthrough: Reviews the overall approach to the targeted recovery of systems and services Helps the group discuss and perform the proposed recovery procedures in a structured manner Identifies the gaps, omissions, technical missteps, or erroneous assumptions in the process Simulation Test Also known as walkthrough drill.
A simulation test: Helps team members carry out a recovery process Simulates a disaster, and the teams respond as directed by the DRP Parallel Test Used in a businesses where critical processes involve transactional data.
A parallel testing: Involves the usage of alternate computing sites to recover crucial processing components and restore data from the latest backup Does not interrupt regular production systems Direct cutover Partial and complete business interruption testing: The highest fidelity of all DRP tests.
This testing: Should be exercised with extreme caution, as it can cause a disaster Requires the organization to use alternate computing facilities and stops normal business processing at the primary location Can only be conducted in organizations with fully redundant, load balanced operations Platform Diversity Platform Diversity It is a critical component in achieving resilience and recovery and involves using multiple platforms or technologies within an organization or system.
This approach offers several advantages in risk mitigation, performance optimization, and innovation.
Benefits of Platform Diversity Resilience against evolving threats Redundancy Adaptability Diversifying your technology platforms ensures that a single point of failure doesnt bring down your entire security infrastructure.
Different platforms are designed for various purposes, and their adaptability can be harnessed to counter different types of threats.
Enhanced recovery options In the event of a breach or disaster, having diverse platforms can facilitate a quicker recovery.
Cyber threats constantly evolve, seeking vulnerabilities in specific platforms.
Diversifying your technology stack can reduce the risk of falling victim to a single type of attack or exploit.
Improved user experience Certain regulatory frameworks and industry standards may require diversity security measures.
A diversified platform approach can help ensure compliance with these requirements.
Multicloud Multicloud It refers to using services from more than one public cloud provider simultaneously.
A multicloud environment allows your cloud setups to be private, public, or a combination of both.
Public Cloud Independent workloads Independent workloads Public Cloud Independent workloads Public Cloud Benefits of Multicloud Benefits of each cloud Avoid vendor lock in Cost efficiency Innovative technology Advance security and regulatory compliance Increase reliability and redundancy Why use a Multicloud strategy?
More flexibility and avoidance of vendor lock in Strong data protection and risk mitigation plan Best latency and load times for your customers Constant access to network performance improvements Compliance with region specific rules Capacity Management Capacity Management It is a crucial process in IT service management (ITSM) that ensures your IT infrastructure has the right amount of resources at the right time to meet service demand.
It focuses on the system resources needed to deliver performance at an acceptable level to meet SLA requirements, doing so in a cost effective and efficient manner.
Objectives of Capacity Management Align IT resources with business needs Optimize resource utilization Objective Meet service level agreements (SLAs) Reduce costs Capacity Management Process Capacity planning: Capacity monitoring: Forecast future demand and identify resource needs based on business strategy and IT services Continuously monitor resource utilization (CPU, memory, network bandwidth) to identify potential bottlenecks Capacity reporting: Capacity optimization: Regularly report on capacity utilization, trends, and potential risks to stakeholders.
Implement strategies to optimize resource utilization, such as resource scaling, consolidation, or virtualization Performance analysis: Analyze resource usage patterns and trends to understand the root causes of performance issues.
Key Takeaways Cloud models and the shared responsibility models are crucial for cloud security management.
The attack surface helps identify and mitigate network vulnerabilities.
Various network security devices enhance enterprise security and monitoring.
Data types and following data protection regulations ensure data security and compliance.
BCP, DR, high availability, and backups are critical for operational resilience.
Multicloud and platform diversity optimize cloud service usage and strategy.
CompTIA Security + Domain 04: Security Operations Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Apply Common security techniques to computing resources Understand the security implications of proper hardware, software, and data asset management Understand Vulnerability assessment and Penetration testing process Understanding Security Alerting and Monitoring Concepts and Tools Understanding Security technologies for protection of enterprise Explain and understand Identity access management Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Understand the importance of automation and orchestration related to operation Understand incident management Understanding data sources to support an investigation Establishing Baselines Baseline A security baseline is a predefined set of configurations and best practices meticulously designed to create a resilient and secure foundation for computing resources.
Key benefits of implementing secure baselines include: Maintained consistency Implemented secure baselines offer a reliable starting point to harden targets against potential vulnerabilities.
Improved security Control costs Compliance A security baseline is a defined standard representing a secure and approved configuration or state, serving as a benchmark to compare the current system state.
Types of Baselines Infrastructure baseline Security baseline Performance baseline This is a snapshot of your infrastructure's configuration, including virtual machines, storage buckets, networking settings, and security policies.
This defines the minimum security requirements for your resources.
It helps you identify and address potential security risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
This measures the typical performance of your applications and infrastructure.
You can use this to identify performance bottlenecks, track trends, and measure the impact of changes.
Network baseline A network baseline is a snapshot of a network's normal operating conditions, including its configuration, performance metrics, and traffic patterns.
Baseline Process A clean installation of the target OS Configuring the host OS as required Stopping and disabling all nonessential services Removing all nonessential software from the system Downloading and installing all required security patches Auditing the OS baseline Creating, capturing, and storing full documentation Capturing and storing an image of the OS baseline for future deployment Placing the baseline OS image under the configuration management system Updating the baseline OS image on a documented schedule for security patches Phases of Establishing Baselines Establishing baseline Center for internet security Security technical implementation guide Deploying baselines Microsoft group policy Puppet forge Maintaining baselines SCAP compliance checker CIS configuration assessment tool Establishing Baselines CIS benchmarks Widely recognized and respected cybersecurity standards and best practices Serve as a foundational security baseline for various technologies, including operating systems, network devices, and applications Strengthen an organization's security posture by reducing vulnerabilities Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) Comprehensive repository of cybersecurity guidelines and best practices curated by the United States Department of Defense (DoD)Enhances the security posture of DoD information systems and networks Implementing STIG recommendations involves a systematic approach to assess systems and networks against the guidelines, identifying vulnerabilities Deploying Baselines To effectively deploy security baselines, the following methods are used: Microsoft group policy Puppet Feature in Microsoft Windows Server environments for managing configurations for users and computers in an Active Directory domain Versatile platform agnostic solution providing a repository of pre built modules and configurations Sets up consistent settings for many devices and users across a network Deploys security baselines across a range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS Flexibility makes it a favored choice for heterogeneous environments Maintaining Baselines To ensure security baselines are maintained, the following tools are essential: SCAP compliance checker CIS configuration assessment tool The Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) is a standardized framework for maintaining system security CIS CAT is designed to evaluate systems and applications against CIS benchmarks curated by the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Operates by comparing a system's security settings against a predefined checklist of security requirements These benchmarks represent a gold standard for secure configurations and best practices across various technologies, from operating systems to web browsers Generates reports highlighting areas of non compliance for swift corrective actions Hardening of Devices Hardening Targets Hardening your computing infrastructure involves fortifying your IT systems to make them more resistant to cyberattacks.
Core aspects Proactively reducing vulnerabilities, mitigating risks, and bolstering an organizations overall security posture Fortifying the security of devices and systems to protect against potential threats and maintain operational continuity Technologies That Require Hardening Mobile devices Workstations Switches Routers Cloud infrastructure Servers Industrial control system Embedded system Technologies That Require Hardening IoT devices Real time operating system Wireless access points Wired infrastructure Mobile Hardening This involves securing mobile devices and applications to protect against threats like malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access.
Key aspects include: Securing mobile devices and applications against threats like malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access Enhancing the security of mobile phones to protect sensitive information Mobile Hardening To effectively secure mobile devices, implement the following key controls: Ensure apps are downloaded from trusted sources to minimize the risk of malware Check and limit the permissions apps request to protect sensitive data Remove or disable apps that are no longer in use to reduce potential vulnerabilities Use encryption to protect the data stored on your device Implement strong authentication methods such as biometrics or twofactor authentication Regularly back up your data to ensure it can be restored in case of loss or damage Workstation Hardening It safeguards individual computers (desktops and laptops) against potential threats.
Key aspects include: Configuring the operating system, applications, and network settings to minimize vulnerabilities and protect sensitive data Workstation Hardening Essential steps to harden workstations include: Minimize attack surface: Remove unnecessary software, services, features, and startup programs Enforce strong passwords: Implement complex passwords and require regular password changes Patch management: Configure automatic updates for your operating system and applications to ensure the latest security patches are applied promptly Principle of least privilege: Grant users only the minimum level of access required for their tasks, reducing potential damage if an account is compromised Secure configuration: Follow best practice guidelines like CIS Benchmarks to configure your OS securely Switch Hardening It involves configuring network switches to minimize vulnerabilities and protect against unauthorized access.
Key aspects include: A switch connects multiple computers and other devices within a local area network (LAN) Implementing security measures to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyberattacks Switch Hardening Essential steps for switch hardening include: Use complex passwords and multifactor authentication 01 05 Keep firmware updated to protect against vulnerabilities 02 04 03 Restrict access to management interfaces Protect the network from broadcast, multicast, and unicast storms Control access to network ports to prevent unauthorized connections Router Hardening It is a process of securing network routers against potential vulnerabilities and attacks.
Key aspects include: A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks Implementing security measures to protect the router's configuration, data, and services Enhancing the security of your network to protect against a wide range of threats Router Hardening Essential steps for router hardening include: Prevent unauthorized access with complex passwords and multifactor authentication 01 Reduce potential attack vectors by turning off unnecessary features 02 Secure the router physically to prevent tampering 03 Protect against vulnerabilities by keeping firmware up to date 04 05 Detect and respond to suspicious activities through continuous monitoring and logging Cloud Hardening This involves implementing security measures to protect cloud based systems and applications from vulnerabilities and attacks.
Key aspects include: Securing cloud based systems and applications: Implement robust security protocols to reduce vulnerabilities and protect against attacks Protecting data, applications, and infrastructure: Ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of resources within the cloud environment through comprehensive security measures Cloud Hardening Implementing effective cloud hardening controls involves the following measures: Ensure that only authorized users have access to cloud resources through robust identity and access management practices Protect sensitive information by encrypting it both when stored and during transmission Regularly apply security patches to all cloud resources to mitigate vulnerabilities Implement stringent access controls for management consoles to prevent unauthorized access Perform continuous security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential security weaknesses Develop and maintain a comprehensive disaster recovery plan to ensure business continuity in case of a security incident Server Hardening It involves securing a server, which is a computer program or device that provides functionality for other programs or devices (clients), to reduce its vulnerability to attacks.
Key aspects include: Implementing security measures to protect the server's data, applications, and operating system Reducing the risk of cyberattacks and safeguarding valuable assets Server Hardening Implementing effective server hardening controls involves the following measures: Enforce strong password policies and multifactor authentication 01 05 Keep server updated with relevant patches 02 04 03 Disable automatic logins and unnecessary services running at startup Implement principle of least privilege Enable logging and monitor server activity for suspicious behavior ICS Hardening ICS hardening refers to the process of securing Industrial Control Systems (ICS) to protect them from cyberattacks.
These systems often control critical infrastructure, making their security paramount.
Key aspects include: Securing ICS that control critical infrastructure such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing processes Implementing security measures to protect against cyber threats and ensure the safe and reliable operation of critical systems ICS Hardening Implementing effective ICS hardening controls involves the following measures: Implement network segmentation within the ICS itself to further isolate critical control systems 01 Establish a strong security perimeter around the ICS network 02 Develop and enforce a baseline configuration for all ICS devices 03 Apply rigorous patch management practices to keep ICS devices updated with the latest security fixes 04 05 Implement a strict change management process to track and approve any modifications to the ICS environment Embedded System Hardening It involves securing specialized computer systems designed for specific functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems against cyber threats.
Key aspects include: Unique approaches required: Due to their limited resources and specific functionalities, embedded systems need unique security approaches compared to traditional IT systems Benefits: Implementing these measures enhances security and protects critical infrastructure Embedded System Hardening Implementing effective embedded system hardening controls involves the following measures: Coding standards: Enforce secure coding practices to minimize vulnerabilities introduced during development Static code analysis: Utilize static code analysis tools to identify potential vulnerabilities and coding errors early in the development process Essential functionality: Include only the necessary code and libraries for the embedded system's core operation to reduce the attack surface Secure boot: Implement secure boot procedures to verify the integrity of firmware before execution, preventing unauthorized code from loading Code security: Use secure coding practices and code scanning tools to identify and eliminate vulnerabilities in the embedded software IoT Hardening It involves securing Internet of Things (IoT) devices and their infrastructure to protect data and maintain system integrity.
IoT refers to the network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items that connect and exchange data.
Key aspects include: Securing IoT devices: Implementing security measures to protect these devices from cyber threats Maintaining system integrity: Ensuring the overall security and reliability of the IoT infrastructure IoT Hardening To effectively secure IoT devices and their infrastructure, implement the following key controls: Reduce the number of entry points for potential attackers by disabling unnecessary features and services Ensure devices boot only with verified and trusted software to prevent unauthorized code execution Implement strong authentication and authorization mechanisms to restrict access to IoT devices Employ encryption and secure communication protocols to protect data in transit Perform vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and fix security weaknesses Regularly apply updates and security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities RTOS Hardening RTOS (Real Time Operating System) hardening involves securing these systems designed for tasks with strict time constraints to protect against cyberattacks and maintain reliability.
Key aspects include: Specialization: Unlike general purpose operating systems like Windows or macOS, RTOS is specialized for real time tasks Importance: Securing embedded systems that rely on RTOS is essential for their operation and protection against cyber threats RTOS Hardening To effectively secure RTOS (Real Time Operating Systems), implement the following key controls: Follow secure coding practices 01 05 Input validations Code review and analysis 02 04 Implement memory protection 03 Apply security patches Wireless Hardening It involves securing wireless networks that transmit information without physical cables to protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats.
Key aspects include: Importance: Protects wireless networks from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats Wireless Hardening To secure wireless networks, implement the following key controls: Ensure your network name (SSID) does not reveal sensitive information 01 Use robust methods to authenticate users and encrypt data 02 Regularly update firmware to protect against vulnerabilities 03 Limit network access to approved devices 04 05 Restrict physical access to network hardware Network Hardening Network hardening involves securing a network, which is a group of interconnected devices that share resources and communicate, against unauthorized access and cyberattacks.
Key aspects include: Protecting resources: Safeguarding the data and devices on the network Preventing cyberattacks: Implementing measures to defend against malicious activities Network Hardening To effectively secure a network, implement the following key controls: Divide the network into segments to limit the spread of potential threats 01 05 Use robust authentication methods to verify the identity of users and devices 02 04 03 Grant users and devices only the minimum access necessary for their tasks Continuously monitor network traffic to detect and respond to suspicious activities Regularly identify, assess, and remediate network vulnerabilities Wireless Technologies Wireless Technologies Wireless technology is the fastest growing area of network connectivity.
The various types of wireless technologies are given below.
Wireless Standards WLAN Operational Modes Wireless Technologies Wireless Network A wireless network is a computer network that uses wireless data connections between network nodes It is based on 802.11 Standard.
It is the fastest growing area of network connectivity.
In a wireless network, data are carried by electrical wave from one node to another Wireless Access Point In computer networking, a wireless access point (WAP), or more generally just access point (AP), is a networking hardware device that allows a Wi Fi device to connect to a wired network.
Wireless Standards These are essential guidelines and specifications that ensure the interoperability and reliability of wireless communication technologies.
Standard Year Introduced Band Frequency Max Data Transfer Modulation 802.11a 1999 5 GHz 54 Mbps DSSS, FHSS 802.11b 1999 2.4 GHz 11 Mbps OFDM 802.11g 2003 2.4 GHz 54 Mbps DSSS 802.11n 2009 2.4 & 5 GHz 600 Mbps OFDM 802.11ac 2013 5 GHz 1.3 Gbps MIMO OFDM 2021 2.4, 5 (Wi Fi 6) 6 GHz (Wi Fi 6E) 10 Gbps OFDMA, MU MIMO 802.11ax IEEE Wireless Standards IEEE Wireless Standards: IEEE 802.11 refers to a family of specifications for WLANs developed by a working group of the IEEE.
Wireless standards, primarily governed by the IEEE 802.11 series, define the protocols and specifications for wireless networks.
These standards ensure compatibility between different devices and manufacturers, enabling seamless communication.
It also generically refers to the IEEE Committee for setting wireless LAN standards.
Wireless Deployment Modes Wireless Deployment Modes Ad hoc or Peer to Peer Mode Stand Alone Infrastructure Mode Wireless Extension Enterprise Extended Bridge Mode Wireless Deployment Modes: Ad hoc Mode It means that any two wireless networking devices, including two wireless network interface cards (NICs), can communicate without a centralized control authority.
It refers to a wireless network structure where devices can communicate directly with each other.
Wireless Deployment Modes: Infrastructure Mode Infrastructure Mode Infrastructure mode means that a wireless access point is required, wireless NICs on systems cant interact directly, and the restrictions of the wireless access point for wireless network access are enforced.
Stand Alone Wireless Extension Enterprise Extended Bridge Mode Infrastructure Mode: Standalone Mode Standalone infrastructure occurs when there is a wireless access point connecting wireless clients but not to any wired resources.
The wireless access point serves as a wireless hub exclusively not further connected.
Infrastructure Mode: Standalone Mode Wireless Access Points Wireless Clients No Further connectivity to any Wired Network Clients of Wired Network Infrastructure Mode: Wireless Extension Mode It is a configuration setting in wireless networking that allows a Wi Fi network to be expanded by connecting multiple access points (APs), effectively extending the coverage area of the network.
It occurs when the wireless access point acts as a connection point to link the wireless clients to the wired network.
Infrastructure: Wireless Extension Mode Wireless Access Points Wireless Clients WAP allows connectivity to Wired Network Wired Network Infrastructure Mode: Enterprise Extension Mode Enterprise extended infrastructure occurs when multiple wireless access points (WAPs) connect a large physical area to the same wired network.
Enterprise extended mode is designed for large scale WiFi deployments and is typically used in businesses, schools, or other organizations with extensive areas to cover.
Infrastructure Mode: Enterprise Extension Mode Multiple Wi Fi access points are used to connect large area across buildings are covered Wireless Clients Wired network Infrastructure Mode: Bridge Mode It is a networking configuration that allows two or more network segments to be connected and act as a single network.
It essentially bridges two networks, allowing devices on both sides to communicate with each other as if they were on the same local network.
It occurs when a wireless connection is used to link two wired networks.
This often uses dedicated wireless bridges and is used when wired bridges are inconvenient, such as when linking networks between floors or buildings.
Infrastructure Mode: Bridge Mode Wired LAN 2 Wired LAN 1 Wireless access point connecting LAN 1 and LAN 2 Service Set Identifier( SSID) It is a unique ID that can be made up of case sensitive letters, numbers, and special characters like dashes, periods, and spaces.
According to the 802.11 wireless local area networks (WLAN) standard, an SSID can be as long as 32 characters Securing SSID Disable SSID broadcast Change the Default SSID SSID Security Use Reliable Authentication Mechanism Use Strong encryption Wi Fi Attacks Wireless networks are more vulnerable to attacks than wired networks, as data travels through the airwaves as radio waves, making it easier for attackers to intercept or eavesdrop on information.
Wireless Attacks Evil twin Eavesdropping An evil twin is a fraudulent Wi Fi access point that appears to be legitimate but is set up to eavesdrop on wireless communications.
This is a passive attack where attackers use tools like packet sniffers to capture data packets traveling over the airwaves.
It tricks them into connecting to a fake Wi Fi network that appears legitimate, stealing their data or redirecting them to malicious websites These packets can contain sensitive information such as login credentials, emails, or financial data if not properly encrypted.
Jamming Jamming is a denial of service that specifically targets the radio spectrum aspect of wireless.
Like other DoS attacks can manipulate things behind the scenes, so can jamming on a wireless AP, enabling things such as attachment to a rogue AP Wireless Attacks Denial of service attack Attackers flood a network with bogus traffic, overwhelming it and making it unavailable to legitimate users.
This can disrupt operations for businesses or organizations relying on the network. Disassociation War driving Disassociation attacks against a wireless system are attacks designed to disassociate a host from the wireless access point, and from the wireless network.
It is searching for Wi Fi wireless networks, usually from a moving vehicle, using a laptop or smartphone.
A disassociation attack, also known as a de authentication attack, targets the connection between a device and a Wi Fi network and disconnect the users from network It involves slowly driving around an area to locate WiFi signals.
This can be done by an individual or with one person driving and others searching for wireless networks.
Wi Fi Security It is a multifaceted approach to protecting your wireless network from unauthorized access and data breaches which are discussed further.
It is crucial to safeguard your personal data and prevent unauthorized access to your network.
Wi Fi Security Measures The following measures are taken to enhance the Wi Fi security: Use of encryption Use WPA2 authentication Use antivirus, antispyware and firewall Turn off SSID broadcast Use WPA3 authentication Wi Fi Encryption Protocol It is a set of rules and procedures used to scramble data transmitted over a wireless network, making it unreadable to unauthorized individuals.
It is essential for safeguarding your wireless network from unauthorized access and data breaches.
Secure Encryption Protocol Wired Equivalency Privacy(WEP) WIFI Protected Access(WPA) Wired Equivalent Privacy is defined by the IEEE 802.11 standard.
WEP was designed with one main goal in mind: to prevent hackers from snooping on wireless data as it was transmitted between clients and access points (APs).
WEP uses a predefined shared secret key of 40 bits.
A shared key is static and shared among all wireless access points and device interfaces.
It uses the RC4 algorithm.
WPA is an improvement over WEP in that it does not use the same static key to encrypt all communications.
Instead, it negotiates a unique key set with each host.
However, a single passphrase is used to authorize the association with the base station (i.e., allow a new client to set up a connection).
If the passphrase is not long enough, it could be guessed.
Usually, 14 characters or more for the passphrase are recommended.
Secure Encryption Protocol Wi Fi Protected access 2(WPA2) Wi Fi Protected access 3(WPA 3) It is a new method of securing wireless that was developed and is still considered secure.
This is the amendment known as 802.11i, or WPA2.
WPA2 uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is considered much more secure than the encryption used in WEP and WPA (TKIP).
WPA2 also introduced more seamless roaming, enabling clients to move from one AP to another on the same Wi Fi network without having to reauthenticate.
It also standardizes the 128 bit cryptographic suite and disallows obsolete security protocols.
WPA3 Personal also uses AES encryption, like WPA3.
It uses Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE), which is a more secure key exchange method compared to WPA2's PSK mode, making it more resistant to passwordcracking attempts.
SAE also eliminates the reuse of encryption keys, requiring a new code with every interaction.
Mobile Management and Security Introduction to Mobile Management Involves the administration and control of mobile devices within an organization Includes activities such as device provisioning, configuration, security, and compliance Encompasses deployment models and security solutions, such as Mobile Device Management, mobile application management, and content management, which will be discussed in detail in the following slides Mobile Device Security Cell phones, tablets, computers, and more have become a dominant part of our everyday lives.
These devices store information such as contact lists, passwords, emails, texts, and other data.
These attacks on your mobile device aim to steal private information, including bank details, login credentials, and other sensitive data.
Mobile device security protects your data from security threats, prevents data breaches, blocks unauthorized access to sensitive information, and mitigates data loss due to user error, theft, or misplacement.
Connection Method Cellular connections use mobile telephony circuits, typically fourth generation Cellular (4G) or LTE, though some 3G services still exist.
Cellular networks offer robust nationwide coverage, providing strong signals virtually anywhere with reasonable population density.
Wi Fi refers to the radio communication methods developed under the Wi Fi WIFI Alliance.
These systems exist on 2.4 and 5 GHz frequency spectrums and are constructed by both the enterprise you are associated with and third parties.
SATCOM (satellite communications) is the use of terrestrial transmitters, Satellite communication receivers, and satellites in orbit to transfer signals.
Satellites are expensive, and for high density urban areas, both cost and line of sight issues make SATCOM a more expensive option.
Mobile Device Deployment Models A mobile device deployment model explains the process by which employees are supplied with mobile devices and applications.
It can be: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) 01 02 Corporate Owned, Business Only (COBO) Corporate Owned, Personally Enabled (COPE) 03 04 Choose Your Own Device (CYOD) 05 Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Mobile Device Deployment Models Bring your own device Allows employees to use personal devices to access organizational networks, work systems, and sensitive data Corporate owned business only Provides employees with companyowned devices restricted to company use Corporate owned, personallyenabled Choose your own device Virtual desktop infrastructure Gives employees companyowned devices for both business and personal use Lets employees select from a list of companyapproved devices Controls the mobile environment of non corporateowned equipment Enterprise Mobility Management Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) is a class of management software that applies security policies for the use of mobile devices and applications in the enterprise.
Provides visibility over use and configuration Manages enterprise owned devices and BYOD Enterprise Mobility Management The main functions of an EMM product site are as follows: Mobile Device Management (MDM) Involves network enrollment Manages device functions Mobile Application Management (MAM) Involves installing and monitoring corporate apps and data Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) Aims for visibility across PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and even IoT devices Mobile Device Management Manages mobile devices in organizations to access sensitive business data Includes storing essential information about mobile devices, deciding which apps can be installed, locating devices, and securing devices if lost or stolen MDM Policy Controls Lock the device with a strong password Lock the device automatically after a certain period of inactivity Remotely lock the device if it is lost or stolen Encrypt data on the device Wipe the device automatically after a certain number of failed login attempts Ma n a g e a p p s Mobile Access Control Systems The security and privacy of a smartphone is ensured by the following authentications: Password Swipe pattern PIN Biometric Mobile Access Control Systems A screen lock mechanism, such as a password, PIN, or pattern, can be used to protect a users smartphone from any intervention.
Context aware authentication helps a user unlock the smartphone in case of password loss.
Remote Wipe Remote wipe or kill switch is initiated from the enterprise management software.
It sets the device to factory defaults or clears storage if the smartphone is stolen.
The remote wipe is triggered when the thief enters the wrong password multiple times.
The thief might be able to prevent the device from receiving the wipe command.
The screenshot here shows the corporate messaging service by Intermedia.
Geofencing Geofencing applies location based policies automatically and helps disable the onboard camera or video through MDM or EMM controls.
Using Find My Device to locate an Android smartphone GPS Tagging Global Positioning System (GPS) tagging refers to the process of including geographical identification metadata in a device.
Is highly sensitive and poses a risk to personal information Helps track movements and assists social engineering Application Management MDM or EMM applications use policies to provide better management of devices.
Android allows thirdparty app stores to install untrusted applications onto a device with the user's consent, a process known as sideloading.
Content Management Devices are usually privately owned for corporate use and using them for any other tasks creates data ownership and privacy issues.
Containerization sets up a corporate workspace segmented from the employees private apps and data.
It enforces storage segmentation to ensure data separation.
It helps enforce content management or DLP policies.
Rooting and Jailbreaking Rooting or jailbreaking mobile devices involves subverting the security measures on the device, posing a risk for the enterprise management agent.
Rooting Jailbreaking Carrier unlocking Rooting is the process of Jailbreaking is the process gaining administrative Removes the restriction by of removing software privileges (root access) on the network provider, restrictions imposed by an Android device allowing the use of a SIM the manufacturer on a from another provider Usually done on Android devices Also known as custom firmware or ROM (Read only memory device Usually done in iOS by restarting the device with a patched kernel Performs on both iOS and Android Unlocks a device to a single carrier Application Security Application Security Involves developing, adding, and testing security features within applications to prevent security vulnerabilities against application threats Protects software applications from cyberattacks and data breaches Encompasses the entire lifecycle of an application, from the initial design phase to deployment and ongoing maintenance Focuses on identifying, mitigating, and preventing various application vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit Reasons for Software Vulnerabilities Coding errors Third party components Misconfigurations External threats Application Security Controls Input validations Is a critical security measure in software development.
It ensures that only expected and authorized data enters your system, protecting against vulnerabilities and improving data integrity Secure cookies Prevents attackers from injecting malicious code or unexpected data that could disrupt program flow or compromise the system (e.g., SQL Injection, Cross Site Scripting (XSS)) Static code analysis Code signing Secure coding practices Ensures that data conforms to the expected format (e.g., email address format, date within a specific range) Application Security Controls Input validations Cookies, also known as HTTP cookies, web cookies, or internet cookies, are small pieces of data created by websites and stored on your device (computer, phone, tablet) by your web browser.
Secure cookies They act like a little note from the website that helps it remember information about you and your visit.
Static code analysis Code signing Secure coding practices Secure cookies are an upgraded version of regular cookies that encrypt the cookie data using HTTPS, ensuring it's unreadable if intercepted during transmission.
These secure cookies are sent only over HTTPS connections due to the Secure attribute that instructs the browser on this limitation.
Application Security Controls Input validations Secure cookies Static code analysis Code signing Secure coding practices Is a security testing technique that examines computer code without running it Involves meticulously reviewing a recipe to identify potential problems before you start cooking Uses tools to parse and analyze the source code of your program, typically written in languages like C++, Java, or Python Helps identify issues early in the development process, making them easier and cheaper to fix compared to finding them later in production Application Security Controls Input validations Secure cookies Static code analysis Code signing Secure coding practices Verify the authenticity and integrity of software code with code signing, a security practice Function as a cryptographic seal, providing assurance regarding the authenticity and reliability of software through code signing Ensure the software has not been tampered with and comes from a trusted source with code signing Display security warnings in operating systems to alert users when they attempt to install unsigned code, encouraging caution Application Security Controls Input validations Secure cookies Static code analysis Code signing Secure coding practices Follow secure coding practices to enhance security and minimize vulnerabilities Ensure software is secure, resilient, and less prone to security breaches with these practices Prevent the introduction of security weaknesses in the code, making it harder for attackers to exploit the software Sandboxing Sandboxing It is a technique used to safely evaluate the threat in an isolated test environment (sandbox).
It tests suspicious programs in isolated environments to prevent harm to the host device.
It provides effective protection against zero day attacks and advanced threats.
Suspicious email attachments are sent to a virtual sandbox for deep analysis of malicious activity.
Sandboxing Flow Isolation: A sandbox creates a segregated environment that mimics a real operating system, allowing suspicious programs to execute without affecting the real system or network.
1 Protection: If the code is found to be malicious, it can be prevented from entering the real system, thus stopping a cyberattack in its tracks.
Analysis: Security experts can then analyze the activity of the code inside the sandbox.
2 Detonation: The suspicious code is then detonated within the sandbox, essentially run and its behavior monitored closely.
3 4 Threat detection: By observing the behavior of the code, analysts can identify malicious activities such as attempts to steal data, install malware, or damage the system.
5 Benefits of Sandboxing Proactive defense: Safe analysis: Improved detection rates: Sandboxing allows for the analysis of unknown or zero day threats that traditional signature based security might miss.
Security professionals can examine potentially risky code without putting the actual system or network at risk.
Sandboxing can uncover sophisticated malware that might bypass traditional security measures.
Monitoring Monitoring It is the process of continuously tracking, analyzing, and managing the performance, health, and availability of the IT infrastructure to keep the systems running smoothly.
Commercial applications such as SolarWinds Security Event Manager and Splunk, offer robust monitoring and alerting solutions for businesses to help them detect and respond to potential security threats.
Assets to monitor in Infrastructure Hardware performance: CPU utilization, memory usage, disk space, and network bandwidth System health: Uptime, errors, and application response times Resource utilization: Monitoring resource usage helps identify potential bottlenecks and plan for future needs.
Security events: Suspicious login attempts, unauthorized access, and malware activity Why is Infrastructure Monitoring Important?
Identifies problems proactively Improves security posture Optimizes resources better Enhances capacity planning Improves system uptime and performance Security Implications of Proper Hardware, Software, and Data Asset Management Effective Asset Management in Cybersecurity Proper management of hardware, software, and data assets is crucial for maintaining cybersecurity.
This section covers: Acquisition and third party risk assessment: Evaluating risks associated with acquiring new assets and integrating third party services Asset assignment and accountability: Ensuring assets are properly assigned and accountability is maintained Asset disposal and decommissioning: Guidelines for securely disposing of and decommissioning assets to prevent data breaches Phases of Asset Management Proper asset management involves several key phases, each with important security implications: Acquisition/ Assignment/ procurement ownership Monitoring/asset tracking Disposal/ decommissioning Acquisition/Procurement The acquisition or procurement process is the initial phase of asset management, setting the stage for securely handling hardware, software, and data assets: Strategic evaluation Beyond purchasing Comprehensive strategy Begins with a strategic evaluation of an organizations technological needs Involves more than merely purchasing the required resources Ensures that procured items meet the organizations security policies, standards, and compliance requirements Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Compliance alignment Vendor selection Risk assessment Total cost of ownership Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Vendor selection Total cost of ownership Risk assessment Compliance requirement When you procure new assets or replace existing ones, submit a case to the Change Advisory Board for purchase and implementation approval.
Introducing new IT assets can disrupt established workflows and user habits.
Change management helps prepare users for changes and minimizes resistance to adoption.
Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Vendor selection Vendor selection is a critical step in successfully acquiring IT assets.
Choosing the right vendor can ensure you get high quality equipment, software, or services that meet your needs and budget.
Its crucial for quality, cost efficiency, reliability, and compliance.
Total cost of ownership Risk assessment Compliance requirement Finding the best deal and ensuring the vendor aligns with your organizations security and compliance requirements is essential.
Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Vendor selection TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) assesses the complete cost of acquiring, owning, and operating an asset over its lifecycle.
It goes beyond the initial purchase price to include ongoing expenses.
Total cost of ownership Risk assessment Compliance requirement Hidden costs can significantly impact your budget over time.
Consider maintenance costs and replacement parts, not just the purchase price.
Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Vendor selection Total cost of ownership Risk assessment Compliance requirement Risk assessment is crucial to identify, analyze, and prioritize potential risks.
It helps develop strategies to mitigate risks and ensure project success.
Address security considerations at every stage of the acquisition process.
Comprehensive risk assessment helps identify vulnerabilities and threats.
Factors to Consider During Acquisition/Procurement Process Change management Vendor selection Total cost of ownership Risk assessment Compliance requirement Consider compliance requirements to adhere to relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
Non compliance can result in fines, legal consequences, and reputational damage.
Adherence to legal and regulatory requirements is non negotiable; security and compliance go hand in hand.
Ensure acquired assets comply with data protection, privacy, and industry specific regulations.
Assignment/Ownership Proper assignment and ownership of assets are crucial for effective asset management.
Each asset procured or developed should be accounted for and allocated to a data owner.
Ownership designates the individual or department responsible for an asset from acquisition to decommissioning.
Establishing ownership ensures responsibility and accountability, impacting the organizations overall security posture.
Activities Flowing Out of Ownership/Assignment Process Proper ownership and assignment of assets lead to several critical activities: Asset register: A comprehensive record of an organizations assets, including details such as location, value, and ownership Ownership: Ensures accountability by assigning specific owners to assets, making it easier to enforce accountability for their condition and usage Standard naming convention Required to distinguish between different assets Asset classification: Involves categorizing assets into critical, essential, and nonessential, ensuring appropriate support based on asset value and sensitivity Monitoring/Asset Tracking Monitoring and asset tracking are central pillars of effective asset management, vital for maintaining an organizations cybersecurity hygiene: Provides continuous visibility into the status, location, and condition of all assets within an organization Ensures informed decisions related to security, budgeting, and overall operations Activities flowing out of Monitoring/Asset Tracking Inventory Maintains a detailed record of all organizational assets, including make, model, software version, and patch level Allows for accurate tracking, efficient asset utilization, and cost optimization Tools: IBM Maximo, ServiceNow Asset Management Enumerations Takes inventory management a step further Each asset should have a distinct identifier for easier tracking and differentiation Actively identifies assets within an environment and maps their relationships and dependencies Tools for Inventory/Enumerations Mobile Device Management (MDM) Monitors and tracks mobile devices; can remotely wipe lost or stolen devices GPS and location based Service Services like Apple AirTag can track and monitor asset whereabouts Asset tags Crucial for inventory management, particularly for physical IT assets RFID tags Quickly scan and identify assets in proximity for efficient tracking Microsoft intune Tracks devices enrolled in its MDM platform, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops Network mapper Automatically scans a network to detect all connected devices, including desktops, laptops, servers, printers, NAS devices, and other equipment Disposal/Decommissioning The disposal/decommissioning phase is the final stage in the life cycle of an asset: Involves the systematic removal, decommissioning, and disposal of assets that are no longer in use or have reached the end of their operational life Mitigates the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches Maintains regulatory compliance Ensures no residual data is left on any data drives, especially if the device was used to access classified data Data Disposal Methods There are five major ways to destroy data.
Each is explained in the following slides: Erasing Erasing is a simple deletion process.
The process removes only the catalog reference, not the files.
Clearing (overwriting) Purging Sanitization Degaussing Not the best practice to destroy data, because anyone can retrieve the data using widely available tools.
Data Disposal Methods There are five major ways to destroy data.
This slide explains the clearing (overwriting) method: Erasing Clearing (overwriting) Purging Process of preparing the media for reuse with assurance that cleared data cannot be retrieved using traditional means of recovery.
Unclassified data is written over all the addressable locations on the media.
Data recovery requires special laboratory techniques.
This method is used when you want to prepare media for reuse at the same classification level.
The following image illustrates the clearing process: Sanitization Degaussing 1 First character 1010 0001 2 Complement 0101 1110 3 Random bits 1101 0100 Data Disposal Methods This slide explains the purging method: Erasing More intense form of clearing; repeats the clearing process multiple times Clearing (overwriting) Provides assurance that data cannot be recovered using any known means Purging Sanitization Degaussing Can be combined with degaussing to completely remove data Used when one wants to prepare media for reuse at a lower classification level Data Disposal Methods This slide explains the sanitization method: Erasing Clearing (overwriting) Purging Sanitization is a combination of processes that ensures data is removed from the system It ensures data cannot be recovered by any means Sanitization Degaussing The process includes ensuring non volatile memory is erased, and external drives are removed and sanitized to destroy data Data Disposal Methods This slide explains the degaussing method: Erasing Clearing (overwriting) Purging Sanitization Degaussing Generates heavy magnetic fields that realign the magnetic fields in magnetic media; only effective on magnetic media (does not affect CD/DVD/SSD) o AC erasure: Medium is degaussed by applying an alternating field that is reduced in amplitude over time o DC erasure: Medium is saturated by applying a unidirectional field Data Destruction Methods Data destruction is a critical process for ensuring the complete elimination of sensitive information: Destruction is the final stage in the life cycle of media and is the most secure method of sanitizing media.
When destroying media, it is important to ensure that the media cannot be reused or repaired, and that data cannot be extracted from the destroyed media.
Destruction Methods Various methods can be used to securely destroy data and prevent recovery: Shredding Refers to the mechanical shredding of hard drives, disks, or other storage media into small, unreadable pieces.
Incineration Means burning the asset to ashes, ensuring it cannot be reassembled or used again.
Pulverization Involves reducing the asset to small pieces by using a sledgehammer, or other means.
Crushing Applying great force to render the asset unusable.
Chemical decomposition Involves using chemicals to break down the asset's components.
Pulping Means turning the paper waste into pulp and is like making papier mch.
Vulnerability Assessment Vulnerability Assessment It is the process in which vulnerabilities in IT are identified and the risks of these vulnerabilities are evaluated.
Vulnerability assessment objectives The main objective of a vulnerability assessment process is to detect and remediate vulnerabilities in a timely fashion.
Vulnerability Assessment The steps in the process are: Identify the assets or resources Identify vulnerabilities or potential threats to each resource Define and implement ways to minimize the consequences if an attack occurs 1 3 5 2 Assign a quantifiable level of importance to the identified resources 4 Develop a strategy to mitigate or eliminate the most serious vulnerabilities in the most valuable resources Types of Vulnerability Assessments The three types of vulnerability assessments are: Personnel testing Identify vulnerabilities in standard employee practices and demonstrate social engineering attacks Physical testing Review facility and perimeter protection mechanisms Perform physical security vulnerability assessments System and network testing Assess the system using the following methods: o Network discovery scan o Network vulnerability assessment o Web application vulnerability scan Network Discovery Scan It is a foundational step in the vulnerability assessment process, providing critical visibility into the network landscape Network discovery scan Network discovery scan They search for systems with open ports.
They do not probe systems for vulnerabilities.
ToolsCommonly commonlyused usedtools NMAP Angry IP Scanner Network Discovery Scan There are four network discovery scanning techniques: TCP SYN scanning Sends a single packet to each scanned port with the SYN packet set If a response with SYN and ACK flags is received, it indicates the port is open at the senders end This is also called half open scanning.
TCP connect scanning Opens a full connection to a remote system on the specified port It is used when the user running the scan does not have the necessary permissions to run a half open scan TCP ACK scanning Xmas scanning Sends a packet with the ACK flag set, indicating that it is part of an open connection Sends a packet with the FIN, PSH, and URG flags set Network Vulnerability Scan It is a vital component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, helping organizations identify, assess, and remediate vulnerabilities to protect their networks and data from potential threats.
Two common problems False positive: Reporting a vulnerability without having substantial evidence to prove it or reporting by mistake, leading to a nuisance.
False negative: Not identifying a vulnerability and failing to report it as a part of the results, leading to a dangerous situation.
Tools used: Tenable Nessus, OpenVAS, Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA), and Retina Network Scanner Community Edition.
Network Vulnerability Scan Types of scans: Unauthenticated or non credentialed scan: It is the process of exploring a network or a networked system for vulnerabilities that are accessible without logging in as an authorized user.
It inspects the security of a target system from an outsiders perspective.
Authenticated or credentialed scan: It is a method in which vulnerability testing is performed as a logged in or authenticated user.
Authenticated scans help reduce the false positive and false negative results.
Authenticated scans are performed with read only access to the scanned servers.
Benefits of Network Vulnerability Scan Identify weak points: Vulnerability scans provide a comprehensive view of potential vulnerabilities within your systems.
Prioritize remediation: By categorizing vulnerabilities based on severity (using CVSS), vulnerability scans help organizations prioritize which issues to address first.
Monitor continuously: Regular scans provide an ongoing assessment of your security posture, allowing you to proactively address emerging threats and vulnerabilities in real time.
Vulnerability Scanners They continuously identify, analyze, and report on potential security weaknesses in your IT infrastructure.
They work by comparing information about the software running on a system (such as version numbers and configurations) against databases of known vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability Scan Process 1.
The process begins with the vulnerability scanner directing probes towards the target system.
These probes act as requests aimed at various components of the system.
Upon receiving these probes, the target system undergoes analysis and responds, providing information about its configuration, software versions, and potential vulnerabilities.
The vulnerability scanner, equipped with tools such as Open SSL 3.0, Nginx 1.19.2, and Open SSH 8.3, records and captures these responses.
Subsequently, it correlates the acquired data with entries stored in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database.
Vulnerability Scan Process Target System Sends Probe Vulnerability Scanner Analyzes Response Records Response Vulnerabilities Database Open SSL 3.0 NGINX 1.19.2 OpenSSH 8.3 Correlates to Known Security Vulnerabilities Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) It is a framework that enables compatible vulnerability scanners to see whether a computer adheres to a predefined configuration baseline.
It is a set of specifications and tools that standardize how information about software flaws, security configurations, and vulnerabilities is communicated and exchanged.
SCAP Attributes Standardized Formats: SCAP defines common formats 01 for expressing information about vulnerabilities, security configurations, and patching information.
This ensures different security tools can understand and utilize this data seamlessly.
Automation: SCAP facilitates the automation of 02 vulnerability management tasks, allowing organizations to automate processes like vulnerability scanning, configuration assessment, and patch deployment Open Source and Vendor Neutral: SCAP is an open03 source and vendor neutral approach, meaning it's not tied to any specific security product or vendor.
This allows for interoperability between different security tools from various vendors Components of SCAP Open vulnerability and assessment language: It is a way to express information about vulnerabilities and system configurations in a structured and machine readable format facilitating interoperability between different security tools.
Extensible configuration checklist description format: It is a way to write down security checklists for computers and devices.
Having a standard format like XCCDF allows different security tools to understand these checklists.
Common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS): An industry standard scoring system for assessing the severity of vulnerabilities.
CVSS scores help prioritize which vulnerabilities to address first based on their potential impact SCAP Benefits Improved efficiency Automates vulnerability management tasks, saving time and resources.
Enhanced security Standardized formats ensure consistent and accurate communication of security information, leading to better decision making Simplified compliance SCAP helps organizations comply with security regulations and standards that require vulnerability management practices Vendor agnosticism Allows organizations to leverage different security tools from various vendors without compatibility issues Web Application Vulnerability Scan It is an automated security tool specifically designed to identify security vulnerabilities in web applications.
Web vulnerability scan Uses special purpose scanners that analyze Web applications for known vulnerabilities Web Application Vulnerability Scan Ideal scenarios: Conduct an initial scan of all applications Examine any new application before moving to production Inspect any modified application before it moves to production Perform regular and scheduled reviews of all applications Web Application Vulnerability Scanning Process Generate Reports Crawl and discover After the scan is complete, the scanner generates a report that details the identified vulnerabilities This process meticulously explore your website, mimicking how a user or search engine bot would navigate and interact with the application.
Identify Security Misconfigurations Test for vulnerabilities Scanners can also identify insecure configurations such as outdated software or weak encryption settings.
This step involves conducting comprehensive assessments to identify and evaluate potential weaknesses in the network, applications, and systems.
Benefits of Web Application Scanners Proactive Security Regular scans help identify vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them, protecting your website and user data Improved Security Posture By addressing identified vulnerabilities, you can significantly strengthen the overall security of your web application Compliance with Regulations Reduced Development Costs Many regulations and security standards require organizations to regularly scan their web applications for vulnerabilities Early detection of vulnerabilities during development is easier and cheaper to fix compared to patching them after a security breach.
Types of Web Application Static application security test (SAST) Dynamic application security test (DAST) White box security test Black box security test Requires source code Requires a running application Finds vulnerabilities in the earlier stages of an SDLC Finds vulnerabilities towards the later stages of an SDLC Less expensive to fix vulnerabilities More expensive to fix vulnerabilities Cant discover runtime and environment related issues Can discover runtime and environment related issues Supports all software Predominantly deals with Web apps Tools required: Acunetix, QualysGuard, and Burp Suite Penetration Testing It is also called pen testing or ethical hacking, is the practice of testing a computer system, network, or Web application to find security vulnerabilities that an attacker could exploit.
It is the process of determining the true nature and impact of a given vulnerability by exploiting existing vulnerabilities.
Tools required: Metasploit, Kali Linux, and Aircrack ng Penetration Testing Process Phases of penetration testing: Enumeration Exploitation Performing port scans and resource identification methods Attempting to gain unauthorized access by exploiting vulnerabilities Discovery Vulnerability mapping Reporting Foot printing and gathering information about the target Identifying vulnerabilities in the systems and resources Reporting the findings to the management Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests The tester has no prior knowledge of the internal design or features of the system.
It is the most accurate method to simulate an external attacker.
It will probably not detect all vulnerabilities.
The testing team may inadvertently impact another system.
Double blind types Targeted Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests The tester has complete knowledge of the internal system.
It allows the test team to target specific internal controls and features.
It may yield a more complete result.
It may not be representative of an external hacker.
Double blind types Targeted Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests Double blind types Targeted Some information about internal working is given to the tester.
It helps guide their tactics toward areas that need to be thoroughly tested.
This approach mitigates the risks of the other two models.
Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests Double blind types Targeted The tester only has publicly available data to work with.
The network security team has prior knowledge of this test to defend against an attack.
Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests Double blind types Targeted It is also known as stealth assessment.
It is a blind test to both the tester as well as the security team.
It is used to evaluate the security levels and responses of the security team.
It is a realistic demonstration of the likely success or failure of an attack.
Penetration Testing Types Black box testing (zero knowledge) White box testing (full knowledge) Gray box testing (partial knowledge) Blind tests Double blind types Targeted It involves external and internal parties carrying out a focused test on specific areas of interest.
Vulnerability Disclosure and Incentive Programs Programs designed to identify, report, and remediate security vulnerabilities, often providing incentives or recognition to those who responsibly disclose them.
Below are two important programs under this category: Responsible Disclosure Program Bug Bounty Program Responsible Disclosure Program It is a framework that encourages the ethical reporting of security vulnerabilities.
It outlines the procedures for external security researchers to report vulnerabilities they have discovered in a companys software or systems.
Bug Bounty Program It is a specialized type of responsible disclosure program that offers financial incentives to security researchers for discovering and reporting software vulnerabilities.
Organizations host these programs to crowd source the identification of security flaws in their software, systems, or online services.
System and Process Audit What Is Audit?
It is a systematic, repeatable process, where a competent, independent professional evaluates one or more controls, interviews personnel, obtains and analyzes evidence, and develops a written opinion on the effectiveness of the control(s).
The purpose of a risk audit is to provide reasonable assurance that adequate risk controls exist and are operationally effective.
System and Process Audit A System and process audits are systematic evaluations conducted to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, security, and compliance of an organizations operational systems, workflows, and protocols with applicable regulations.
These audits delve deep into the intricate workings of an organization to identify areas for improvement, verify compliance, and mitigate risks.
System and Process Audit Objective setting Data collection Evaluation Clearly defined goals and objectives guide the audit process.
Auditors gather data and evidence through interviews, document reviews, observations, and data analysis.
The collected data is assessed against predetermined criteria, standards, and best practices.
Follow up Auditors perform follow up to verify actions taken on recommendation Recommendations Reporting Based on findings, auditors may suggest improvements or corrective actions.
Audit findings are documented and communicated to relevant stakeholders Why System and Process Audit matters?
Ensure Compliances Identify inefficiencies Audits uncover bottlenecks, redundancies, and inefficiencies within processes, allowing organizations to streamline operations.
Organizations must adhere to various regulations and industry standards.
Audits help verify compliance and avoid legal consequences.
Enhance quality By evaluating processes and systems, audits lead to improved product and service quality.
Vulnerability Analysis It is a central component in cybersecurity that balances data collection and actionable decision making.
Analysis transforms raw data about vulnerabilities and threats into comprehensive insights.
Confirmation of Vulnerabilities It involves a rigorous process to validate suspected vulnerabilities.
Analysts confront false positives and false negatives, reflecting the accuracy of prior vulnerability assessments.
False positive: A false positive can act as a smokescreen, hiding a real issue by overwhelming a security team with false alarms.
False negative: A false negative could be even more damaging, serving as a ticking time bomb for unauthorized access to critical systems.
Vulnerability Classification It refers to the organized categorization of identified vulnerabilities within a system or application, usually based on criteria such as the nature of a vulnerability, the level of risk it poses, the component affected, or the potential impact Vulnerability Classification Factors Exposure Factor: It quantifies the potential loss percentage from a successful attack.
Environmental Variable: Environmental variables like infrastructure, industry, and regulations influence the urgency of addressing vulnerabilities. Industry Impact: Different sectors face unique cybersecurity challenges; financial institutions protect customer data, and healthcare protects health data.
Risk Tolerance: It is the level of risk an organization can bear.
It combines vulnerability assessment with the organization's capacity to handle risk.
Prioritization It is the process of categorizing vulnerabilities based on their potential impact and the severity of the risk they pose.
It is a complex juggling act that requires a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles and the organizations operational intricacies.
Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) It is a multifaceted tool that provides a robust mechanism for assessing vulnerabilities in a standardized way.
Score Rating 9.0 10.0 Critical It quantifies the nature and severity of software vulnerabilities, aiding security professionals and organizations in making informed decisions about risk mitigation.
7.0 8.9 High 4.0 6.9 Medium It is a standardized system for assessing the severity of vulnerabilities, according to factors such as the impact, exploitability, and ease of remediation.
0.1 3.9 Low CVSS Scoring Temporal Metric: This layer examines the attributes of a vulnerability that may change over time, including exploit code maturity, remediation level, and report confidence.
Base Metrics: These are inherent qualities of the vulnerability, like how it can be exploited and the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
These metrics are independent of any specific system or environment.
2 1 3 Environmental group: This layer allows an organization to tailor CVSS scores based on specific environmental characteristics, providing a customized risk assessment.
Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) The CVE program identifies and catalogues publicly disclosed cybersecurity vulnerabilities, aiming to standardize their identification and improve communication and collaboration among cybersecurity professionals, software vendors, and other stakeholders.
CVE Details Severity Score: An indication of the vulnerability's severity using a scoring system like CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System).
01 Public References: Description: A detailed explanation of the vulnerability, its potential impact, and affected systems 04 02 03 CVE ID: A unique identifier in the format CVE YYYYNNNN (e.g., CVE 2023 4567).
Links to additional resources like exploit code, vendor advisories, or mitigation strategies.
Vulnerabilities Response and Remediation Patching It involves regularly updating software, applications, and systems to address known vulnerabilities.
Timely patching is crucial, as it bolsters an organizations defense by closing security gaps that malicious actors may exploit.
Insurance It serves as a financial safety net, providing coverage for potential losses resulting from cyber incidents.
Segmentation It is a strategic approach to minimize the impact of a cyber breach.
It involves dividing a network into isolated segments, limiting lateral movement for attackers, and containing potential breaches.
Validation of Remediation Verification: In the context of validation of remediation, involves ongoing monitoring and assurance that vulnerabilities remain mitigated over time.
Rescan: It involves running vulnerability scans again after applying patches or making other changes.
Its a way of proving that remediation efforts have worked.
2 1 3 Audit: It offers a thorough manual review by an independent third party or internal team, unlike automated rescans.
Reporting It is a formal document that details security weaknesses in software applications, systems, or components.
These reports are generated by vulnerability scanning systems and serve as actionable insights and organizational memory for cybersecurity efforts.
Components of Reporting Vulnerability overview CVSS score Remediation progress This is a summary of the current vulnerability landscape, including theCtotal number of vulnerabilities, their severity distribution, and trends over time.
These relate detailed information on the varying C levels of severity for identified vulnerabilities, and those of the highest priority that require immediate attention should be highlighted.
This is an update on the status of remediation efforts, including the number of vulnerabilities addressed and those still pending.
Risk metric Recommendation The report should include metrics by which to measure vulnerabilityCmanagement activities that have contributed to reducing the organizations overall cybersecurity risk.
Clear recommendations on the prioritization and allocation of resources for vulnerability C remediation efforts should also be provided.
What Is Package It refers to a software component or module that is used within an application.
These packages can include libraries, frameworks, plugins, or other pieces of code that are integrated into an application to provide specific functionality.
Package Monitoring It involves continually surveilling third party software packages and libraries that an application incorporates.
It refers to monitoring the status and management of software packages within the application itself.
Complexity arises because some organizations use many of these packages without understanding the security ramifications.
Imagine it as keeping tabs on the health and performance of the building blocks that make your application work.
Attributes to Be Monitored 01 Installation and updates: Tracks the installation status of different packages within the application Package dependencies: Applications often rely 02 on other software packages to function properly.
Package monitoring ensures all the necessary dependencies are met and any conflicts between packages are identified Package health: Monitors the health and 03 functionality of the software packages.
This might involve checking for errors, compatibility issues, or resource usage.
Package Monitoring Implementation Tools Package managers Application monitoring tools Custom monitoring scripts Many languages and frameworks have package managers for installation, updates, and dependency management, with monitoring features.
Examples include npm (Node.js) and pip (Python).
Application package monitoring tools focus on monitoring the software packages used within an application.
For example: NPM ( Node Packet Manager), SNYK.
Developers can write custom scripts to track specific package related metrics and generate alerts for potential issues.
Software Component Analysis (SCA) It is used in application security to analyze software components.
It helps developers identify and address risks in third party components to build secure, compliant, and robust applications Functionalities of SCA Component identification: SCA tools meticulously examine your application's codebase to identify all the software components used.
These components can include libraries, frameworks, and other pre written modules.
Risk analysis: Once the components are identified, SCA tools analyze them for potential risks.
Security vulnerabilities: They check if the identified components have known security weaknesses that attackers could exploit.
License compliance: SCA tools verify that the licenses of the used components are compatible with your project's licensing terms.
Outdated components: They identify components with outdated versions that might lack security patches or bug fixes.
SCA Benefits Improved security posture Enhanced license compliance By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in third party components, SCA helps you build more secure applications.
SCA ensures you're using components according to their license terms, avoiding potential legal issues Reduced development costs Proactive identification of vulnerabilities or licensing conflicts can prevent costly remediation efforts later in the development process.
Streamline development process SCA tools can automate many aspects of component analysis, saving developers time and effort Threat Feeds They are continuous data streams that provide information about the latest cyber threats and suspicious activities, serving as a valuable resource for security teams to detect and prevent cyberattacks.
They are crucial for security teams, providing real time information to proactively defend against cyberattacks.
Types of Threat Feeds Security vendors: Leading cybersecurity companies often maintain their own threat feeds, offering insights into the latest threats and vulnerabilities.
Commercial threat intelligence providers: Many companies specialize in collecting, analyzing, and distributing threat intelligence data to subscribers.
Government agencies: National cybersecurity organizations provide threat feeds with information on threats that may have national or global significance.
Open Source Intelligence (OSINT): OSINT feeds gather data from publicly available sources, including forums, social media, and dark web monitoring.
OSINT OSINT stands for Open Source Intelligence.
It is the practice of gathering and analyzing information from publicly available sources to gain valuable insights.
It is a powerful technique for gathering valuable information from publicly available sources.
By effectively using OSINT, individuals and organizations can gain insights, make informed decisions, and achieve their goals Think of it like detective work using only publicly available clues OSINT Sources Websites and forums News and media Public websites, forums, and social media can reveal potential vulnerabilities, hacker discussions, and emerging threats.
News outlets report on data breaches, cyberattacks, and vulnerabilities, offering insights into the latest developments.
Government reports Blogs and research paper Government agencies, like US CERT, release reports on vulnerabilities and threats.
Security researchers share their findings in blogs and research papers, offering insights into vulnerabilities and exploitations.
Proprietary or Third Party Feeds It is a specialized channel that may require a subscription.
Unlike OSINT, these feeds are curated and may include analysis of a threats impact.
For instance, a bank could subscribe to a service like Recorded Future or FireEye to get tailored data on threats aimed explicitly at financial institutions.
It involves numerous vendors, including industry stalwarts such as FireEye, Symantec, and Recorded Future.
These vendors offer a vast array of threat data feeds and reports that organizations can use to fortify their defenses.
Third Party Source of Intelligence Structured Threat Information Expression(STIX) SHODAN STIX is a standardized language and format for representing structured threat information.
It is a search engine for the Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices.
SHODAN scans the web, indexing information about internet connected devices and services, including open ports, vulnerabilities, and configurations.
It provides a common ground for expressing and sharing threat intelligence consistently.
Organizations and vendors can use STIX to package and exchange data on threats, vulnerabilities, and incidents.
SHODANs data can be invaluable for organizations seeking to understand their external attack surface.
Information Sharing Organization (ISO) Information sharing organizations and groups such as information sharing, and analysis centers (ISACs) serve as hubs where companies can contribute and receive threat information.
Their primary mission is to facilitate the exchange of threat intelligence, insights, and best practices among members.
ISOs serve as a nexus for collective wisdom to transform this intelligence into actionable defense strategies.
Data Shared by ISA Indicators of Compromise (IOCs): This is the information left by cyber attackers.
IOCs include malicious IP addresses, malware signatures, and suspicious URLs.
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs): ISOs offer a deeper understanding of the methods employed by threat actors, including attack patterns and behavior.
Incident data: This refers to narratives of past and ongoing cyber incidents, offering context and actionable insights to defenders.
Different Cyber Sharing Agencies Cyber Threat Alliance CTA is a coalition of cybersecurity organizations and C companies that work together to share cyber threat intelligence and improve global defenses against cyber threats.
Automated Indicator Sharing(AIS) Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams AIS is a program led by the US government that C enables the sharing of cyber threat indicators and defensive measures with authorized organizations.
FIRST is a global organization that brings together incident response and security teams from various industries and regions.
Information Sharing and Analysis center(ISACs) ISACs are sector specific organizationsCthat focus on sharing cyber threat intelligence within specific industries or critical infrastructure sectors.
Multi State information Sharing and Analysis Center C Secure and reliable access to applications from anywhere, on any device.
Dark Web It is known for its anonymity and association with illicit activities, and It can only be accessed using specialized software, with the Tor network being the most well known.
It is a hidden part of the internet that isn't indexed by traditional search engines.
Dark Web Anonymity: The dark web prioritizes anonymity, accessed through software like Tor that anonymizes internet traffic.
Hidden addresses: Websites on the dark web use ".onion" addresses instead of ".com" or ".net," and are not indexed by search engines.
Special software for access: The dark web requires special software, as traditional browsers like Chrome or Firefox cannot access it.
Content: Security researchers share their findings in blogs and research papers, offering insights into vulnerabilities and exploitations.
Scanning Local VM Using Nessus Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a cybersecurity analyst, you are tasked with conducting vulnerability scans on a local Windows virtual machine using Nessus.
This involves installing and configuring Nessus, scanning the target machine for vulnerabilities, and generating a report that visualizes the identified vulnerabilities and the necessary patches.
The aim is to assess the security posture of the system and prioritize remediation efforts to enhance its security.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 01_Scanning_Local_VM_using_Nessus Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install the Nessus vulnerability scanner 2.
Configure Nessus 3.
Prepare for scanning 4.
Conduct a vulnerability scan 5. Review scan results Security Alerting and Monitoring Concepts and Tools Monitoring and Alerting of Systems and Infrastructure Monitoring IT systems involves the continuous tracking and analysis of various aspects of an organization's IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, network performance, security, and application functionality.
Monitoring computing resources involves the continuous oversight of an organization's IT assets to ensure they operate within expected parameters.
This process includes the tracking of systems, applications, and infrastructure, each presenting its own set of challenges and essential metrics.
Monitoring Computing Resources Security alerting and monitoring safeguard digital assets and sensitive information, involving continuous observation and analysis to identify and respond to security threats in real time.
The goal is to minimize the risks of data breaches, unauthorized access, and system vulnerabilities.
Things to Be Monitored The goal is to minimize the risks of data breaches, unauthorized access, and system vulnerabilities by closely reviewing the following: Security logs System monitoring Application monitoring Infrastructure monitoring Things to Be Monitored Security logs System monitoring Security logs record all authorized and unauthorized access to resources and privileges.
Systems refer to the servers, workstations, and endpoints that make up an organization's network.
These logs serve a dual function: acting as an audit trail of user actions and offering preemptive warning against potential intrusion attempts when regularly monitored.
Monitoring systems involves keeping a vigilant eye on performance metrics such as CPU usage, memory utilization, and network traffic.
The security of a network heavily relies on the comprehensive and timely review of these logs.
By establishing baselines and thresholds, security teams can detect anomalies that might indicate a security breach or system failure.
Things to Be Monitored Application monitoring Applications are software programs that enable users to perform various tasks on their computers and devices.
Monitoring applications involves tracking their performance, availability, and security.
Security teams use specialized tools to monitor application logs, error messages, and user activity.
Anomalies in application behavior, such as unexpected data access or a sudden surge in traffic, can indicate a security incident.
Infrastructure monitoring Infrastructure encompasses the network components, databases, and cloud services that support an organizations digital operations.
Monitoring infrastructure involves ensuring the integrity and availability of these critical resources with tools including network monitoring software, database activity monitoring, and cloud security solutions.
Security teams rely on comprehensive monitoring to detect and respond to potential infrastructure vulnerabilities and issues.
What Is Logging?
Logging is the process of recording information about system events, errors, warnings, and other relevant data for later analysis.
Logging is essential for identifying and resolving issues by analyzing past logs, aiding in performance monitoring, and ensuring adherence to regulations by maintaining audit trails.
Core Logging Activities Aggregate logs Log alerts Generate reports Archive data Log Aggregation Log aggregation involves gathering disparate log data from various sources, such as servers, applications, databases, and network devices, and bringing the data into a single, centralized repository for examination.
Specialized tools like syslog ng and rsyslog manage and process log data, enabling real time analysis and generating comprehensive reports.
Log Alerts Log alerts are automatic notifications triggered by specific conditions within log data.
They serve as a real time early warning system, notifying IT professionals of potential issues, security threats, or system anomalies.
Rules and thresholds within security systems trigger notifications when specific conditions or events occur.
Timely alerts empower cybersecurity professionals to investigate and mitigate threats, with IDSs, IPSs, and SIEM solutions notifying administrators of suspicious or unauthorized activities.
Reporting Reporting in cybersecurity translates technical information into a format that can be understood by both technical and senior management teams.
For the technical team, it includes detected vulnerabilities and recommended actions.
For senior management, it addresses potential business impact.
Executive reports cover projected financial costs, potential reputational damage, and strategic risk mitigation recommendations.
Archiving Involves the secure storage of historical data, such as logs and reports, for long term retrieval and analysis.
Acts like a well organized filing cabinet, allowing you to quickly find documents when you need to revisit an old case or validate compliance during an audit.
Requires deciding what to archive and the duration, considering legal requirements and potential future analysis.
Uses strong encryption to ensure data integrity, safeguarding information from tampering or accidental deletion.
Alert Response and Remediation or Validation Alert response and remediation are crucial in IT operations, ensuring a timely and effective response to potential issues identified by monitoring systems.
It also serves as an alarm system for the Security Operations Center (SOC) to prompt necessary measures to prevent potential attacks.
The following actions can be taken in response to alerts: Quarantine Alert tuning Quarantine Isolates potentially compromised systems or devices from the network to prevent further infection or compromise of other network assets.
Applies to endpoints, servers, or network segments and is often used in response to alerts indicating potential malware infections or suspicious activity.
Key Activities of Quarantine Manual intervention Manual intervention is required to assess the situation before initiating quarantine.
2 Automated response Security tools are configured to automatically quarantine systems when specific conditions or alerts are triggered.
1 Isolation duration 3 Isolation duration determines how long a system should remain in quarantine based on the severity of the alert and the steps taken for remediation.
Alert Tuning Optimizes security alerts to reduce noise, improve accuracy, and ensure that only actionable alerts are generated.
Involves adjusting the thresholds, rules, and parameters used by security monitoring tools to trigger alerts that provide accurate assessments.
Aims to strike the right balance between alert accuracy and coverage.
Tools for Logging and Monitoring Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) Antivirus Intrusion Detection System or Intrusion Prevention System (IPS or IDS) NetFlow Tools for Logging and Monitoring Vulnerability scanner Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Data loss prevention Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Security Content Automation Protocol Enables compatible vulnerability scanners to determine whether a computer adheres to a predefined configuration baseline.
Standardizes how information about software flaws, security configurations, and vulnerabilities is communicated and exchanged.
Provides a common language for security tools and systems to share information about potential security risks.
SCAP Attributes 01 02 03 Standardized formats: Defines common formats for expressing information about vulnerabilities, security configurations, and patching information, ensuring different security tools can understand and utilize this data seamlessly Automation: Facilitates the automation of vulnerability management tasks, allowing organizations to automate processes like vulnerability scanning, configuration assessment, and patch deployment Open source and vendor neutral: Is open source and vendor neutral, meaning it is not tied to any specific security product or vendor, allowing for interoperability between different security tools from various vendors Components of SCAP Open vulnerability and assessment language Expresses information about vulnerabilities and system configurations in a structured, machine readable format, facilitating interoperability between different security tools Extensible configuration checklist description format Provides a standard format like XCCDF for writing security checklists for computers and devices, allowing different security tools to understand these checklists Common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS): Uses an industry standard scoring system to assess the severity of vulnerabilities, helping prioritize which vulnerabilities to address first based on their potential impact What Is SNMP?
SNMP stands for Simple Network Management Protocol It is a widely used protocol for managing and monitoring network devices like routers, switches, firewalls, printers, and more SNMP acts as a communication tool that allows network administrators to collect valuable information about their network devices and identify potential issues Components of SNMP SNMP agents SNMP managers Software modules or processes running on network devices like routers, switches, servers, and IoT devices Centralized systems for monitoring and managing network devices, initiating SNMP requests to gather information from agents, and configuring and controlling devices SNMP traps Management information base Asynchronous notifications sent by SNMP agents to managers without a prior request, informing managers of specific events or conditions like hardware failures, high resource utilization, or security issues MIB specifies the type of information that can be monitored or managed on a device, with each piece of information assigned a unique identifier called an Object identifier (OID) SNMP Traps in Details Traps are alert messages sent from an SNMP enabled device to a management station or system, to indicate a significant event or change in the device's status Unlike a polling mechanism, traps are initiated by the devices themselves and provide immediate notification without the delay of a polling cycle Currently, version 3 (v3) is preferred and recommended because versions 1 (v1) and 2 (v2) exchange traps in clear text, which is not secure.
Details about v3 are described in the next slide Attributes of SNMPv3 Authentication Implements authentication protocols, such as HMAC MD5 or HMAC SHA, to confirm that a trap originates from a legitimate source 2 Message integrity Encryption Includes a checksum within a trap message to ensure that the data has not been altered during transmission Maintains the confidentiality of the content of a trap by encrypting messages using protocols like AES 1 3 SNMP SNMP agents SNMP server Router SNMP protocol SNMP trap Server Multilayer switch Intrusion Detection System IDS continuously monitors the environment and detects and alerts on malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access It can only detect, not prevent, and it operates in promiscuous mode IDS in promiscuous mode Internet Router Firewall Server Personal computer Functions of IDS Alerts and notification Generates alerts or notifications when a potential threat is detected, allowing security teams to investigate and respond to incidents promptly.
Uses sensors and collectors to gather information to raise the alert 2 Traffic analysis Inspects network traffic in realtime, examining data packets for unusual patterns, signatures, or behaviors that may indicate a security threat 1 Passive role 3 Serves as an early warning system, providing insights into potential security breaches without actively blocking or preventing attacks Intrusion Prevention System Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is a technology that monitors the environment and responds automatically when malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access are detected.
IPS in inline mode Internet Router Firewall Switch Personal computer Functioning of IPS Real time analysis and actions: An IPSs continuously analyze network traffic (much like NIDSs) but with the added ability to take immediate action, rather than simply monitor and generate alerts.
Blocking threats: It can take proactive steps to block or prevent malicious activity, such as dropping suspicious packets or blocking access to specific IP addresses.
Policy enforcement: It can enforce security policies and rules defined by administrators, ensuring that network traffic complies with security guidelines.
Alerting and reporting: It also generate alerts and reports, giving administrators visibility into the security events occurring within the network.
Security Information and Event Management Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions offer real time monitoring and analysis of events as well as tracking and logging of security data for compliance or auditing purposes.
Security Information and Event Management Security Event Management (SEM) provides real time monitoring of events by correlating and analyzing data from different security sensors in the system.
SEM + SIM = SIEM Security Information Management (SIMs) provide longterm storage and management of such event data.
SIEM Process Collect data from various sources (network devices, servers, firewalls, and IDS or IPS) Normalize and aggregate the collected data Analyze the data and identify the threats Pinpoint security breaches and enable organizations to investigate the alerts SIEM Capabilities Threat detection Ability to detect threats Main capabilities Response time Time to respond to an incident Incident investigation Investigation of incidents and anomalies SIEM Capabilities Aggregation Normalization Provides a centralized repository to gather information from various systems across the environment.
Processes logs into a meaningful, structured format to extract and interpret data efficiently across different sources.
Correlation Recognizes patterns to connect the dots and correlate events from various data sources.
SIEM Capabilities Reporting Real time monitoring Provides tools to visualize data and events in your environment.
Provides real time monitoring and threat detection across the organizations infrastructure, enabling rapid responses to potential data breaches.
Data Loss Prevention DLP involves implementing controls and practices to ensure that data is accessible only to authorized users and systems.
Data loss prevention DLP should be integrated as part of the risk management approach.
The goals of a DLP strategy are to manage risk, maintain regulatory compliance, and demonstrate due diligence by the application and data owners.
DLP focuses on external parties.
DLP Architecture This is also referred to as network based DLP or gateway DLP.
Data in motion In this topology, the monitoring engine is deployed near the organizational gateway to monitor outgoing protocols such as hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS), simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP), and file transfer protocol (FTP).
This is also referred to as storage based data.
Data at rest In this topology, the DLP engine is installed where the data is at rest, usually one or more storage subsystems, as well as file and application servers.
This topology is effective for data discovery and tracking usage but may require integration with network based or endpoint based DLP for policy enforcement.
Data in use This is also referred to as client or endpoint based.
The DLP application is installed on a users workstations and endpoint devices.
This topology offers insights into how users utilize the data, with the ability to add protection that network DLP may not be able to provide.
NetFlow NetFlow, originally developed by Cisco, is a protocol used for collecting and monitoring network traffic data.
It enables network administrators to understand the source, destination, volume, and paths of traffic flow across their networks.
This understanding is vital for security tasks, such as detecting anomalies, profiling traffic, and monitoring network performance.
While Cisco initiated NetFlow, it has been standardized as IPFIX by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), as documented in RFC 7011, RFC 7015, and RFC 5103.
Antivirus Antivirus software, also known as anti malware, is a computer program used to prevent, detect, and remove malware.
It was originally developed to detect and eliminate computer viruses.
Antivirus software continuously scans for malware indicators, suspicious activities, and emerging threats.
Once the antivirus algorithms detect a virus characterized by a distinct signature pattern, they can initiate predefined actions such as deleting or quarantining the virus, all configured within the antivirus console.
Vulnerability Scanners Vulnerability scanners automate the identification of weaknesses in systems and networks, acting as digital sentinels constantly searching for vulnerabilities.
Tools like Nessus and OpenVAS play a critical role in proactive defense, scanning for known vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability Scanning Stages Preassessment Define the assessment scope and configure the scanner with the right credentials and settings to ensure thorough and precise scanning.
Remediation and verification Use the information from vulnerability scanners to remediate identified issues Scanning Probe systems, applications, and networks to identify known vulnerabilities, such as unpatched software, misconfigurations, and insecure protocols Continuous monitoring Conduct regular scans as part of an ongoing vulnerability management program to discover new vulnerabilities as they emerge Post scan analysis Provide detailed reports categorizing vulnerabilities by their severity levels (critical, high, medium, and low) once a scan is complete Agent and Agentless in Data Gathering Agent based Agentless Uses software agents on individual devices or endpoints within a network Operates without the need for specialized agent deployment on endpoints Gathers information about the devices performance, configuration, and security Relies on existing protocols and interfaces to gather data from devices and systems remotely Transmits logged data to a SIEM server for analysis Uses sensors and collectors on the network to gather information Modifying Enterprise capabilities to Enhance Security Technologies for Enhancing Modern Enterprise Security In the modern business environment, characterized by a dispersed workforce, cloud technology, and persistent cyber threats, it's crucial to integrate various security technologies.
Key components of an effective security strategy include: Strong security framework: Integrating various technologies to protect against diverse threats Comprehensive security strategy: Combining multiple technologies to address the specific needs of your organization Technologies for Enhancing Modern Enterprise Security Firewalls Unified threat management Intrusion detection system Intrusion prevention system Web application firewall Zones Firewall Firewall has been the first line of defense in network security for over 25 years.
It is located at the intersection of two networks, usually a private and a public network such as the internet.
A firewall completely isolates your computer from the Internet by checking each data packet as it reaches either side of the firewall.
Secure Private Network Firewall Internet Firewall A firewall is a crucial network security device that controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Key features of firewalls include: Traffic analysis and control: Determines whether specific traffic should be allowed or blocked Types: Can be hardware, software, or a combination of both, enforcing network security policies Network segregation: Restricts access from one network to another Operational layers: Functions from Layer 3 to Layer 7 of the OSI model How does a firewall work Filtering: Firewalls examine network traffic based on predefined rules Blocking: Suspicious or malicious traffic is blocked Allowing: Safe and authorized traffic is permitted.
Unified Threat Management Unified Threat Management (UTM) integrates multiple security functions into a single platform, providing comprehensive protection and simplifying security management.
Key aspects of UTM include: Centralized security: Combines multiple security functions, eliminating the need for separate standalone appliances Threat protection: Safeguards against threats, malware, and network attacks from a single point Efficiency and cost effectiveness: Simplifies security management, reduces costs, and enhances overall protection Components of UTM Firewall: Protects the network from unauthorized 01 access Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Detects and prevents network attacks.
02 Antivirus/Anti malware: Protects against malicious software.
03 Spam filtering: Blocks unwanted email 04 VPN: Provides secure remote access 05 Web filtering: Controls access to websites based on content or user policies.
06 Content filtering: Blocks or allows specific types of content 07 Benefits of Unified Threat Management Enhanced threat protection: Provides a comprehensive approach to security.
Simplified management: Centralized management console for all security functions.
Improved efficiency: Streamlined security processes and reduced response times.
Enhanced protection: Comprehensive security coverage against various threats Limitations of UTM Vendor lock in Reliance on a single vendor for all security functions.
Complexity Some UTM solutions can be complex to configure and manage Performance impact High performance UTM appliances might be required for large networks.
Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) Evolution Over UTM The Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) is an advanced firewall that enhances traditional security measures with additional features.
Key characteristics of NGFWs include: Deep packet inspection: Conducts thorough analysis of data packets to identify threats Application level inspection: Monitors and controls applications to prevent intrusions External intelligence integration: Utilizes threat intelligence from external sources for improved security Key Features of Next Generation Firewall Application control: identifies and controls applications running on the network, allowing administrators to block or restrict specific apps Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Detects and prevents network attacks, providing an additional layer of protection.
Advanced Threat Protection (ATP): Utilizes techniques like sandboxing and behavioral analysis to identify and block advanced threats like malware and ransomware.
User identity and context awareness: enhances security by considering user identity, location, and device information Unified Threat Management (UTM): Often includes additional security features like web filtering, spam filtering, and VPN Benefits of Next Generation Firewall Enhanced threat protection: offers a more robust defense against modern threats.
Improved visibility: provides deeper insights into network traffic and application usage.
Simplified management: consolidates multiple security functions into a single platform Increased productivity: enhances user experience by blocking malicious content and applications UTM and NGFW S.No Feature UTM Pert Estimation NGFW 1 Focus Comprehensive security suite 2 Performance Lower Higher 3 Scalability Limited High 4 Management Centralized Complex 5 Cost Lower initial investment Higher initial investment Ideal for Small to medium sized businesses Large organizations 6 Advanced threat protection UTM vs. NGFW: Key Takeaways Choosing between Unified Threat Management (UTM) and Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) depends on your organization's specific needs.
Key takeaways include: Ease of management and cost: If you prioritize easy management and a lower initial investment, UTM might be sufficient Advanced protection and performance: For advanced threat protection and high performance, NGFW is the better option Feature overlap: Many NGFWs now offer some UTM capabilities and vice versa, providing flexibility in your security strategy Web Application Firewall Web Application Firewall (WAF) It filters and monitors HTTP traffic to protect web applications from attacks such as crosssite forgery, cross site scripting (XSS), file inclusion, and SQL injection.
It operates through rules or policies to filter out malicious traffic.
Types of WAF Network based WAF Deployed at the network level, inspecting traffic before it reaches the application server Host based WAF Installed directly on the web server, providing granular control over application specific traffic Cloud based WAF Offered as a cloud service, providing scalability and ease of deployment WAF Technologies Anomaly detection Signature based detection This traditional approach relies on a database of known attack signatures, comparing incoming traffic patterns against them.
Signature databases are regularly updated to include new threats.
Positive model(Whitelist) Only allows traffic matching pre defined criteria, essentially creating a "safe list" for authorized requests.
Offers strong protection against unknown threats and misconfigurations.
Analyzes traffic patterns to detect deviations from normal activity, indicating potential malicious intent.
Techniques include statistical analysis, machine learning, and behavioral profiling.
Negative model(Blacklist) Blocks traffic matching known attack signatures, essentially creating a block list of malicious patterns.
Easier to implement than whitelists.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention System Intrusion It refers to any unauthorized access, unauthorized attempt to access or damage, or malicious use of information systems.
It may compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information assets.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS) It is a solution that continuously monitors the environment and detects and alerts malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access.
IDS in promiscuous mode Internet Router Firewall Server Personal computer Main Functions of IDS It gathers and analyzes information from within a computer or a network to identify violations of the security policy, including unauthorized access and misuse.
It is also referred to as a packet sniffer, which intercepts packets traveling via various communication media and protocols, usually TCP/IP.
It evaluates traffic for suspected intrusions and raises the alarm upon detecting such intrusions.
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) It is a technology that monitors the environment and responds automatically when malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access are detected.
IPS in inline mode Internet Router Firewall Switch Personal computer Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites Cloud based IDS/IPS Traditional IDS/IPS relied on signature based detection, which struggles with novel attacks.
IDS/IPS solutions integrate with machine learning and AI.
Focus on network behavioral analysis These technologies empower systems to autonomously analyze and identify anomalous patterns, enabling the rapid detection of previously unknown threats.
Zero trust architecture This allows for better detection of zero day attacks and advanced persistent threats (APTs). IOT and OT protections Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites Cloud based IDS/IPS Focus on network behavioral analysis Zero trust architecture IOT and OT protections Modern IDS/IPS are being integrated with broader security suites that offer a unified platform for various security functionalities like firewalls, anti malware, and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management).
This consolidation simplifies security management and streamlines threat response Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites The rise of cloud computing has led to a surge in cloud based IDS/IPS solutions.
Cloud based IDS/IPS These offer scalability, flexibility, and easier deployment for organizations leveraging cloud infrastructure.
Focus on network behavioral analysis Additionally, cloud based threat intelligence sharing improves overall threat detection capabilities Zero trust architecture IOT and OT protections Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites Cloud based IDS/IPS Focus on network behavioral analysis Zero trust architecture IOT and OT protections Modern IDS/IPS go beyond just inspecting packet data.
They employ NBA techniques to analyze overall network traffic patterns and identify deviations from normal behavior.
This helps detect sophisticated attacks that attempt to blend in with legitimate traffic Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites The zero trust concept assumes that threats can exist both outside and inside a network.
Cloud based IDS/IPS This is driving IDS/IPS solutions to take a more holistic approach.
Focus on network behavioral analysis These systems now scrutinize traffic not only at the perimeter but also within the network, ensuring continuous monitoring and threat containment.
Zero trust architecture IOT and OT protections Trend Analysis in IPS/IDS AI and machine level integrations Convergence with security suites Cloud based IDS/IPS Focus on network behavioral analysis Zero trust architecture IOT and OT protections With the proliferation of IoT devices and operational technology (OT), IDS/IPS solutions are extending their reach to secure these traditionally vulnerable areas.
They now provide deep packet inspection and anomaly detection for IoT and OT environments.
Zones They serve as logical or physical boundaries, dividing a network into smaller, more manageable, and secure sections.
They also isolate different network parts, creating a barrier to prevent potential attackers from moving laterally.
If a threat actor breaches one zone, they will have difficulty accessing other zones containing critical resources.
Type of Zones Wide area network It is an external public network that covers a wide geographical area.
This is considered an untrusted zone Local area network (LAN) It is a network covering a small location such as a building or a company with staff working in close proximity.
This is seen as a trusted zone.
Screened subnet It is a company owned boundary layer designed to protect against external hackers.
It serves as a neutral zone for data accessible to both trusted and untrusted sources.
OSI, TCP/IP, and Protocols Introduction to Secure Network Architecture and Design Various communication protocols define communication.
OSI and TCP/IP models are the most popular models.
Communication is divided into different layers by both models.
Security is more efficiently addressed using the layered approach.
The protocols can be grouped into stacks or suites.
Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) This is a standard model for network communications and allows dissimilar networks to communicate.
OSI Model OSI describes how data and network information are communicated from one computer to another.
Each layer communicates with the same layers software or hardware on other computers.
Application 7 HTTP, FTP, DNS, SNMP, Telnet Presentation 6 SSL, TLS Session 5 Netbios, PPTP, PAP Transport 4 TCP, UDP Network 3 IP, ARP, ICMP, IPsec Data Link 2 PPP, ATM, Ethernet Physical 1 Ethernet, USB Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) OSI Model The four lower layers (transport, network, data link, and physical) manage end to end data flow through the network.
The three upper layers of the OSI model (application, presentation, and session) focus more on application services.
Data is encapsulated with the necessary protocol information as it moves down the layers before network transit.
Application Data 7 7 Data 6 6 Data 5 5 Segments 4 4 Transport Packets 3 3 Network Frames 2 2 Data Link Bits 1 1 Physical Presentation Session Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Application This is like the contents of the letter itself the information you want to communicate.
This is the data that the user interacts with, like your email or web browser.
Presentation This layer is like the person who opens the letter and translates it into a language you understand.
It changes the data into a format that the receiving computer can understand.
Session This layer is like making sure the mail is delivered to the correct mailbox.
It establishes, maintains, and ends communication with the receiving device Transport This layer acts like a security check.
It ensures that the data arrives safely without any errors, just like ensuring your letter is not damaged when it arrives.
Network This layer is like the post office system that determines the best route for the letter.
This layer finds the best path for the data to reach its destination.
Data link This layer is like the sorting process at the post office.
It prepares the data for transport on the physical layer by packaging it up and adding a delivery address.
Physical Like a mail truck, this layer is responsible for the actual delivery of data.
In a computer, it is the physical parts like the cables and wires that carry the data from one computer to another.
Working of the OSI Model Data is sent from a source computer to a destination computer.
Each protocol operates in a specific layer.
Each protocol in the source computer has a specific task assigned.
When the data packet reaches the destination computer, it moves up through the model.
Each protocol detaches and examines only the data attached by its counterpart at the source computer.
Each layer at the destination handles only the data packaged by its counterpart on the sending side.
Working of the OSI Model The following illustration explains how data travels in the OSI model: 1.
Data travels down the stack.
Host A Host B 7 Application 7 Application 6 Presentation 6 Presentation 5 Session 5 Session 4 Transport 4 Transport 3 Network 3 Network 2 Data Link 2 Data Link 1 Physical 1 Physical 2.
Data travels through the network.
Then, data travels up the receiving stack.
Transmission Control Protocol or Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Model TCP/IP is the common name for the suite of protocols originally developed by the Department of Defense (DoD).
Application Represents data to the user, including encoding and dialog control Host to host or transport Supports communication between devices across different networks Internet Network access Determines the optimal path through the network Controls the hardware and media that constitute the network Comparison of OSI and TCP/IP Models The TCP/IP model is very similar to the OSI model; however, it has fewer layers.
OSI model layers TCP/IP protocol architecture layers Application layer Presentation layer Application layer Session layer Transport layer Host to host transport Layer Network layer Internet layer Data Link layer Network access layer Physical layer Types of Network Protocols Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) User Datagram Protocol (UDP) Internet Protocol (IP) Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) TCP provides a complete duplex and reliable connection.
Reliable data transport is addressed by TCP to ensure that the following goals are achieved: An acknowledgment is sent back to the sender.
Any unacknowledged segments are retransmitted.
Segments are reassembled in their correct order.
TCP It maintains a manageable data flow.
The types of ports are reserved or well known ports (0 to 1023), registered ports (1024 to 49151), and dynamic ports (49152 to 65535).
Examples of applications that use TCP: HTTP, FTP, and Telnet.
TCP is costly in terms of network overhead and is slower than UDP.
TCP Flags TCP flags are control bits in the TCP header that provide crucial information about network connection states.
They play a key role in establishing, managing, and terminating TCP connections.
FIN (Finish): SYN (Synchronize): ACK (Acknowledge): Used to initiate a connection Confirms the receipt of data Indicates the end of the data transmission from one side of the connection RST (Reset): PUSH (Push): URG (Urgent): Abruptly terminates an existing connection Requests the immediate delivery of data Indicates that urgent data follows in the packet TCP Handshake Process A TCP three way handshake is used to create a connection between a local host or client and server.
Send SYN SYN received Established SYN SEQ=100, CTL = SYN SYN/ACK SEQ=300, ACK=101, CTL = SYN, ACK SYN received Send SYN, ACK ACK SEQ=101, ACK=301, CTL = ACK Connection Established Client CTL = Which control bits in the TCP header are set to 1 Server User Datagram Protocol (UDP) UDP is not very similar to TCP.
It gives only best effort delivery.
It is referred to as an unreliable protocol.
It is considered a connectionless protocol.
Examples of applications that use UDP: DNS, TFTP, and VoIP.
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) Request Response Response Server Client TCP vs. UDP TCP UDP TCP establishes connection between the computers before transmitting the data.
UDP sends data directly to the destination computer without checking if the system is ready to receive it.
Connection Connection oriented protocol Connectionless protocol Speed Slow Fast Reliability Highly reliable Unreliable Header size 20 bytes 8 bytes Acknowledgement It takes acknowledgment of data and It neither takes acknowledgement nor has the ability to re transmit if the user re transmits the lost data.
What Is ARP?
ARP stands for Address Resolution Protocol.
It is a crucial protocol in networking, especially on LANs, such as the home or office networks.
ARP translates logical IP addresses, which identify devices on a network, into physical addresses.
ARP These physical addresses are called media access control (MAC) addresses and are embedded into every network interface card (NIC).
Internet Protocol (IP) Internet Protocol is a network layer protocol, which handles addressing and routing.
IP specifies the packet format or datagrams and the addressing scheme.
The two types of IP versions are IPv4 (32 bit address) and IPv6 (128 bit address).
Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) ICMP is a management and messaging protocol for IP.
Its primary function is to send messages between network devices.
It can inform hosts of a better route to a destination.
Ping is an ICMP utility used to check the connectivity of devices on a network.
Web Filtering Technologies Web Filtering It refers to technology that monitors and controls which websites users can access on a network.
It acts like a digital gatekeeper, allowing access to some sites and blocking others based on predefined criteria.
Web filtering is an essential tool for managing internet access and promoting online safety.
However, it is crucial to carefully consider the filtering approach and ensure it aligns with your specific needs and ethical considerations.
Web Filtering Technologies Agent based filtering Agent based filtering deploys software agents on individual devices to enforce internet filtering rules, ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
It offer real time protection at the host and application level, safeguarding every aspect of the network.
Universal resource locator Centralized proxy filtering Centralized proxy servers act as intermediaries, intercepting and scrutinizing each internet request, applying filtering rules, and allowing only approved traffic.
URL scanning analyzes the web addresses you visit, comparing them against a database of known malicious sites.
If it detects a match, it raises the alarm, ensuring you dont navigate into dangerous territory.
Web Filtering Technologies Content categorization Web filtering systems classify websites into categories such as news, social media, or shopping. This helps organizations control access by allowing or blocking entire categories, ensuring users remain productive and safe.
Reputation based filtering Block rules Block rules allow administrators to specify which websites or content types are off limits.
If a user attempts to access a blocked resource, the web filter redirects them away from danger.
Reputation based filtering assesses the trustworthiness of websites based on their history.
If a website has a bad reputation for hosting malware or engaging in malicious activities, this filter protects users from harm.
Operating System Security Operating System (OS) Security This involves taking steps to protect an operating system from unauthorized access, data breaches, malware infections, and other threats.
It is crucial for overall computer security, ensuring the system's stability, integrity, and confidentiality.
Operating System Security Keep the system updated: OS hardening starts with regular updates.
Ensure your OS, software, and applications are up to date with the latest security patches.
User Account Control: UAC ensures that actions requiring administrative privileges are authorized.
It prompts users for consent or administrator credentials, preventing malware from executing unnoticed.
Minimize attack surface: Disable or remove unnecessary services and software, as each running service or application is a potential entry point for attackers.
Implement strong authentication: Strengthen user authentication with strong, complex passwords.
Enforce policies that require password changes at regular intervals.
Operating System Security Employ access controls: Follow the principle of least privilege by limiting user and application access to only what is necessary for specific tasks.
Regularly review and audit user permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
Enable firewall protections: Activate a firewall to filter incoming and outgoing network traffic, allowing only trusted connections and services to block potential attack vectors.
Encrypt data: Implement encryption for sensitive data both at rest and in transit.
Use Full Disk Encryption (FDE) to encrypt data at rest.
Other technologies include BitLocker (Windows), FileVault (macOS), and LUKS (Linux).
Monitor and log activities: Enable system logging and monitoring to keep an eye on system activities.
Analyze logs regularly to detect anomalies or signs of potential threats.
Operating System Security Patch management: Establish a robust patch management process.
Regularly review vendor security advisories and apply patches promptly.
Educate users: Human error is a significant security risk.
Train users on best practices, security policies, and the importance of vigilance.
Back up the data: Regularly back up your data and system configurations.
In the event of a security incident or data loss, having a reliable backup can be a lifesaver.
Disaster recovery plan: Develop a comprehensive disaster recovery plan.
Know how to restore your system quickly and efficiently in case of a breach or catastrophic failure.
Group Policy This is used to uniformly apply security settings and automate software installations or updates across a network.
It can also customize users desktops to establish a standardized baseline for the organization.
It is not limited to security settings; it can also automate software installation and updates across a network.
This ensures that all users have consistent software versions and configurations.
Security Enhanced Linux (SELinux) This is a robust security mechanism that provides fine grained access control.
It maintains a security policy for system resources and enforces it through kernel level controls and user space utilities.
It follows the principle of least privilege, ensuring that each process and user can only access necessary resources.
It adds an extra layer of security by enforcing access based on predefined policies, regardless of file ownership or user permissions.
Email Security Email Security Email is a digital method used to exchange messages and attachments between people and organizations over the internet or computer networks.
Email security encompasses methods and technologies that protect accounts, information, and users from threats.
It guards against unauthorized access, phishing, and spam, acting like a shield for your inbox.
What Is the Sender Policy Framework (SPF)?
It is an email authentication protocol designed to combat email spoofing, a tactic commonly used in phishing attacks.
SPF acts as a whitelist for email senders.
The domain owner (the owner of the email address, like @example.com) publishes an SPF record in their Domain Name System (DNS).
This record specifies which email servers are authorized to send emails on behalf of that domain.
o If the IP address of an email server from which they receive email is in the SPF records, then it is legitimate.
How Does SPF Work?
SPF record The domain owner publishes an SPF record in their DNS, listing the authorized mail servers allowed to send emails for that domain.
Email received SPF check When an email arrives, the receiving mail server checks the SPF record of the sender's domain.
The mail server compares the IP address of the sender with the authorized servers listed in the SPF record.
SPF fail If there is no match, the email might be flagged as suspicious, though SPF results alone do not necessarily mean spam.
SPF Pass If the sender's IP address matches an authorized server, the email is considered legitimate.
What Is DomainKeys Identified Email (DKIM)?
It is an email authentication protocol that works with SPF to enhance email security.
It adds cryptographic verification to prevent tampering.
This method allows senders to digitally sign their emails, and recipients' servers validate these signatures for authenticity.
DKIM Process Verification When the receiving mail server gets the email, it retrieves the sender's public key from the DNS record and uses it to verify the digital signature.
Digital signing When you send an email through a DKIM enabled server, a digital signature is added using a cryptographic key pair: a private key on the sending server and a public key in the domain's DNS records.
Authentication 2 1 3 If verification is successful, it means the signature matches the sender's domain, and the email is likely authentic, ensuring it originated from the claimed domain.
Domain based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC) This is an email authentication protocol that enhances email security.
It works alongside SPF and DKIM to specify how mail servers should handle failed authentication.
It empowers domain owners to dictate actions when authentication fails and instructs email receivers on handling unauthenticated messages.
It acts as the final layer of defense in the email authentication trio, alongside SPF and DKIM.
How DMARC Works SPF check The receiving mail server uses SPF to validate that the email is from an IP address listed in the DNS records of the sending domain.
If the sending IP address is not listed in the SPF record, the email fails this check.
DKIM check DMARC policy retrieval The receiving mail server uses DKIM to verify the email header's digital signature against the sender's public DNS key.
If the signature does not match, the email fails this check.
The receiving mail server retrieves the DMARC policy from the sending domain's DNS records, which specifies actions if SPF or DKIM checks fail.
Reporting DMARC allows the sender to specify an email address for receiving DMARC verification reports.
Policy enforcement Based on the DMARC policy, the receiving mail server decides whether to deliver the email to the recipients inbox, send it to the spam folder, or reject it outright.
Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME) This is a widely used standard for securing email communication through digital signatures and encryption.
It utilizes a public key cryptography system to achieve this.
Encryption: When sending a secure email using S/MIME, the recipient's public key encrypts the email content, making it unreadable to anyone without the corresponding private key.
Digital signatures: S/MIME also allows for digitally signing emails using your private key to create a unique signature attached to the email.
Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) This is software that encrypts and decrypts emails, files, and even entire disk partitions.
It offers versatile cryptographic privacy and authentication for various types of data.
This secure email method revolves around a pair of keys: a public key, which is openly shared, and a private key, closely guarded by the user.
To send an encrypted message, the sender uses the recipient's public key.
Only the recipient, with the corresponding private key, can decrypt the message.
This method does not rely on PKI infrastructure.
Email Gateway An email gateway acts as a security checkpoint for email communications, scanning all incoming and outgoing emails for potential threats.
Email gateways serve as a crucial line of defense against various email threats, such as spam, malware, and phishing attacks.
Gateways allow policies to be created based on attachments, malicious URLs, and content to prevent them from entering your mail server.
They can also use data loss prevention to stop personally identifiable information (PII) and sensitive data from leaving the network via email.
File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) This is a security process that continuously checks and verifies the integrity of critical system files, applications, and databases to alert administrators of any unauthorized changes or corruption.
FIM safeguards systems by establishing a baseline of normal file and system configurations.
It continuously monitors these parameters in real time, promptly alerting the security team or IT administrators to unauthorized changes.
FIM helps mitigate threats early, ensures compliance with regulations, detects insider threats, protects critical assets, and provides valuable forensic assistance after security incidents.
Use native tools built into Windows by running the sfc/scannow command with admin privileges.
DNS Filtering DNS filtering is a security technique that manages internet access by evaluating and filtering DNS requests.
It blocks or permits access to specific websites or content categories based on established policies, enhancing network security and compliance.
DNS filtering leverages the DNS to control and restrict internet access on a network.
DNS Filtering Functions Block access to malicious sites: Prevents access to malicious websites, stopping users from stumbling upon phishing or malware sites.
Filter content: Enables organizations to enforce content policies, restrict access to specific website categories, boost productivity, and mitigate legal risks.
Enhance privacy: Offers a layer of privacy protection by blocking access to websites that might track or collect user data without consent, thus safeguarding personal information.
Reinforce security: Blocks access to malicious domains, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches.
User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) This is a cyber threat detection technology that uses machine learning and deep learning to model the behavior of users and devices on corporate networks.
It can identify abnormal behavior, determine if it has security implications, and alert the security team accordingly.
User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) Malware event SIEM UEBA SOAR SIEM (Security information and event management) SOAR (Security orchestration, automation, and response) User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) User UEBA technology can monitor user behavior for any peculiar or suspicious activity.
Entity This technology can monitor entities other than users, such as routers, servers, applications, or even IoT devices.
Behavior It establishes a baseline of normal behavioral profiles and patterns, then identifies anomalies that deviate from that baseline, which have security significance.
Analytics The analytics tools based on AI and machine learning algorithms do not require signatures or human intervention and provide automated, accurate threat and anomaly detection.
Antivirus, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) Antivirus Antivirus software, also called anti virus software, is a program designed to protect the computer from malicious software (malware) such as viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and ransomware.
Antivirus software is essential for protecting the computer from various malware threats.
By blocking malware, it helps keep your computer secure and running smoothly.
Antivirus Functioning Scanning Antivirus software scans the computer for malware.
This can be done in real time as you access files or through periodically scheduled scans.
Detection When the antivirus software detects malware, it identifies the specific threat.
Removal It then quarantines or removes the malware from the system.
Prevention Some antivirus programs also include features to prevent malware from infecting the computer in the first place.
This might involve blocking malicious websites or suspicious email attachments.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) It is a cybersecurity technology that protects individual devices within a network from cyberattacks.
This solution focuses on desktops, laptops, servers, mobile devices, and other devices connected to the corporate network.
EDR systems are equipped with advanced monitoring and detection capabilities to identify potential threats by seeking out suspicious behavior.
EDR Functioning Data collection EDR solutions continuously collect data from endpoints, including system logs, file changes, network activity, and application behavior.
Detection Using a combination of signature based and behavior based analysis, EDR identifies anomalies and potentially malicious activities.
It compares the collected data against known threat indicators and behavioral patterns Alerting When EDR identifies suspicious activity or potential threats, it creates alerts for security personnel to investigate.
The alerts are ranked by severity to help prioritize responses.
Response EDR empowers security teams to respond swiftly to threats.
It provides tools to isolate compromised endpoints, contain threats, and remove malicious software.
Benefits of EDR Enhanced threat detection Improved business response Advanced threat hunting Improved visibility EDR goes beyond traditional antivirus by looking for unusual activity patterns that might indicate an attack, even if it's not previously known malware.
EDR provides the data and insights needed to quickly identify and respond to security incidents, minimizing potential damage.
Security teams can use EDR tools to proactively hunt for threats within their network, even if they haven't triggered any specific alerts.
EDR provides a comprehensive view of endpoint activity across the network, helping security teams identify vulnerabilities and improve their overall security posture. Antivirus vs. EDR Feature Focus Detection method Response capabilities Visibility Antivirus EDR Blocking known malware threats Detecting and responding to all threats Signature based detection Anomaly based and behavior detection Limited May quarantine or remove threats More advanced can isolate endpoints, block processes, etc.
Limited to individual files Provides a broader view of endpoint activity Extended Detection and Response (XDR) This is an advanced security solution that expands upon EDR.
While EDR focuses on securing individual devices, XDR takes a broader approach by extending threat detection and response capabilities across the entire IT infrastructure.
XDR covers a wider range of security data sources, providing a comprehensive view of the organizations digital environment and enabling security teams to detect and respond to threats across the entire attack surface.
XDR Functioning Unified visibility XDR integrates data from various security tools across the network, providing a comprehensive view of potential security threats.
Advanced analytics XDR uses advanced analytics to correlate data from various sources, enabling it to detect complex threats and connections that EDR might miss.
Improved threat hunting Security teams can use XDR to proactively hunt for threats across the entire network environment, enabling early detection and faster response to emerging threats.
Simplified management XDR simplifies security management for IT teams by consolidating security data into a single platform, allowing them to view security posture, investigate incidents, and manage responses from a central location Benefits of XDR Enhanced threat detection XDR's broader visibility and advanced analytics enable more effective detection of sophisticated cyberattacks that may bypass traditional security measures.
Faster incident response By correlating data from various sources, XDR helps security teams pinpoint the root cause of incidents more quickly and take decisive action to mitigate damage.
Improved security posture The comprehensive view provided by XDR allows organizations to identify security gaps and vulnerabilities across their entire IT infrastructure, enabling them to enhance their overall security posture.
Streamline security operations XDR simplifies security management by consolidating data and streamlining workflows, allowing security teams to operate more efficiently.
Secure Protocols Secure Communication Protocol Protocols act as a common language allowing different components to communicate using a known set of commands.
A secure protocol is a set of rules governing how data is securely transmitted between parties.
It involves encryption to scramble data and authentication to verify identities.
They have built in security mechanisms to enforce security by default.
Secure Protocols DNSSEC Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) is a set of extensions to the DNS protocol that, using cryptography, enables origin authentication of DNS data, authenticated denial of existence, and data integrity, but does not extend to availability or confidentiality.
SSH The Secure Shell Protocol (SSH) is an encrypted remote terminal connection program used for remote connections to a server.
SSH uses asymmetric encryption but generally requires an independent source of trust with a server, such as manually receiving a server key, to operate.
It uses TCP port 22 as its default port.
Secure Protocols S/MIME Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (MIME) is a standard for transmitting binary data via e mail.
Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME) is a standard for public key encryption and signing of MIME data in e mails.
S/MIME offers cryptographic protections to e mails and is built into most modern email software to facilitate interoperability.
SRTP The Secure Real time Transport Protocol (SRTP) is a network protocol for securely delivering audio and video over IP networks.
It uses cryptography to provide encryption, message authentication, integrity, and replay protection to the RTP data.
Secure Protocols SNMPv3 LDAPS Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is the primary protocol for transmitting directory information.
The Simple Network Management Protocol version 3 (SNMPv3) is a standard for managing devices on IP based networks.
By default, LDAP traffic is transmitted insecurely.
LDAP traffic can be made secure by using SSL/TLS, known as LDAP Secure (LDAPS).
Commonly, LDAP is enabled over SSL/TLS by using a certificate from a trusted certificate authority (CA).
It was developed specifically to address the security concerns and vulnerabilities of SNMPv1 and SNMPv2.
LDAPS communication occurs over port TCP 636.
SNMP is an application layer protocol, part of the IP suite of protocols, and can be used to manage and monitor devices, including network devices, computers, and other devices connected to the IP network.
All versions of SNMP require ports 161 and 162 to be open on a firewall.
Secure Protocols IMAPS Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP), does not secure data, including login credentials, by default.
IMAP over SSL/TLS (IMAPS) uses SSL/TLS to encrypt the communication channel between the email client and the mail server.
HTTPS HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure.
It encrypts communication between your browser and the website you are visiting, making the data unreadable to eavesdroppers.
Secure Protocols FTPS File Transfer Protocols Secure (FTPS) is the implementation of FTP over an SSL/TLS secured channel.
It supports complete FTP compatibility and provides encryption protections enabled by SSL/TLS.
FTPS uses TCP ports 989 and 990.
SFTP SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is the use of FTP over an SSH channel.
This leverages the encryption protections of SSH to secure FTP transfers.
Because SFTP relies on SSH, it uses TCP port 22.
Configuring Proton VPN Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a network security specialist, you are tasked with configuring Proton VPN to secure traffic routing and verify IP addresses.
The goal is to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over the network by encrypting internet traffic and masking the user's IP address.
This setup aims to enhance privacy, prevent unauthorized data access, and protect against online threats.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 02_Configuring_Proton_VPN Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install Proton VPN Implementing Network Segmentation and VLANs Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a network engineer, you are tasked with demonstrating the process of implementing network segmentation and VLANs using Cisco Packet Tracer.
The objective is to enhance network security and management by creating isolated virtual networks within a single physical infrastructure.
This involves configuring VLANs to segregate network traffic, thereby reducing the attack surface and improving overall network performance and security.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 03_Implementing_Network_Segmentation_and _VLANs Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install the Cisco Packet Tracer 2.
Load Sample Network and Connect Devices 3.
Assign IP Addresses and Verify Initial Connectivity 4.
Create VLANs 5.
Assign Ports to VLANs and Verify Configuration Implementing and Maintaining Identity and Access Management Access, Subject, Object, and Access Controls The terms access, subject, object, and access controls are defined as follows: Access Subject Object Access control The transfer of data between subjects and objects An active component that requires access to an object or the data within it A passive component that contains data or information The security feature that manages how a user or system interacts with and communicates with other systems and resources Identity and Access Management Policy An effective access control program in an organization begins with establishing identity and access management policies.
These policies include: Specifying access: Proper identification and authentication for users and programs Granting privileges: Guidelines for accessing various resources Preventing inconsistencies: Consistency in provisioning, administration, and access control management Improving governance: Enhancing the governance process Identity Management It involves the use of products to identify, authenticate, and authorize users through automated means.
The goals include: Increasing security and productivity Reducing cost, downtime, and repetitive tasks Identity and Access Management An IAM system consists of four main processes: Identification: Associating a valid subject with a computer or network account Accounting: Auditing the use of the account IAAA Authentication: Providing credentials to operate the account Authorization: Assigning rights, permissions, or privileges to the account Identification The process of an individual claiming or professing an identity To begin authentication, authorization, and accountability procedures, a subject must submit an identity to the system.
Identification Methods To authorize applications to access sensitive resources, digital identification methods are used.
Common types include: Username User ID Account number Personal Identification Number (PIN)Identification badge MAC address IP address Email address Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Guidelines for User Identification Three important security characteristics of identity are: Uniqueness User identification must be unique.
Non descriptiveness The user's role or job function should not be exposed by the identity (ID).
Secure issuance The ID issuing process must be welldocumented and secure.
Authentication It involves comparing one or more criteria to a database of legitimate identities, such as user accounts, to validate the subject's identity.
Comparing criteria to a database of legitimate identities Validating the subjects identity An example of identification and authentication is the use of a username and password.
Users identify themselves with usernames and authenticate with passwords.
Authorization It is the process of granting access to an object after the subject has been properly identified and authenticated.
Granting access to an object Identification and authentication of the subject For example, CRUD operations: create, read, update, and delete Accounting It refers to a system's ability to associate users and processes with their actions.
Associating users with their actions Associating processes with their actions Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi factor authentication is a type of authentication that necessitates the use of more than one different authentication factor in order to be successful.
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Based on the type of authentication, MFA can be categorized into: Something you know Something you have Something you are Implementing Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a security specialist, you are required to implement Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) to enhance the security of user accounts and sensitive data.
The goal is to provide an additional layer of protection by requiring users to verify their identity through multiple factors, such as something they know (password), something they have (security token or smartphone), and something they are (biometric verification).
This implementation aims to reduce the risk of unauthorized access and safeguard the organization's digital assets.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 04_Implementing_Multi Factor_Authentication_(MFA) Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Enable the two step verification of your Google account Type 1 Authentication: Password Password It is a secret data usually used to confirm a user's identity.
Problems with passwords Common password attacks Insecure Dictionary (Crack, John the Ripper) Easily broken Brute force (Lophtcrack) Subject to repudiation Hybrid attack (Dictionary and Brute Force) Trojan horse login program (Password sending Trojans) Social engineering The combination of username and password is the most common identification and authentication scheme.
Password Types Passphrase Longer than a password, in the form of a sequence of characters I will pass CISSP exam Manchester United is my favorite team A quick brown fox jumps over a lazy dog Cognitive passwords The individuals identity is verified based on opinion or fact based information What is the name of the high school you attended?
How many family members do you have?
What is your mothers maiden name?
One time password (OTP) Dynamic password will be valid for only one login session or transaction An OTP a bank sends to a customer via SMS Password Management Using passwords is a common practice for validating a users identity during the authentication process.
A process governing user passwords should consider the following steps: Set password length and time limits Create policies for password changes and resets Use previous login dates in banners Limit unsuccessful logins Limit the concurrent connections Enable auditing Password Management Self service password reset Any process or technology that allows users who have either forgotten their password or triggered an intruder lockout to authenticate with an alternate factor and repair their own problem without calling the help desk.
Assisted password reset Password synchronization Any process or technology that allows users who have either forgotten their password or triggered an intruder lockout to get their password reset with the help of the help desk.
A process, usually supported by software such as password managers, through which a user maintains a single password across multiple IT systems.
Password Manager It is a software application that securely stores and manages your login credentials for various online accounts and applications.
Password managers encrypt passwords and other sensitive data (such as credit card numbers or notes) using robust encryption algorithms.
They can generate complex, random passwords that are nearly impossible to guess or crack.
Many password managers offer cross device syncing, allowing you to access your passwords from any device you use, whether it's your computer, phone, or tablet.
Type 2 Authentication: Tokens Tokens Tokens prove user identity and authenticate to a system or application.
They can be software based or hardware based.
Attackers can compromise security by gaining control of the token and impersonating the owner, potentially compromising the authentication protocol.
Tokens must be secured to prevent being cloned, damaged, lost, or stolen.
Types of Token Tokens Synchronous tokens Asynchronous tokens Time based (e.g., RSA token) Challengeresponse Time Based One Time Password A time based one time password (TOTP) uses a cryptographic hash function to combine a secret key and a timestamp, creating an encrypted string for multi factor authentication.
Time Based One Time Password 01 A secret key is agreed upon and shared between the user and the server.
02 The internal clock between the user's device and the server must be synchronized.
03 The clock is based on Unix time, which counts the seconds since January 1, 1970, 00:00:00 UTC.
Time Based One Time Password 04 The number of seconds is rounded to 30 seconds by default.
05 The algorithm generates a hash value from the rounded number and the pre shared secret key.
06 The passcode from the user's device must match the server's passcode associated with the user's device.
Token Device: Asynchronous Challenge response is used to authenticate a user.
Example: Grid Cards.
User enters challenge number and PIN permanently associated with pad.
Challenge number is displayed on workstation.
1 2 5 4 3 Authentication server verifies response.
User enters response from handheld device.
Response is read.
Type 3 Authentication: Biometric Biometrics Verifies a person by analyzing the individual's unique physiological or behavioral characteristics, making it one of the most effective and accurate methods of verifying identification Belongs to the something you are category Biometric Authentication Enrollment is the first step in setting up biometric authentication, done by scanning the selected biometric information.
Steps used in the scanning process: 1 Obtain biometric samples from the target using the sensor module.
2 Record features that uniquely identify the target in the sample using the feature extraction module.
Efficacy Rates and Considerations Factors to be considered when implementing biometric authentication are: Cost of implementation Privacy concerns Accessibility concerns Biometrics: Characteristics Biometrics, based on individuals physiological and behavioral characteristics, is one of the most effective and accurate methods for verifying identification.
Acceptance Throughput rate Refers to user acceptance of the biometric system Also called the biometric system response time Depends on the privacy intrusiveness and psychological or physical discomfort Refers to the time taken to process an authentication request Enrollment time Physical controls Refers to the time taken by the biometric system to register and create an account for the first time Biometric Authentication Patterns used to identify people biometrically are: Physical Behavioral Fingerprints Voice recognition Iris and facial recognition Typing pattern matching Biometrics The following are some common types of biometrics: Keyboard pattern recognition Facial scan Retina scan Iris scan Voice pattern recognition Fingerprint Signature scan Palm scan Errors in Access Control Error % False rejection rate (FRR) occurs when the authentication system falsely rejects a legitimate user.
This is called a false negative.
Sometimes, false rejection is called a Type I error.
Sensitivity FRR Errors in Access Control Error % FAR False acceptance rate (FAR) occurs when the authentication system falsely accepts an unauthorized user.
This is called a false positive authentication.
Sometimes, false acceptance is called a Type II error.
Sensitivity Errors in Access Control Error % FAR Crossover error rate (CER) is the point where the false acceptance rate (FAR) and the false rejection rate (FRR) are equal.
The lowest CER value indicates the most accurate system.
CER Sensitivity FRR Errors in Access Control Error % FAR Higher sensitivity increases false rejection (false positives) Lower sensitivity increases false acceptance (false negatives) CER Sensitivity FRR Biometric and Behavioral Technologies Certain biometric and behavioral technologies can be used for purposes other than login authentication: Biometric identification Continuous authentication Matches people to a database rather than having them perform identity verification themselves Verifies that the logged in user is still operating the device Passwordless Authentication Passwordless Authentication Passwordless authentication allows users to log into a system without entering a password or any other knowledge based secret.
Users input public identification and provide secure proof of identity through a registered device or token to complete the procedure.
Passwordless Authentication Why Passwordless?
Presents usernames and passwords as the most common and insecure forms of authentication Shows that over two thirds of people reuse passwords across sites Reports that eighty one percent of successful cyber attacks in 2018 were due to compromised usernames or passwords, according to a Verizon report Passwordless Authentication Why Passwordless?
Reduces risk by 99.9% Adds an additional layer of protection with MFA Does not require a memorized secret Passwordless Authentication The users identity can be proved using an alternative factor such as: Something you have Something you are A cellular phone, OTP token, smart card, or hardware token Fingerprints, retinal scans, or face and voice recognition.
Benefits Eliminates the need for end users to create, manage, or remember passwords Highlights the fragility of passwords and their role in security violations, promoting passwordless security as a better option Reduces the headache for IT departments in resetting lost passwords Authorization and Accounting Access Criteria An organization should grant access privileges to subjects based on their level of trust and need to know basis.
Access criteria include the following: Transaction Roles Groups Access is based on user privileges to perform specific commands and functions on data.
Access is granted depending on the role or job function in the organization.
Create user groups and assign rights and privileges to these groups.
1 2 3 4 Location Time Access is given based on the location of the user.
Access is granted depending on the time of the day.
5 Authorization Concepts Authorization is based mainly on the following concepts.
Need to know principle According to this principle, the subject is given access to specific information depending on their job, duties, and requirements.
Authorization creep Authorization creep occurs when an employee moves from one department to another and is assigned new access rights without reviewing and removing old permissions.
Access control list (ACL) An access control list specifies the subjects granted access and the operations allowed on objects.
Default to zero Access controls should start with zero access, allowing the administrator to grant access based on the organizations security policy.
Least Privilege According to the concept of least privilege, users should be given only the minimum access necessary to accomplish their tasks.
Least Privilege This guarantees that users cannot execute any tasks that are not part of their allocated duties.
For example, less than 1% of Google employees get to set foot inside their data centers.
Need to Know The need to know principle ensures that users are granted access only to the information necessary to complete their work tasks.
Separation of Duties The separation of duties principle ensures that the sensitive tasks are split into the tasks performed by more than one person.
Separation of Duties Separation of duties is an internal control that creates a system of checks and balances to prevent fraud and errors.
Accountability Accountability ensures users are responsible for their actions and enforces security policies.
The following provides an overview of items and actions that can be audited and logged: System level events System or computer performance Successful and unsuccessful login attempts Timestamps of the login attempts Application level events Error messages File modifications User level events Physical controls Identification and authentication attempts Commands used Accountability Non repudiation ensures that users, processes, and actions are held accountable for their impacts.
Strong identification Enforcement policies Independent audits Organizational behavior Timely monitoring Strong authentication Requirements to ensure the accountability of actions Accurate audit logs User training Federation Identity Management Federated Identity Management (FIM) Federated identity Is a portable identity, and along with its associated entitlements, can be used across business boundaries Allows a user to be authenticated across multiple IT systems and enterprises Is based on linking a users otherwise distinct identity at two or more locations without the need to synchronize or consolidate directory information Federated Identity Management (FIM) Federated identity management Addresses the identity management issues that arise when multiple organizations need to share the same applications and users between them Requires each organization in the federation to subscribe to a common set of policies, standards, and procedures for the provisioning and management of user identification, authentication, and authorization information Establishes a trust relationship among participating organizations Federated Identity Management (FIM): Example John is authenticated to company B When you book a flight on Expedia, the website asks if you also want to book a hotel room.
If you click Yes, you could then be directed to the Hilton Hotel website, which provides information on the hotel closest to the airport you are flying into.
John is authenticated to company A John is authenticated to company C You dont have to log in again to book a room.
You logged in on the Expedia website, and that website sent your information to the Hilton website, all of which happened transparently.
John is authenticated to company D Assertions Types of Federated Identity Management Cross certification model Trusted third party Federated Management Models Company A Cross certification model Certifies every other participating organization Manages trust relationships, which become difficult as the number of participating organizations increases Trust Trust Plays the roles of both identity provider and service provider, depending on communication Company B Trust Company C Federated Management Models Trusted third party Trust third party Subscribes to the standards and practices of a trusted third party, which manages the verification and due diligence process for all participating organizations Considers the participating organizations trustworthy after verification by the third party Trust Trust Acts as a trusted entity or bridge between participating organizations for identity verification purposes Serves as the identity provider in the trusted third party certification model, with other organizations serving as service providers Company A Company B Trust Company C Federation Identity Management Standards Federation Identity Management Standards Federation identity management relies on several key standards to ensure interoperability and security.
Security assertion markup language (SAML) Service provisioning markup language (SPML) FIM standards OpenID connect OAuth Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Security assertion markup language Allows the exchange of authentication and authorization data between security domains as an XML standard Provides the authentication pieces to the federated identity management systems Uses SAML and SPML for access needs in federated identity systems Offers SSO capabilities to access different browsers Relies on TLS for message confidentiality and digital signatures for message integrity, lacking a security mode SAML components Principle Identity provider User requesting access Entity authenticating the user Service provider Entity providing service to the user Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) The diagram below will help you understand SAML.
IDENTITY PROVIDER 1 SAML 2 DIRECTORY TRUST RELATIONSHIP 3 USERS Using a web browser or mobile device SAML Checking Savings Credit card APPLICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER Service Provisioning Markup Language (SPML) Service provisioning markup language Exchanges provisioning data between applications within one organization or across different organizations Automates user management and access entitlement configuration across multiple provisioning systems Integrates and interoperates service provisioning requests across various platforms SPML components Requesting authority Provisioning service provider Service target Makes requests to set up or modify accounts Software that responds to account requests Carries out provisioning activities on the requested system OpenID Connect Allows you to use an existing account to sign in to multiple websites without needing to create new passwords OpenID Enables you to share information like your name or email address with the websites you visit, while controlling how much information is shared Ensures that only your identity provider receives your password, which then confirms your identity to the websites you visit Prevents other websites from ever seeing your password, eliminating the risk of compromising your identity on unscrupulous or insecure websites OAuth OAuth is an open standard authorization protocol or framework that describes how unrelated servers and services can safely allow authenticated access to their assets without sharing the initial, related, and single login credentials.
In authentication parlance, this is known as secure, third party, user agent, and delegated authorization.
OAuth: Example User The simplest example of OAuth is when you log in to a website, and it offers you one or more options to log in using another website or service login.
You then click on the button linked to the other website.
That website authenticates you, and the website you were originally connecting to logs you in using the permission obtained from the second website.
SERVICE Login ID & password Authorize User Account has Users Data App Third party application Continue with google Continue with feedly Continue with facebook Difference between SAML, OAuth, and OpenID SAML 2.0 OAuth2.0 OpenID connect Authorization and authentication Authorization Authentication History Developed by OASIS in 2001 Developed by Twitter and Google in 2006 Developed by the OpenID Foundation in 2004 Data format XML JSON JSON Use case SSO for enterprise applications SSO for consumer applications Purpose Single Sign On Single Sign On (SSO) This technology allows users to log in to multiple applications with just one set of credentials.
With SSO, the user enters credentials only once to gain access to all the corporate resources to which they are entitled.
Imagine having a master key for your house that unlocks all the doors SSO is like that for your digital life.
Single Sign On (SSO) Pros Cons Users have one password for all enterprise systems and applications.
Difficult to implement Only one strong password needs to be remembered and used Centralized point of failure User accounts can be easily created on hire and modified or deleted on dismissal.
Potential data compromise Single Sign On (SSO) SSO technologies: Kerberos SESAME Dumb terminal Script based sign on The Kerberos authentication protocol uses a key distribution center, tokens or tickets, and symmetric key cryptography.
The Secure European System for Applications in a Multivendor Environment (SESAME) authentication protocol uses asymmetric cryptography.
Thin clients' or dumb terminals' access control, processing, and storage depend on a central server.
An organization can implement its SSO solution by developing a script.
Kerberos Kerberos is an authentication protocol that offers a single sign on solution for distributed environments.
It uses a client/server model based on tickets to allow nodes to securely interact on an insecure network and confirm their identity to one another.
Key Features of Kerberos Single Sign on Kerberos is an open protocol that allows users to authenticate only once to access multiple resources within a Kerberos realm.
Strong Encryption It uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) symmetric key cryptography to protect data confidentiality and integrity Mutual Authentication Both the client and the server are authenticated, ensuring the identity of both parties Key Features of Kerberos Ticket Based Authentication: Uses tickets for access, reducing password transmission Centralized Management It uses a Key Distribution Center (KDC) which allows Centralized management of user credentials and ticket issuance.
Scalability: Can handle large numbers of users and services Key Distribution Center (KDC) It is a central authentication server in the Kerberos protocol, responsible for issuing tickets that allow users to access network services.
Authentication Service (AS) Ticket Granting Service (TGS) AS handles initial authentication and issues the TGT.
The AS is the first component in the Kerberos authentication process.
It verifies user credentials.
and issues a TGT to authenticate the client.
TGS issues service tickets (ST) based on presented TGT.
The TGS validates TGT and issues service tickets, which are used for accessing the services.
Key Distribution Center (KDC) It is a trustworthy third party that offers authentication services.
Ticket Granting Ticket (TGT) A TGT verifies that a subject has been verified by a KDC and is authorized to request tickets for access to other objects.
A TGT contains a symmetric key, an expiry period, and the user's IP address, and is encrypted with the TGS secret key.
When seeking tickets to access objects, subjects present the TGT.
Service Ticket It is an encrypted message that proves a subject is authorized to access an object.
Kerberos issues service tickets to subjects who seek access to objects.
Kerberos service tickets feature a set of lifetime and usage constraints.
The client must request a renewal or a new service ticket to continue communicating with any server after the current ticket expires.
Kerberos Steps When a user wishes to log on to the network and access a print server, the following steps are performed: The TGS responds with a client/server session key for printing and provides a service ticket encrypted with the printers key.
The KDC sends the client a session key encrypted with the user's password hash and a TGT encrypted with the TGS's secret key.
02 01 The client sends the tokens to the printer with a valid C/S session key, and the server allows the client to print.
04 05 03 After decrypting the session key, the client forwards it to TGS to get permission to print.
The client sends an authentication request to the authentication server (KDC).
Kerberos Authentication Process KDC Hi, Im Bob and I need a TGT 1 Hi Bob, here is your TGT AS TGS Here is my TGT.
Give me a service ticket to access the mail server.
2 Heres your service ticket Client: Bob 3 Here is my service ticket, authenticate me Hi Bob, heres your mail Weakness of Kerberos Can be a single point of failure Vulnerable to password guessing Leads to the compromise of the secret key for every system on the network if compromised Requires all client and server clocks to be synchronized within five minutes Difference Between FIM and SSO Federated identity management (FIM) Single sign on (SSO) FIM enables a single credential to access multiple applications and resources across multiple organizations.
SSO enables a single credential to access multiple applications and resources within one organization.
FIM provides SSO.
SSO does not necessarily provide FIM.
Privilege Access Management Privileged Access Management (PAM) PAM, also known as privileged identity management (PIM) or privileged account management, is a cybersecurity strategy that aims to secure access to vital systems and resources within an organizations IT environment.
These accounts have elevated permissions that allow them to make significant changes to systems and data.
If compromised by unauthorized users, the damage can be severe.
Just in Time (JIT) JIT access control is a security practice that grants users elevated privileges only when necessary for a specific task and for a limited period.
It is a cornerstone of privileged access management (PAM) and aligns with the principle of least privilege.
By adopting JIT access control, organizations can significantly enhance their security posture and protect sensitive data.
Just in Time (JIT) JIT enables organizations to grant users on demand and privileged access to applications or systems for a predetermined period of time on an as needed basis.
The requests can be verified against a pre approval policy or reviewed by an administrator who has the power to grant or deny the requests for short term privileged access.
JIT access can be provided using ephemeral certificates JIT enforces the security principle of least privilege by providing users the least amount of access to perform the required job for the minimum duration necessary.
Source: www.centrify.com/pam/privilege elevation/ Business Scenario Kevin was concerned about the security of the cloud virtual machines and wanted to reduce the risk of privileged access abuse and lateral movement by threat actors.
He learned about just in time (JIT) access, which enables always on access by enforcing time based restrictions based on behavioral and contextual parameters.
After he enabled the JIT feature on the VMs, he created a policy that determines the ports to be protected, how long ports remain open, and the approved IP addresses from which these ports can be accessed.
He enabled just in time access to lock down the virtual machines at the network level by blocking inbound traffic to management ports such as 22 (SSH) and 3389 (RDP).
The JIT access allowed Kevin to control the access and reduce the attack surface to his virtual machines by allowing need based access for a limited period.
Ephemeral Credentials Ephemeral credentials are temporary access keys that offer extra security by minimizing the window of opportunity for attackers.
They are short term, one time use credentials often used by IT administrators for specific projects.
These credentials are secure because they only work for a limited time, making it difficult for attackers to exploit them.
Password Vaulting Password vaulting, or password management, securely stores and manages login credentials for online accounts and applications.
It involves removing administrative and privileged accounts from the Active Directory environment and storing them in password vaults, typically software solutions.
When a request for PAM is authorized, the ticket is released for the approved period.
Implementing and Managing Authorization Mechanisms Access Control Model An access control model is a framework that dictates how subjects access objects.
Mandatory access control (MAC) Each model type uses different methods to control how subjects access objects.
An organization's business and security goals will help determine which access control model it should use.
Discretionary access control (DAC ) Types of access control models Role based access control (RBAC) These models are built into the core or the kernel of different operating systems and possibly their supporting applications as well.
Rule based access control The way a subject accesses an object is guided by an access control model.
Attribute based access control (ABAC) Risk based access control Discretionary Access Control (DAC) Can read file Access to resources is determined by data owners.
Access control depends on the owners discretion and the authorization granted to users.
Access control lists (ACLs) are used to Can read file Jane John Can write to file Cant write to file PAYROLL FILE Access control list Jane can read and write file John can read file Cant write to file Cant read file enforce the security policy.
Sam Mandatory Access Control (MAC) The systems security policy is enforced by the operating system using security labels.
Resources have security labels containing data classification, and the users have security clearances.
This model is used when information classification and confidentiality are important.
TOP SECRET [ALPHA] Jane Can read file SECRET [VENUS TANK ALPHA] Can read file Can write to file John Cant write to file LOGISTIC FILE Sensitivity Label SECRET [VENUS ALPHA] Role Based Access Control (RBAC) RBAC is a widely used approach to restricting access to computer systems and networks.
Identities It defines different roles within a system and assigns permissions to those roles.
Users are assigned roles based on their job functions or needs.
This approach simplifies access management and ensures that users only have the access they need to perform their jobs.
Roles Role assignments Resources Permissions Rule Based Access Control (RBAC) Access requests are evaluated against predefined rules that determine the access to be granted.
The rules are in the form of if or then statements.
They are not necessarily identity based; they can apply to all users or subjects regardless of their identities.
Example: Routers and firewalls use rules to filter incoming and outgoing traffic within an ACL, as defined by an administrator.
The firewall examines all traffic and only allows traffic that meets one of the rules.
Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC) An access control method where requests to perform operations on objects are granted or denied based on attributes of the subject, attributes of the object, environment conditions, and specified policies. ~ NIST Granular policies can be established by combining these attributes to grant or deny access.
Attributes provide details for building authorization policies, such as who wants access to what, from where, when, and why.
Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC) The following diagram describes the ABAC principle.
User Environment Information asset Subject attributes Environment attributes Resource and action attributes Permit managers to PERMIT provided that if or.
unless DENY Authorization engine Copyright Risk Based Access Control This is a dynamic authentication method that takes into account the security risk value related to each access request as a criterion to determine access decisions.
Users authenticating from known devices, locations, and networks with a low risk score could be automatically signed in.
Suspicious users are required to provide additional credentials using MFA.
Access requests with a high risk score would be denied.
Low risk User profile SSO/Password Medium risk MFA 1 High risk Access blocked X Risk Based Access Control Main elements of a risk based access control model: Risk factors Access request Risk estimation User / Agent Access policies Access decision Manage the Identity and Access Provisioning Lifecycle Identity Proofing Confirms a person's identity to ensure the authenticity and legitimacy of their actions Acts as a foundational step in identity and access management, helping organizations prevent fraudulent activities Requires presenting certain forms of evidence such as a passport, driver's license, or Social Security number (SSN) for identification Identity and Access Provisioning Process Provisioning Create new accounts Assign appropriate rights and privileges Revocation Disable accounts immediately when employees depart Set expiry dates for temporary accounts Delete expired accounts according to the organization's policy Review Check accounts periodically Disable inactive accounts Monitor for excessive or escalating privileges Account Access Review Reviews access rights periodically for all employees and vendors to identify excessive or escalating privileges Creates service accounts specifically for use by services, applications, and virtual machines Grants elevated privileges and access to businesscritical applications and data to service accounts Dictates policies to determine when accounts should be reviewed, deactivated, or deleted Conducts regular reviews or audits of service accounts to identify unusual behaviors that may indicate a breach or misuse Privileged Accounts Defines accounts with more privileges than normal user accounts Includes highly privileged accounts like administrator (Windows) or root (Unix/Linux) Allows normal users to temporarily gain root privileges using the sudo command (Unix/Linux) Creates accounts specifically for services, applications, and virtual machines Assigns full administrative privileges without considering the principle of least privilege, posing a security risk if compromised Privilege Escalation Occurs when a malicious user gains higher levels of permissions, access, or privileges than they have been assigned Happens due to administrative oversight, identity theft, or credential compromise Horizontal Privilege Escalation Occurs when an attacker gains rights and privileges of another user with similar privileges Administrator Attacker Is referred to as account takeover User Vertical Privilege Escalation Occurs when an attacker gains access to an account and tries to elevate its privileges Administrator Is also known as a privilege elevation attack, moving from low to high privileged access Countermeasures Use multi factor authentication Minimize the number and scope of the privileged accounts Follow the principle of least privilege Countermeasures Enables continuous monitoring of privileged accounts and keeps detailed logs of activities Analyzes privileged accounts to identify and address risks, threats, sources, and attacker intents Prevents sharing of privileged accounts and credentials Active Directory Active Directory (AD) is a proprietary directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks.
Active Directory Includes Active Directory in Windows Server operating systems, enabling administrators to manage permissions and access to resources Uses Microsoft's version of Kerberos, DNS, and Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) versions 2 and 3 Domain Services Runs the Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) Authenticates users, verifies credentials, and defines access rights Holds information about domain members, such as devices and users Lightweight Directory Access Protocol Based on the ITU X.500's Directory Access Protocol standard, the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is an open, vendor neutral, and industrystandard directory service.
The LDAP directory service operates on a client server model.
Lightweight Directory Access Protocol LDAP is used to access and manage distributed directory information services over an Internet Protocol (IP) network.
Is often used for authentication and storing information about users, groups, and applications LDAP Directory Structure The root entry in an LDAP directory is the highest item in a directory, which is a hierarchical tree structure.
The organization that owns the directory is usually represented by the root entry.
Interoperability Interoperability is the ability of different platforms, systems, or technologies to work together seamlessly or exchange and use information in a compatible and effective manner.
Within IAM, this specifically refers to systems, and not all systems will interoperate in this manner.
For instance, web applications that normally use OAuth cannot use Kerberos authentication.
Attestation Attestation is the process of verifying and confirming that access privileges assigned to users are accurate, complete, and aligned with their current roles and responsibilities.
It is the process of reviewing and confirming that users have the right access to perform their jobs securely while minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.
Attestation Methods Certificates Certificates, issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs), function as digital passports, confirming the legitimacy of entities and ensuring secure, encrypted communication across networks.
Tokens Tokens, frequently employed in OAuth, provide a secure means to confirm user identity and privileges, granting controlled access to valuable resources.
Attestation Methods Federation Federation serves as a mechanism to establish cross domain trust, enabling seamless resource sharing among diverse organizations, confirming user identities, and facilitating SSO capabilities.
Microsoft active directory Microsoft AD is a powerful directory service tailored for Windows domain networks.
It confirms attestation by managing user data, safeguarding valuable resources, and enforcing policies to uphold the integrity and security of networked environments.
Access Control Best practices Limits and monitors the use of administrator and other powerful accounts Suspends or delays access capability after a specific number of unsuccessful logon attempts Removes obsolete user accounts as soon as users leave the company Enforces strict access criteria Enforces need to know and least privilege practices Suspends inactive accounts after 30 to 60 days Disables unnecessary system features, services, and ports Replaces default password settings on accounts Enforces strong password requirements Ensures that if the same message is encrypted with the same key and sent twice, its ciphertext is the same Denies access to systems for undefined users or anonymous accounts Removes redundant IDs, accounts, and role based accounts from resource access lists Installing Active Directory and Creating a User Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a system administrator, you are tasked with installing Active Directory on a Windows Server and creating a user account to manage organizational resources.
The objective is to establish a centralized directory service that facilitates user and resource management, enhances security, and streamlines administrative tasks within the organization.
This setup will enable secure access control and efficient management of networked resources and user permissions.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 05_Installing_Active_Directory_and_Creating_a_User Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) 2.
Create a user under the active directory Configuring Logon Hours in Active Directory Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As an IT administrator, you are tasked with creating a step by step guide for configuring logon hours in Active Directory.
The purpose is to enhance security and access control by implementing Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC).
This guide will help ensure that users can only access network resources during authorized hours, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access and improving overall security management.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 06_Configuring_Logon_Hours_in_Active_Directory Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Open a Virtual Machine using the Remote Desktop Connection 2.
Open Active Directory Users and Computers 3.
Create and Locate the User Account 4.
Open User Properties and Set Logon Hours 5.
Configure Logon Hours 6.
Apply and Close Importance of Automation and Orchestration Related to Secure Operations Automation and Scripting Automation Application of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention Involves technologies from simple scripts to complex software programs and robotic systems Scripting Specific type of automation using programming languages Automates tasks within a computer operating system or application Scripts are sets of instructions executed step by step by the computer Use Cases of Automations User provisioning Resource provisioning Ensures user accounts are created, configured, and granted access rights swiftly and accurately Allows allocation and deallocation of resources such as virtual machines, storage, and network resources as needed Ticket creation Enabling/Disabling services and access Enhances IT support and incident response through automated ticket creation and tracking Automates the enabling or disabling of services and access within systems Guard rail Establishes guard rails by enforcing predefined policies and configurations Ensures systems and resources operate within specified parameters to reduce misconfigurations Security groups Enables creation and management of security groups Defines who can access specific resources or services Escalation Integration and APIs Triggers predefined escalation procedures in critical incidents Links together tools and systems for streamlined automation and complex process management Ensures high priority calls are raised and dealt with immediately Advantages of Automation Efficiency/Time saving Enforce baseline Saves time and provides efficiency Ensures systems consistently adhere to predefined baselines and configurations Allows time to be used in other productive work Standard infrastructure configurations Scaling in a secure manner Assists in standardizing infrastructure configurations (e.g., firewalls, server environments) Enables seamless scaling of resources while maintaining security Reaction time Workforce multiplier Ensures threat detection and response are lightningfast Automates complex, multistep processes Identifies, assesses, and acts upon security incidents in real time, reducing potential damage Reduces the time workers spend on boring tasks Other Considerations for Automation Complexity Costs Streamlines operations but adds management complexity Involves upfront costs for implementing Requires carefully designed and maintained workflows Benefits include efficiency gains and Becomes more intricate as security needs evolve Crucial to evaluate long term cost automation tools and training improved security benefit analysis for determining what should be automated and how Other Considerations for Automation Single point of failure Relying on a single automation system for critical security functions creates a single point of failure Diversifying automation reduces operational risks Ongoing supportability Needing ongoing support, maintenance, and updates prevents outdated or vulnerable systems Assessing sustainability and alignment with a long term security strategy maintains effectiveness Incident Response Activities Incident Management Event Any observable occurrence in a system or a network Incident Any event that negatively affects the company and impacts its security posture Incident response A practice of detecting a problem, determining its cause, minimizing the damage it causes, resolving the problem, and documenting each step of the response for future references Incident Response Goals The goals of incident response are: Reduce the potential impact to the organization Provide management with sufficient information Deter attacks through investigation and prosecution Maintain or restore business continuity Defend against future attacks Incident Response Team An incident response team is a group of people who prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Basic checklist of an incident response team A list of outside agencies and resources to contact or report to An outlined list of roles and responsibilities A call tree to contact the defined roles and outside entities A detailed procedure to secure and preserve evidence A list of items that should be included in the report for the management and the courts A description of how different systems should be treated in a particular situation Incident Management: Planning and Preparation Incident response policy and procedures Collection of threat and vulnerability intelligence 1 7 Incident response plan tests and team drills Incident response handling methodologies 2 3 6 5 Regular skill development, improvement, and training for information security staff Communication plan for internal and external parties 4 Call tree and notification processes for solutions, products, and support teams Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Lessons Learned Automated detection capabilities: Network based and host based Intrusion Detection Systems (IDPS), antivirus software, and log analyzers Manual detection: Issues reported by end users Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Lessons Learned The response process includes: Triage: Ensures that only valid alerts are escalated for further investigation.
This step helps in identifying and discarding false positives Severity assessment: Gathers information to evaluate the severity and set priorities for incident handling Categorization: Classifies incidents by their severity, potential risk, source, rate of growth, and potential for containment Root cause analysis: Focuses on identifying the underlying cause of the incident Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Objectives of mitigation include: Asset prioritization: Focuses first on critical assets, followed by less critical ones Containment and isolation: Limits exposure to prevent further damage Forensic analysis: Ensures forensic samples are taken before mitigation efforts begin Lessons Learned Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Lessons Learned Effective reporting should include: Current Status: Updates on the incident's progress (new, in progress, under investigation, or resolved) Summary: Concise overview of the incident Detailed Documentation: Actions performed, chain of custody (if applicable), and impact assessment Evidence: Comprehensive list of evidence gathered Communications: Remarks from incident handlers Next Steps: Planned actions following the incident report Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Lessons Learned The recovery process aims to restore systems to operational status and includes: Hardware repair/replacement: Addressing physical and operational damage to hardware System software reinstallation: Reinstalling or reconfiguring operating systems and applications Data restoration: Recovering data from backup media to ensure no information loss Program cleanup: Removing any unwanted programs and data introduced during the incident Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Key aspects of remediation include: System repair: Fixes to affected systems and software Communication: Updates and instructions to all affected parties Analysis: Confirming that the incident is fully contained and unlikely to reoccur Preventive measures: Adjusting policies and protections to prevent future incidents Lessons Learned Incident Response Life Cycle Detection Response Mitigation Reporting Recovery Remediation Lessons Learned Important considerations for lessons learned include: Review meetings: Regularly scheduled to discuss the handling and outcome of incidents.
Documentation: Detailed follow up reports that serve as references for future incident response efforts.
Continuous improvement: Using insights gained to enhance the incident response plan.
Incident Response Training Training programs are integral to the Business Continuity Plan (BCP) and Disaster Recovery (DR), ensuring that all employees are prepared for incident response activities.
Trainings ensure employees: Emergency procedures: Employees know the course of action in an emergency.
Business continuity engagement: Employees engage in business continuity through periodic awareness programs.
First aid and CPR: Basic first aid and CPR training is provided.
Types of Security Training Various trainings conducted include: Security awareness training: Educates on the latest cyber threats and prevention methods.
Call tree training: Ensures employees understand security policies and incident response actions align with organizational policies.
Incident Handling and Simulation Training Focused training includes: Incident handling: Comprehensive training from incident onset to resolution Simulation and drills: Provides practical experience through controlled simulations and drills Communication and Legal Training Advanced training sessions cover: Communication skills: Focuses on practical skills for interacting with stakeholders and collaboration within teams.
Legal and regulatory compliance: Includes training on the legal and regulatory aspects of incident management.
Incident Response Testing Checklist walkthroughs Tabletop exercises A basic review to ensure all steps in the plan are documented and accounted for Team members gather around a table to discuss their roles and responses to a simulated incident scenario Parallel simulations Full interrupt simulations Conducted alongside normal operations, allowing the team to test their response without impacting real systems These halt normal operations to simulate a real world incident scenario.
Root Cause Analysis Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a problem solving technique designed to identify the underlying causes of problems rather than just addressing the symptoms.
Key aspects of RCA include: Identifying underlying causes: Focuses on discovering the fundamental issues that lead to problems Preventing recurrence: Aims to prevent future issues by systematically addressing the root causes Root Cause Analysis Exploring the significance of root cause analysis includes: Systematic process: Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a systematic approach to identifying the underlying causes of an incident.
Strategic decisions: By understanding these causes, organizations can make informed decisions to strengthen their systems and enhance resilience.
Continuous improvement: RCA provides deep insights into problems, promoting improvements in future incident responses.
Diamond Analysis of Intrusion The Diamond Model is a framework used in cybersecurity to analyze and investigate cyberattacks.
The model examines intrusions through four interconnected facets include Adversary Infrastructure Capabilities Victim Diamond Analysis Adversaries Capabilities This facet represents the attacker or threat actor responsible for the intrusion.
Analysts aim to understand the motivations, resources, capabilities, and affiliations of the adversary.
This area explores the technical skills and tools used by the adversary to exploit vulnerabilities and achieve their objectives.
Parallel simulations Full interrupt simulations This refers to the methods and pathways by which the attacker reaches the victim.
This could include channels like USB, email, IP address, or remote access.
These halt normal operations to simulate a real world incident scenario.
MITRE ATT&CK Framework It is a globally recognized resource for understanding cyber adversaries' tactics and techniques.
It serves as a comprehensive knowledge base of attacker behavior, allowing defenders to proactively anticipate and thwart cyber threats.
This framework empowers cybersecurity professionals with crucial insights to address and mitigate evolving threats.
MITRE ATT&CK MITRE Attack MITRE ATT&CK Adversarial: Looks at the behavior of potential groups and provides information about the adversaries and the group to which they belong Tactics: Represents the different stages of an attack, such as reconnaissance, initial access, execution, persistence, privilege escalation, and exfiltration Techniques: Specifies the methods attackers use within each tactic.
For instance, social engineering, phishing emails, and exploiting vulnerabilities are all techniques used for initial access Common knowledge: This is the documentation relating to the attackers' tactics and techniques made publicly available online Cyber Kill Chain The cyber kill chain is a foundational cybersecurity concept derived from the military kill chain.
It outlines the various stages a cyber attacker typically follows to infiltrate a system and achieve their goals.
Understanding these stages empowers security teams to: Implement preventative measures and disruption strategies at each point Identify what attackers need to accomplish to succeed, aiding defense planning Provide a structured view of an attack, enhancing visibility and analyst understanding Cyber Kill Chain Reconnaissance Installation Weaponization Command and control Exploitation Delivery Action on objectives Threat Hunting Threat hunting involves: Planning, collecting, processing, analyzing, and disseminating information that poses a threat to an organization.
This knowledge is then applied to mitigate the threat.
The value of threat hunting includes: Detecting threats early and minimizing potential damage Enhancing adaptability by allowing security measures to quickly adjust to new types of attacks Benefits of threat hunting: Processing threat data to better understand attackers Responding faster to incidents Proactively getting ahead of the attacker's next move Digital Forensics Digital Forensics Digital Forensics Digital forensics, sometimes known as digital forensic science, is a branch of forensic science that involves the recovery and investigation of material found in digital devices, often in relation to cyber crimes.
The goal of digital forensics includes: Examining digital media in a forensically sound manner Identifying, preserving, recovering, analyzing, and presenting facts and opinions about the digital information Forensic Process Analysis of evidence Identify tools and techniques to be used Process data Interpret the results of the analysis Identify the sources of digital evidence Preserve digital evidence Evidence acquisition Stage 4 Stage 3 Identify the purpose of the investigation Identify the resources required Stage 2 Stage 1 Investigation preparation Report findings Present findings Dissemination of results Forensic Investigation Guidelines Best practices according to Forensic Australian Computer Emergency Response Team include: Minimize handling or corruption of the original data Account for any changes and keep detailed logs of your actions Comply with the five rules of evidence Do not exceed knowledge and take the aid of experts and specialists if required Follow local security policies and obtain written permission Capture an accurate image of the system as possible Be prepared to testify Ensure actions are repeatable Work fast and proceed from volatile to persistent evidence Do not run any programs on the affected system Source: https://www.auscert.org.au/publications/2017 09 11 collecting electronic evidence after sy Forensic Disk Controller or Write Blocker Forensic disk controller A forensic disk controller or a hardware write block device is a specialized type of computer hard disk controller designed for gaining read only access to computer hard drives without risking damage to the drive's contents.
The device is called a forensic disk controller because its most common application is in investigations where a computer hard drive may contain evidence.
Functions of a forensic disk controller A hardware write block (HWB) device will not transmit a command to a protected storage device that modifies the data on the storage device.
An HWB device will return the data requested by a read operation.
An HWB device will return without modification any access significant information requested from the drive.
Any error condition reported by the storage device to the HWB device will be reported to the host.
Evidence The available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid Evidence, broadly construed, is anything presented in support of an assertion Digital evidence or electronic evidence is any probative information stored or transmitted in digital form that a party may use at a trial in court Evidence Evidence Evidence is relevant when: It is related to the crime It can provide information describing the crime It can provide information regarding the motives of the perpetrator It can verify what has occurred It can determine the time of occurrence of the crime Evidence Acquisition of Evidence It involves collecting data from various sources, including modern digital devices like USB flash drives and computers, as well as traditional paper based documents such as letters and bank statements.
Recording the time includes: Record time offset: Capture the regional time setting or time zone when gathering evidence from computers.
Time normalization: Convert evidence collected across multiple time zones into a common time zone (such as GMT) to create a chronological sequence.
Order of Evidence Capturing CPU cache: This fast but volatile memory is used by the CPU and can provide critical insights.
Random Access Memory(RAM): Volatile memory running applications holds valuable information.
Swap/Page file/Virtual memory: Used when RAM is exhausted, these are areas of a hard drive used instead of RAM, but much slower.
Hard drive: Data at rest is the least volatile and is captured after volatile memory.
This is where data is saved to the hard drive.
Admissible Evidence There are three basic requirements for evidence to be introduced in a court of law.
To be considered admissible evidence, it must meet all three of these requirements, as determined by the judge prior to being discussed in an open court: Relevant: The evidence must be relevant to determining a fact Material: Competent: The fact that the evidence seeks to determine must be material, that is, related to the case The evidence must be competent, which means it must have been obtained legally.
Evidence resulting from an illegal search would be inadmissible because it is not competent Types of Evidence Testimonial evidence It consists of the testimony of a witness, either verbal testimony in court or written testimony in a recorded deposition.
Testimonial evidence must not be hearsay evidence.
Hearsay evidence It is third party information with hardly any proof of reliability or accuracy.
It is secondhand evidence in the form of oral or written statements.
Real evidence It consists of physical items that may be brought into a court of law.
In common criminal proceedings, this may include items such as a murder weapon, clothing, or other physical objects.
Types of Evidence Documentary evidence Conclusive evidence It includes any written items brought into court to prove a fact at hand.
This type of evidence must be authenticated, and original documents need to be produced.
It is irrefutable and cannot be contradicted, overriding all other evidence.
Best evidence It is the original or primary evidence, providing the most reliability.
An example would be a signed contract.
Chain of Custody In legal context, it refers to the chronological documentation or paper trail that records the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence.
Chain of custody shows how the evidence was collected, analyzed, transported, and preserved to be presented in court.
Chain of Custody Major components of the Chain of Custody Location of evidence when it was obtained Time at which evidence was obtained Identification of individual(s) who discovered evidence Identification of individual(s) who secured evidence Identification of individual(s) who controlled evidence and maintained possession of that evidence Legal Hold It is also known as a litigation hold, is a process used to preserve electronically stored information (ESI) and physical documents that might be relevant in a potential lawsuit or investigation.
The primary purpose of a legal hold is to prevent spoliation of evidence, which is the destruction, alteration, or loss of evidence that could be used in legal proceedings.
A legal hold can be triggered by a court order or by an organization's anticipation of litigation.
Legal holds apply to all potentially relevant electronic and physical information.
This includes emails, documents, spreadsheets, voicemail recordings, chat logs, and social media posts.
E Discovery Electronic discovery, also called ediscovery, refers to any process in which electronic data is sought, located, secured, and searched with the intent of using it as evidence in a civil or criminal legal case.
This discovery process applies to both paper records and electronic records.
Electronic discovery process facilitates the processing of electronic information for disclosure.
Use of Data Sources to Support Investigations What Are Logs?
In IT, an event log is a basic resource that provides information about network traffic, system traffic, and other conditions.
An event log stores this data for retrieval by security professionals or automated security systems to help IT administrators manage various aspects such as security, performance, and transparency.
Besides records related to computer security, logs are generated from many other sources such as antivirus software, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and prevention systems.
Log Management and Review Log management involves the collective processes and policies used to administer and facilitate the generation, transmission, analysis, storage, archiving, and disposal of the large volumes of log data created within an information system.
System logs are examined to detect security events or verify effectiveness of security controls.
A key requirement for an effective log review is time synchronization across all log sources.
NTP is the protocol for time synchronization (UDP 123).
Log Management Phases Log management involves the following steps: Log generation Log transmission Generated from different devices and systems Transmitted to a separate storage or log server Log storage Log analysis Log disposal Stored securely in a centralized log server Analyzed to detect incidents or for forensics purpose Disposed securely after completing the life cycle Log Tampering Prevention It is vital to maintain the integrity of log data.
Here are the methods to prevent it from being tampered: Remote logging Placing a log file into another device will protect it from being tampered with in a compromised system Simplex communication Using one way communication between the reporting devices and the central log repository This is accomplished by severing the receive pairs on an Ethernet cable.
Replication Make multiple copies and keep them in different locations Write once media Use write once media to prevent unauthorized modifications to log files Cryptographic hash A powerful technique for ensuring unauthorized modifications are easily noticed.
Log Management: Advantages and Challenges Advantages Challenges Ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of logs Managing large quantities of logs from various sources Forensic investigations Auditing Identifying security incidents, fraud, and operational issues Establishing baselines Addressing discrepancies in log content, timestamps, and formats Log Management: Best Practices Establish log management policies and procedures Prioritize requirements for log management process Define roles and responsibilities Create and maintain log management infrastructure Support the staff responsible for log management Different Types of Logs Firewall logs Application logs Application logs include the events happening within the software systems.
Firewall logs hold information about incoming and outgoing traffic, including the source and destination IP addresses, ports, and protocols.
They capture details about user interactions, errors, and events within applications.
These logs allow investigators to identify unauthorized access attempts, track potential intrusions, and recognize patterns of malicious activity.
When investigating issues or breaches related to a specific application, these logs provide critical context that helps analysts pinpoint the root cause of the problem and understand user behavior.
Different Types of Logs Endpoint logs Endpoints, such as computers and mobile devices, generate logs documenting user activities, system changes, and security events.
These logs are invaluable when investigating incidents involving compromised devices or suspicious user behavior.
The domain name system (DNS) log file shows every website the user visits, making it particularly useful when reviewing the activity of an end user who visited malicious sites.
OS specific security logs Operating systems (like Windows, macOS, or Linux) maintain security logs that record system events and security related activities.
These logs provide detailed information about the health and security of the OS, invaluable in the detection of anomalies, vulnerabilities, or unauthorized access.
Different Types of Logs IDS/IPS logs IDS/IPS logs record data on network traffic and patterns.
By analyzing these logs, investigators can identify and respond to potential threats in real time, safeguarding the network from intruders and suspicious activities.
Network logs Network logs record data flow across a networks, including connections, data transfers, and errors.
These logs are instrumental in identifying network breaches, tracking data leaks, and understanding the overall health and performance of network infrastructure.
Different Types of Logs DNS log files Metadata A DNS log file records websites and devices that have been visited in addition to failed DNS resolutions.
Metadata refers to information about data, such as file attributes, access times, user interactions, and, for photos, the location of the picture.
These are all warning signs that may indicate intrusion attempts on the system.
Metadata enhances the investigative process by revealing the who, what, when, and where behind digital activities.
Web server log files The web server log file captures the connections to the web server itself.
It lists the visitors source IP addresses, status codes, and web pages or web applications visited.
Types of Windows Logs Event logs Application logs These logs are the heartbeat of the Windows system, recording events such as system startups, shutdowns, application errors, and security related incidents.
Event Viewer, a built in tool, provides access to this data.
These logs store information about software programs.
Developers often use these logs to diagnose issues, but they can also be invaluable for troubleshooting applicationspecific problems.
Security logs These logs store data such as failed login attempts, access control changes, and other security events that may provide information on an attempted security breach Types of Windows Logs System logs System logs document system level events and errors.
They are indispensable for identifying and addressing hardware and driver issues.
Setup logs When you install or upgrade software or hardware components, setup logs record the process.
These logs can be handy when troubleshooting installation problems.
Data Sources Data sources are the various tools and methods used to collect, analyze, and present information that supports an investigation.
These sources can range from vulnerability scans that identify weak points in a network to dashboards that provide real time analytics.
Understanding how to leverage these data sources effectively is crucial in a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.
Data Sources Vulnerability scans Automated reports Dashboards Data Sources: Vulnerability Scans Vulnerability scans are systematic examinations of networks, systems, or applications to identify and evaluate security weaknesses or flaws that attackers could exploit.
These scans utilize specialized software tools to probe systems for known vulnerabilities, such as unpatched software, insecure configurations, and unprotected systems.
It provide insights into potential security gaps that require remediation to strengthen the overall security posture.
Data Sources: Automated Reports Automated reports serve as a networks eyes and ears, offering a synthesized view of various security metrics and events.
Automated reports like these enable you to spot irregularities and take corrective action swiftly, thereby minimizing the risk and impact of security incidents Security information and event management (SIEM) systems, such as Splunk or IBM Qradar, often generate these reports.
Data Sources: Dashboards A dashboard is a user interface that organizes and presents information in an easy to read format, often using graphs, charts, and gauges.
The centralized display aggregates data from multiple sources, providing a real time overview of an organizations network and security status.
Dashboards allow for prompt responses to threats and efficient monitoring of system health and performance.
They are pivotal in managing the complex flow of information in cybersecurity operations.
Packet Captures Packets are the data that runs up and down our network.
By capturing packets, cybersecurity administrators can analyze what is happening on the organizations network.
The tools used can be called packet sniffers or protocol analyzers, with common examples being Wireshark or the Linux based Tcpdump.
A trace can be conducted by capturing packets, i.e., saving the data in a packet capture (PCAP) form for later analysis.
Use Cases of Packet Captures Forensics and incident response: PCAPs can be invaluable for forensic analysis of security incidents because they allow investigators to reconstruct events and identify the source of an attack.
Deep analysis: PCAPs provide highly detailed and specific information about network traffic, which can be used to analyze network behavior in depth.
Baseline creation: It involves establishing a record of normal network traffic patterns.
Network administrators can then use this baseline as a reference to compare against current traffic on their network.
Using Event Viewer to Implement Logging and Forensic Analysis Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a network administrator, you are tasked with implementing logging and forensic analysis using Event Viewer.
The objective is to maintain a secure and well monitored network environment by tracking system events, user activities, and potential security incidents.
This implementation aims to enhance the organization's ability to detect, investigate, and respond to unauthorized activities and security breaches effectively.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 07_Using_Event_Viewer_to_Implement_Logging_and_Forensic_Analysis Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Use Event Viewer to view successful and failed login 2.
Set up a group policy to log the failed login attempts 3.
Create a user and add it to the administrator group 4.
View the port status and name resolution using netstat and nslookup Implementing encryption solutions for data at rest using AESCrypt Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a security engineer, you are tasked with implementing encryption solutions for data at rest using AESCrypt.
The objective is to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, ensuring its confidentiality, integrity, and security during storage and transmission.
This implementation aims to safeguard data against potential breaches and comply with security best practices and regulatory requirements.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 08_Implementing_encryption_solutions_for_data_at_rest_using Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install AESCrypt 2.
Create a text file and encrypt it using AESCrypt Using ROHOS Disk Encryption Duration: 10 Min.
Problem Statement: As a cybersecurity specialist, you are tasked with demonstrating the process of using ROHOS Disk Encryption to create and manage encrypted virtual drives.
The goal is to ensure the protection of sensitive data stored on local systems and portable devices.
This involves setting up secure encrypted storage that guards against unauthorized access and data breaches, thereby maintaining data confidentiality and security.
Note: Refer to the demo document for detailed steps: 09_Using_ROHOS_Disk_Encryption Assisted Practice: Guidelines Steps to be followed are: 1.
Install ROHOS disk encryption software 2.
Utilize ROHOS disk encryption software Key Takeaways Hardening techniques are important within organizations for the security of devices within the organization.
Lifecycle management plays an important role in the security of assets in the organization.
Security testing is essential for the timely discovery of vulnerabilities, management, and remediation.
Network security devices play an instrumental role in establishing and managing the security of the enterprise.
Identity and access management is essential for ensuring that the right people access the right resources in the right manner at the right time.
Key Takeaways Automation is essential for the efficient and timely delivery of services in an optimum manner.
Incident management plays an instrumental role in handling incidents on time, lessening their impact, and eradicating the incidents.
Digital forensics, chain of custody, and e discovery are essential for investigation and forensics.
Mitre framework and cyber kill chain are essential methodologies and frameworks to handle attacks and incidents.
Log management and types of logs play an important role in the timely detection of attacks and incidents, and they are important in operations.
CompTIA Security + Domain 05: Security Program Management and Oversight Learning Objectives By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Implement the elements of effective security governance to enhance organizational security protocols Apply elements of the Risk Management Process to mitigate potential risks effectively Execute the processes associated with third party risk assessment and management to ensure comprehensive security coverage Integrate the importance of effective security compliance to maintain regulatory standards Utilize types and purposes of audits and assessments to improve overall security measures Security Policy, Standards, Procedures, and Guidelines Security Management Plan It is a set of structured Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specifically designed to help you achieve these goals.
It provides guidelines, regulations, standards, options and hierarchical structure, as well as policies, procedures and protocols (PPPs).
Security Plan Components 1.
Security policies 2.
Standards 3.
Guidelines 4.
Procedures 5.
Baselines 6.
Org Structure Top Management is responsible for policies, mid level management is responsible for developing standards, guidelines and procedure in alignment with security policies.
Approaches to Security Plan Top Down Approach Bottom up Approach Management understands the security and Initiates the policy which is then systematically percolated down to operations staff.
In this approach, operational staff initiate the process then propagate their findings upward to management as proposed policy recommendations.
Top level managers are the ones responsible for initiating, creating, and implementing your data protection strategy, including policy creation, procedural instructions, and escalation plans This approach has at times sparked a fiasco due to management not fully aware of things.
This is more successful as compared to bottom up approach The main advantage of a bottom up approach to infosec is that you're using a person or team's experience and expertise to handle intricate security concerns Security Management Plan Types Strategic plan Long term plan Defines with goals of the entire organization with a holistic approach in mind Effective for at least five years and reviewed annually Tactical plan Tactics are means needed to activate a strategy.
A mid term plan developed to provide more detailed goals Typically spans one to two year and is technology oriented Ex: Project plans, acquisition plan, budget plan, hiring plan Operational plan Short term plan with specific results expected from departments and workgroups.
Highly detailed plan Must be updated often (monthly, quarterly) Example: resource allotment, budgetary allocation, and training plans Senior Management Middle Management Implementation Team Different Types of Policies Different Types of Policies Information security policy Disaster recover policy Acceptable use policy Software development lifecycle policy Business continuity policy Incident response policy Change management policy Information Security Policy (ISP) It is a document that outlines an organization's plan for protecting its information assets.
It also covers various topics, from data classification and encryption to network security protocols.
Information security policies outline the guidelines and procedures for protecting the organizations data and technology assets.
Examples of Information Security Policy Policy Name Description Example Requirements Data classification policy Defines how data is categorized based on sensitivity.
All sensitive customer data must be labeled confidential and encrypted.
Access control policy Specifies who can access what resources and under what conditions.
Two factor authentication is required for accessing any financial systems.
Network security policy Outlines the configurations and security measures for network devices and infrastructure.
Firewalls must be configured to block all incoming traffic that is not explicitly required for business.
Endpoint security policy Sets the security standards for individual devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets.
All endpoints must have updated antivirus software installed.
Encryption policy Details the methods and protocols for encrypting data at rest, in transit, and during processing.
AES 256 encryption must be used for all data at rest.
Examples of Information Security Policy Policy Name Description Example Requirements Incident response policy Describes the steps to take when a security incident occurs.
Incidents must be reported to the security team within 30 minutes of discovery.
Remote work policy Sets the rules for employees who work outside the office.
VPNs must be used when accessing company resources remotely.
Password policy Specifies the requirements for creating, managing, and storing passwords.
Passwords must be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Software update policy Governs how software updates and patches are managed.
Critical security patches must be applied within 48 hours of release.
Compliance policy Ensures that the organization meets all legal and regulatory requirements.
Regular audits must be conducted to ensure compliance with GDPR.
Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) It defines the rules restricting how a computer, network, or other system may be used.
It states what users are and are not allowed to do with an organization's technology infrastructure.
Business Continuity Policy (BCP) It is the foundation for an organization's resilience in disruptions.
It outlines the framework for ensuring critical business functions can continue operating even after a disaster or incident.
Disaster Recovery Policy (DRP) It is a subset of a business continuity plan focusing on restoring IT infrastructure and operations after a crisis.
It details procedures for data recovery, system restoration, and other necessary technical steps to resume normal operations.
Incident Response Policy (IRP) This specifies the procedures to follow in the event of a cybersecurity incident and include steps for eradication and containment.
It outlines steps for identifying, reporting, and mitigating security breaches.
Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Policy This policy governs the entire software development process, from inception to decommissioning.
It includes guidelines for requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, deployment, maintenance, and eventual software retirement.
Change Management Policy (CMP) A change management policy guides how changes to IT systems and processes are proposed, reviewed, and implemented to minimize disruptions and reduce risks.
It requires formal approval and postimplementation monitoring to ensure system stability and security.
These policies facilitate the adoption of new technologies, processes, or organizational changes, while ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
Standards Standards Standards are established requirements or rules that describe the specific methods and practices to be followed.
The characteristics of security standards are: Provides detailed guidance beyond policies, explaining how to implement high level guidelines operationally Ensures consistent and aligned security practices with industry best practices and regulatory requirements Requires periodic review and modification or when related policies change Supports security policies and organizational objectives Password Standard Password standards are crucial for an organization's access control strategy.
They provide guidelines for creating, managing, and safeguarding passwords to prevent unauthorized access.
These standards ensure consistency and interoperability in password management across digital systems.
Attributes of Password Standards Minimum length: CSPs must ensure passwords are a minimum of 12 characters long to enhance security.
Complexity: Passwords must include a mix of characters (e.g., letters, numbers, symbols) to resist attacks.
Expiration: Passwords must be changed at regular intervals.
However, NIST SP 800 63B advises against arbitrary periodic changes unless there is a user request or evidence of a breach.
History: To avoid the reuse of potentially compromised credentials, users should not reuse their last 10 passwords.
Attributes of Password Standards Lockout policy: Following a series of unsuccessful login attempts, accounts should be temporarily locked to prevent brute force attacks.
Two factor authentication: A second verification method should be used along with the password for enhanced security.
Salting: When storing passwords using cryptographic hashes, adding a unique salt to each password prevents attackers from using precomputed tables (rainbow tables) to crack the hashes.
Secure storage: It's best to use a secure password manager to store and manage passwords and avoid insecure practices like writing them down.
Access Control Standard Defines who can access specific resources within an organization's digital ecosystem Ensures that only authorized individuals can access specific resources, maintaining data security Limits the potential for insider and external threats by implementing the principle of least privilege, reducing the attack surface Attributes of Access Control Least privilege: Grants users access to only the data, resources, and applications required for their job function User identity: Uses methods of identification such as usernames, smart cards, or biometrics, based on an organizations preference Multifactor authentication: Requires more than one form of authentication for each access request Privilege access management: Controls administrative accounts within a domain to prevent privilege escalation and enhance security Attributes of Access Control Standards Audit trail: Lists every event that happens on a server and identifies who performed the action and when it occurred Authentication protocol: Includes SSH keys for Linux, Kerberos in Microsoft environments, OAuth for internet based authentication, and SAML for third party authentication Access control types: Defines how accesses are assigned to subjects or users, such as role based access control and mandatory access control Conditional access control: Provides a cloud based policy that regulates user access to resources, enhancing security and ensuring compliance Physical Security Standard Physical security standards protect an organization's tangible assets such as buildings, hardware, and personnel.
They are crucial because robust cybersecurity can be compromised by physical access breaches.
Physical security includes secure building access, surveillance systems, and safeguarding hardware.
Effective governance integrates physical security measures into the overall security strategy to prevent severe repercussions of breaches.
Attributes of Physical Security Standard Facility access: Specifies who can enter the premises and specific areas using access cards, biometric scans, or staffed security desks Visitor management: Details procedures for admitting and tracking visitors, such as requiring them to sign in and be escorted by an employee Surveillance: Monitors and records activity using surveillance equipment, including device placement and footage storage and review Equipment security: Secures servers, workstations, and other hardware against theft or tampering Attributes of Physical Access Control Standard Environmental control: Installs fire suppression, climate control, and entry alarms to protect hardware and data from environmental risks Emergency response: Implements guidelines for responding to various emergencies, such as fires, floods, or active shooter situations Guards: Monitors and safeguards physical premises with trained personnel, providing a visible deterrent and responding to security incidents Security policies: Provides clear guidelines for staff on password management, visitor access, and reporting suspicious activity Encryption Standard Ensures data confidentiality and integrity within an organization, both in transit and at rest Protects against unauthorized access and data breaches, strengthening overall security Attributes of Encryption Standard Data classification: Specifies data requiring high level encryption, such as PII, financial records, and proprietary research Encryption algorithms: Approves algorithms like AES and RSA for their proven security and efficiency Key management: Includes guidelines for securely managing cryptographic keys using HSMs or key management services Attributes of Encryption Standard Data in transit: Uses protocols like HTTPS and TLS to secure data moving across networks Data at rest: Employs encryption solutions like BitLocker and FileVault for data stored on hard drives, databases, and cloud storage Compliance and auditing: Conducts regular reviews and audits to ensure encryption practices meet standards like GDPR and HIPAA Procedures Procedures Procedures are a set of documented steps or guidelines designed to standardize and streamline processes within an organization.
The characteristics of security procedures are: Provides clarity and consistency in how tasks are performed, decisions are made, and changes are implemented Serves as a roadmap for day to day operations, ensuring that all activities align with the organizations security objectives Requires frequent review and modification based on technological changes Is written in a step by step format and may include flowcharts or diagrams for clarity Some Common Procedures Change management procedures Playbooks Outlines the steps and protocols for initiating, evaluating, implementing, and monitoring changes within an organization Serves as a subset of procedures often used in specific contexts such as sales, marketing, disaster recovery, or incident response Mitigates risks associated with system alterations, software updates, and new technology implementation Ensures proper introduction, control, and coordination of changes Provides comprehensive guides that outline actions, strategies, and contingencies for various scenarios Equips teams with predefined responses to complex situations to ensure consistency and effective decision making Some Common Procedures Onboarding Offboarding Involves integrating new employees into an organization's culture and workflows Conducts offboarding procedures to ensure a dignified exit when someone leaves the company Includes user training, meetings, and providing necessary resources such as phones and laptops Aims to improve job performance and satisfaction Includes tasks such as returning equipment, revoking access, and conducting exit interviews to protect data and maintain security Carries out these procedures when a person changes roles or leaves the organization Guidelines Guideline A guideline is a principle or instruction that helps people decide what to do or how to act in a particular situation.
The characteristics of security guidelines are: Are discretionary in nature Provide a suggested course of action while allowing flexibility based on specific circumstances Must be reviewed periodically or as needed per requirements Must support security policies and organizational objectives Examples of Guidelines Email security guideline: Cautions regarding phishing scams, avoids suspicious links or attachments, and reports potential phishing attempts or suspicious emails Password guidelines: Creates strong passwords, uses password managers, and avoids password sharing Software updates: Updates software and operating systems regularly with the latest security patches Policy, Standard, Procedure, and Guideline Discretionary Baselines Provides uniform methods for implementing safety measures Guideline Contains additional suggestions and recommendations in the guideline Procedure Mandatory Standard Policy Offers step by step instructions for performing tasks in the procedure Specifies mandatory configurations in the standard States the reasons for specific actions within a company in the policy Policy, Standard, Procedure, and Guideline Policies Standards Procedures Guidelines Definition A high level statement of organizational senior management intent A detailed description of how policies should be implemented.
Detailed, step by step instructions for completing a task.
Recommended best practices or advice for carrying out a task.
Scope Broad and organization wide.
Specific to a policy or area.
Specific to task or process.
Broad applicability, but not mandatory.
Enforcement Enforced through disciplinary actions or penalties Enforced through compliance audits or certification processes Enforced through training, monitoring and corrective actions Not enforced, but noncompliance may result in suboptimal outcomes Review Frequency Annually or any change in business objectives Periodic, based on policies or technology changes Frequent, based on process changes Periodic or as needed per requirements Style Formal, concise and authoritative Technical, detailed, and precise.
Step by step, with accompanying visuals or flowcharts.
Narrative, with explanations and examples Example All employees and contractors must use strong passwords and follow secure management practices to protect organizations assets and systems Passwords must be at least 12 characters long and include a combination of upper case, lower letters and special characters.
To reset a portal: 1.
Visit the password reset portal.
Enter your employee ID and email address.
Answer the security questions.
It is recommended to use a passphrase for the password.
External Factors External Considerations External factors significantly shape an organization's compliance, operations, and strategic decisions, ensuring adherence to laws, industry standards, and global trends.
These factors dictate minimum compliance requirements, including legal obligations and industry specific guidelines, influencing an organization's success and risk management in an interconnected world.
It is crucial to understand these influences for implementing effective security measures and ensuring compliance with external standards and laws.
External Factors to Be Considered Regulatory National Legal Local or regional Industry Global External Factors Regulatory Legal Governments and regulatory bodies enact laws and regulations to ensure fair practices, protect consumers, and maintain industry standards.
Legal factors cover regulatory compliance, contracts, intellectual property, liability, and litigation.
Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid legal consequences and maintain public trust.
Organizations need strong legal strategies to ensure ethical and lawful operations, including effective contract management and risk mitigation.
External Factors Industry Industries rapidly evolve due to technology, consumer trends, and competition.
Organizations must stay abreast of industry dynamics, embrace innovation, and adapt to changing market conditions to remain relevant and competitive.
National National factors involve an organizations interactions within the country of operation.
National policies, economic trends, and geopolitical stability can significantly impact business operations.
Organizations must align their strategies with national priorities.
For example, HIPAA.
External Factors Local Global Local or regional considerations involve the specific rules, regulations, or cultural norms that apply to a particular geographic area.
Organizations must address global challenges related to international trade, geopolitical intricacies, and cross border compliance requirements.
For example, a healthcare provider in the United States must comply with HIPAA, while a similar institution in Europe would need to adhere to GDPR.
A global perspective is crucial for seizing opportunities and managing risks in an increasingly interconnected business environment.
Monitoring and Revision Monitoring and Revision Monitoring and revising security measures is crucial for ensuring their effectiveness and alignment with evolving threats.
Continuous monitoring involves regularly reviewing logs and analyzing performance metrics, often facilitated by SIEM systems.
Successful monitoring and revision require a clear process, including regular review intervals, clear revision criteria, and a defined workflow for implementing changes.
This ensures that the security governance framework remains agile, allowing for quick adaptation to new challenges or opportunities Methods for Monitoring and Revision Regular audits and assessment Policy and procedure revision These help organizations maintain compliance and identify vulnerabilities, ensuring their controls align with current requirements.
Organizations must update cybersecurity policies to address new threats from compliance reports, technological advancements, changing business processes, identified risks, or evolving legal requirements.
Methods for Monitoring and Revision Legal change Cyclical and proactive approach Organizations must stay vigilant about changes in cybersecurity laws at all levels to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
Continuous monitoring and revision in cybersecurity governance are crucial, forming a loop of assessment, adaptation, and enhancement.
Proactive strategies help organizations anticipate threats, assess readiness, and adjust as needed.
Roles and Responsibilities for Systems and Data Data Owners This role is crucial and carries significant weight.
The owner is typically a senior executive or department head responsible for a specific system or dataset in the organization.
Data owners are essential for managing and securing organizational data.
They are responsible for safeguarding data, enforcing usage policies, and ensuring proper data handling.
Responsibilities of Data Owners Data classification: Involves categorizing data based on its sensitivity (confidential, public, etc.
), which helps determine the appropriate security measures Access controls: Involve defining who can access the data and determining their level of access (read only, edit, etc.
), which is crucial for data security Security policies: Include implementing and enforcing rules to protect data from unauthorized access, modification, or deletion Data accuracy: Involves ensuring that the data is accurate, complete, and up to date, which is essential for reliable decision making Responsibilities of Data Owners Data lifecycle management: Establishing processes for data creation, storage, usage, archiving, and deletion throughout its lifecycle Compliance: Understanding and adhering to relevant data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) to avoid legal issues Data sharing agreements: Defining clear terms for sharing data with third parties, if applicable Data governance: Collaborating with data governance teams to ensure data is used responsibly and ethically Data Custodian The data custodian securely stores and protects data, ensuring compliance with GDPR, ISO 27701, or HIPAA.
They implement data retention policies, handle the technical aspects of data storage and security, and are responsible for regular backups and recovery in case of system failure.
Other responsibilities include ensuring data is stored in compliance with laws, retaining records, and providing documentation for audits.
Data Stewards Data stewards are dedicated to maintaining data quality, and diligently identifying and rectifying errors and inconsistencies.
They maintain detailed records and metadata, making data understandable and accessible to users.
Beyond ensuring data quality, data stewards classify data based on sensitivity and collaborate with data custodians to implement necessary controls for compliance.
Data Controller Controllers determine how and why to process personal data, unlike owners who have overarching responsibility for systems or data.
The role of a data controller in an organizations governance structure is crucial for effective data management and protection.
They are responsible for deciding how to process personal data and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
They write policies for data collection and processing, ensuring transparency and data protection.
Data Processors The data processors handle and process the data on behalf of data controllers.
They must adhere to the predetermined instructions and policies set by the controllers and ensure the sanctity of data subject rights and regulatory compliance.
They must maintain a record and audit trail for every transaction during data processing to ensure compliance by the auditor.
Governance Governance Governance is the combination of processes and structures implemented by the board in order to inform, direct, manage and monitor the activities of the organization toward the achievement of its objectives. Institute of Internal Auditor Information Security Governance Information security (infosec) governance is the framework of policies, processes, and structures that an organization implements to manage and protect its information assets.
It is the overarching strategy that guides how seriously an organization takes information security and how it achieves its security goals.
Information Security Governance Information Security Governance is intended to guarantee the following: Reducing risks Verifying that appropriate security activities are performed Directing information security investments appropriately Enabling executive management to determine program effectiveness Type of Governance Structures Committees Boards Centralized governance Govt.
entities Decentralized governance Board The board establishes the organizations security direction and approves policies that align with business goals.
It often has the final approval for important security initiatives and spending, such as new security technology.
It is responsible for risk management at the highest level, ensuring that the organization's risk tolerance is clearly defined and adhered to.
It also has a fiduciary duty to stakeholders to protect assets and data, and to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks.
Committee A committee is a specialized body within an organization focusing on specific security or operational needs.
It deals with tactical and operational aspects of governance, unlike a board, which operates at a strategic level.
The primary role of a committee is to oversee specific security initiatives or programs.
o This includes ensuring that data handling and storage practices align with GDPR requirements.
It acts as an advisory body to the board or senior management.
It conducts in depth analyses of specific issues, such as emerging threats or regulatory changes, and presents its findings and recommendations for action.
Entities Government entities play a crucial role in governance, particularly in national security, public safety, and regulatory compliance.
They enforce standards and regulations for private organizations and handle dispute resolution and legal enforcement.
This ensures accountability and rigorous security protocols for organizations.
Centralized Governance In a centralized governance structure, decision making authority is concentrated at the top levels of the organization, leading to quicker decision making processes.
For example, in a centralized IT governance model, a single department might be responsible for all IT related decisions, resulting in a uniform implementation of policies.
However, drawbacks include limited responsiveness to unique departmental needs and the potential for a single point of failure.
Decentralized Governance Decentralized governance distributes decision making authority within an organization, allowing localized control to accommodate diverse needs and locations.
While fostering innovation, it can lead to inconsistencies.
Some organizations use a hybrid approach, combining centralized and decentralized elements.
Major Focus of Information Security Governance Risk management Resource management Performance measurement Strategic alignment Value delivery Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) The GRC of every organization varies based on the type of organization.
G GOVERNANCE R RISK C It depends on an organizations mission, size, industry, culture, and legal regulations.
COMPLIANCE The ultimate responsibility of the GRC program is to protect their assets and operations, including their IT infrastructure and information.
Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) Governance It is the responsibility of the board of directors and senior management of the organization.
Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) A governance program has the following goals: Ensure risk is being managed appropriately Verify responsible use of the organizations resources Ensure objectives are achieved Provide strategic direction Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) It is the process of managing risk to acceptable levels within an organization.
Risk management Compliance It involves developing and implementing internal controls to manage and mitigate various risks, including financial, investment, physical, and cyber risks.
It is the act of adhering to and demonstrating compliance with mandated requirements defined by laws and regulations.
It also includes voluntary requirements resulting from contractual obligations and internal policies.
Elements of the Risk Management Process Security Definitions Asset: Any information, software, hardware, or equipment utilized for, and critical to, business objectives, service delivery, and financial success 1 Threat: Any potential danger to systems or information 3 2 4 Risk: The likelihood of a threat agent exploiting a weakness or vulnerability, resulting in business impact 5 Countermeasure or safeguard: Measures implemented to mitigate potential risks 7 6 Vulnerability: Any hardware, software, or procedural weakness that may allow unauthorized access to resources Threat Agent: Any entity that exploits a vulnerability Exposure: An instance of being exposed to losses from a threat agent Business Scenario While studying the information risk management process, Kevin made notes on security definitions based on examples from his day to day work: Asset: Servers and systems of the company Vulnerability: Weak rule in firewall Threat: Hacking network or servers Threat Agent: Hacker Risk: Loss of critical organizational data Exposure: 25% loss of data (which is unencrypted) Question: What will the risk management process achieve?
Business Scenario While studying the information risk management process, Kevin made notes on security definitions based on examples from his day to day work: Asset: Servers and systems of the company Vulnerability: Weak rule in firewall Threat: Hacking network or servers Threat Agent: Hacker Risk: Loss of critical organizational data Exposure: 25% loss of data (which is unencrypted) Question: What will the risk management process achieve?
Answer: It helps to maintain the identified risks at an acceptable level.
Risk Assessment Risk assessment is a systematic and structured process where the organization: Identifies, analyzes, and evaluates risks associated with potential threats and vulnerabilities Makes informed decisions and prioritizes resource allocation effectively Types of Risk Assessments The different types of risk assessments include: Ad hoc risk assessment Recurring risk assessment One time risk assessment Continuous risk assessment Types of Risk Assessments Ad hoc risk assessments Recurring risk assessments Ad hoc assessments are sporadic and arise in response to specific events or perceived threats.
This type of assessment focuses on immediate dangers and is characterized by flexibility and swift implementation.
Recurring assessments are routine and scheduled to occur at predetermined intervals.
This approach ensures that the organization's security posture is regularly monitored, evolving threats are detected, and changes in the environment or operations are addressed.
Types of Risk Assessments One time risk assessments Continuous risk assessments One time assessments are conducted for specific scenarios or projects, often at the inception of a new venture, system implementation, or organizational change.
Continuous risk assessment goes beyond the periodic nature of recurring assessments.
It is characterized by realtime monitoring and risk analysis.
This dynamic approach integrates risk assessment into the organization's daily operations, allowing instantaneous detection and response to threats as they arise.
Information Risk Management Information risk management is the process of identifying and assessing risk, reducing it to an acceptable level, and implementing the right mechanisms to maintain it at that level.
Recognition of the uncertainty Threat impact Threat event Threat frequency Annualized cost Risk mitigation Cost or benefit analysis Risk Management: Steps There are four steps in the risk management life cycle: 1.IT risk identification 2.
IT risk analysis Risk management life cycle 3.
Risk response and mitigation 4.
Risk and control monitoring And reporting 1 Risk Identification Risk identification is the process of documenting any risks that could prevent an organization or program from reaching its objectives.
It includes the following key points: The first step in the risk management process, designed to help companies understand and plan for potential risks The process of discovering, categorizing, and documenting risks to an organization Important because only identified risks can be evaluated and addressed with suitable responses Risk Identification Method Methods for identifying risks include: Brainstorming Interviews Questionnaires OEM updates Regular testing Subscriptions to blogs 2 Risk Analysis Risk analysis is the analysis of the probability and consequences of each known risk.
Risk analysis prioritizes risks and calculates the cost of safeguards.
It provides a cost/benefit comparison between cost of safeguards and cost of loss.
It identifies and prioritizes the risk factors with great impact.
It also integrates the security program objectives with the organizations business objectives and requirements.
Goals of Risk Analysis Identifying organizational assets and their value Measuring the probability and impact of latent threats Identifying vulnerabilities and threats Goals of Risk Analysis Balancing the cost of countermeasures and the impact of threats Asset Valuation The following issues should be considered when assigning values to an asset: Cost to acquire or develop the asset Cost to maintain and protect the asset Value of the asset to owners and users Value of the asset to adversaries Value of intellectual property that went into developing the information Price others are willing to pay for the asset Cost to replace the asset if lost or damaged.
Operational and production activities that are affected if the asset is unavailable Liability issues if the asset is compromised Usefulness and role of the asset in the organization Risk Analysis Team An organization needs to form a risk analysis team to analyze risks effectively.
These are the stakeholders in a risk analysis team: Information security officer Executive sponsor Risk Manager Risk Analysis Team System technical Owner System or network administrator System business owner Risk Analysis Team The steps to perform risk analysis: Risk analysis and assessment Asset and information value assignment Countermeasure selection and implementation Types of Risk Analysis Quantitative Uses risk calculations that attempt to predict the level of monetary losses and the percentage of chance for each type of threat Is objective in nature Qualitative Is situation and scenario based Is subjective in nature Does not assign numbers and monetary values to components and losses Key Terms in Quantitative Risk Analysis Asset Exposure factor Single Loss Expectancy (SLE) Total value of assets Percentage of loss the organization would suffer if a risk materializes Also referred to as the loss potential Cost associated with a single realized risk against a specific asset Calculated as SLE = AV (Asset Value) * EF (Exposure Factor) Expressed in dollars Key Terms in Quantitative Risk Analysis Annualized Rate of Occurrence (ARO) Frequency with which a specific threat will occur within a single year Ranges from 0 (threat will not occur) to large numbers Also known as probability determination Annualized Loss Expectancy (ALE) Possible yearly cost of all instances of a specific threat realized against a specific asset Calculated as ALE = SLE * ARO Annual Cost of Safeguard (ACS) Cost associated with procuring, developing, and maintaining control against a potential threat ACS should not exceed the ALE Quantitative Risk Analysis Steps Step 1: Assign asset value Step 6: Perform cost or benefit analysis of countermeasure Step 2: Calculate exposure factor Steps in quantitative risk analysis Step 5: Derive annualized loss expectancy(ALE) Step 3: Calculate single loss expectancy (SLE) Step 4: Assess annualized rate of occurrence(ARO) Quantitative Risk Analysis: Problem Problem: A fire destroys a server with encrypted data.
Consider the following conditions: Asset value: $6,000 Exposure factor (EF): 50% Annualized rate of occurrence (ARO): 10% chance of fire in one year Solution: Single Loss Expectancy (SLE): $6,00050%=$3,000$6,00050%=$3,000 Annual Loss Expectancy (ALE): 10%$3,000=$30010%$3,000=$300?
Qualitative Risk Analysis The following issues should be considered when assigning values to an asset: Probability and impact assessment: Risks are scored based on their likelihood of occurring and Threat Threat Probability Impact Countermeasure Fire Low High Fire Extinguishers Theft Medium High Key cards, guards Logical Intrusion Medium High Intrusion prevention system their impact on project objectives Use of judgment and experience: Relies on judgment, best practices, intuition, and the experience of people to evaluate and measure risks Risk Matrix A risk matrix is a tool used to determine the level of risk and aid in decision making.
The matrix evaluates risks based on their likelihood and impact: LIKELIHOOD IMPACT Negligible (1) Minor (2) Moderate (3) Significant (4) Severe (5) Very Likely (5) 5 10 15 20 25 Likely (4) 4 8 12 16 20 Possible (3) 3 6 9 12 15 Unlikely (2) 2 4 6 8 10 Very Unlikely (1) 1 2 3 4 5 Qualitative Risk Analysis Qualitative analysis techniques include judgment, best practices, intuition, and experience.
Examples of qualitative techniques to gather data are: Delphi Brainstorming Storyboarding Focus Groups Surveys Questionnaires Checklists One on one meetings Interviews Qualitative and Qualitative Risk Analysis The approach to risk analysis will be decided based on the risk analysis team, management, risk analysis tools, and the culture of the company.
Key attributes of each approach include: Attributes Quantitative Qualitative Requires complex calculations X Requires high degree of guess work X Provides credible cost/benefit analysis X Provides opinions of the individuals who know the process well X Shows clear cut losses that can be accrued within one year X Hybrid Analysis Hybrid analysis uses both quantitative and qualitative analysis.
The following points highlight why hybrid analysis is required: It is almost impossible to carry out only quantitative assessment Qualitative analysis does not provide sufficient data to make financial decisions Quantitative evaluation is used for financial values of tangible assets Qualitative assessment can be used for priority values of intangible assets Risk Register A risk register is a centralized repository that records identified risks, their characteristics, and their management plans.
Key aspects of a risk register include: Centralized documentation: Provides a detailed log of risks identified during a risk assessment Structured risk management: Offers a way to track and evaluate risks over time Inclusion of Key Risk Indicators (KRIs): Identifies risk owners and specifies the risk threshold Effective monitoring and management: Helps organizations monitor and manage risks effectively Components of Risk Registers Risk ID Description The risk ID is a unique identifier for each risk, making it easier to track and manage.
It is usually a numeric or alphanumeric code.
Assigning a unique ID to each risk ensures that no ambiguity exists when discussing or monitoring it.
The description provides a brief but clear explanation of the risk, outlining what it is and why it is a concern.
A well articulated description ensures that everyone in the organization understands the nature of the risk, which is crucial for effective management and mitigation.
Current status The current status indicates whether the risk is above or below the defined threshold.
This helps in monitoring the risks progression and impact over time.
Components of Risk Registers Key risk indicator KRIs are an essential element of a risk register.
They serve as metrics that provide an early signal of increasing risk exposure in various areas of the organization.
KRIs act as early indicators of risk and are instrumental in anticipating potential problems and allowing organizations to enact proactive measures to mitigate such risks.
Risk owners A risk owner is an individual or team assigned to risk management.
The risk owner is responsible for implementing risk mitigation strategies and monitoring their effectiveness over time.
Risk threshold The risk threshold is the level of risk that an organization is willing to accept before action is required.
Setting a risk threshold helps automate the risk response process.
If a risk crosses this threshold, it triggers a predefined action or escalation, ensuring timely intervention.
Sample Risk Register Risk ID Description Indicator Owner Threshold Status Plan 1 Data breach Financial loss IT Dept $10,000 Under Threshold Implement 2FA 2 Noncompliance Legal penalties Legal Dept 2 incidents Over Threshold Review compliance policy 3 Supply chain disruption Operational delay Ops Dept 5 days Under Threshold Diversify suppliers 4 Reputational damage Customer churn Marketing 10% Under Threshold Crisis communicati on plan Risk Response The risk response phase of risk management focuses on the decisions made regarding the correct way to respond to risk.
This phase involves identifying, evaluating, and implementing strategies to address risks effectively.
Handling Risk Risk treatment can be done in the following four ways: Transfer the risk 1 Accept the loss 2 4 3 Take measures Terminate the risk activity Risk Mitigation Risk mitigation involves implementing safeguards and countermeasures to eliminate vulnerabilities or block threats.
Effective risk mitigation strategies include: Example: Implementing Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to address the shortcomings of a network firewall in handling web application attacks Risk Transfer Risk transfer involves shifting the cost of loss a risk represents onto another entity or organization.
This strategy helps manage risk by transferring the financial burden.
Examples of risk transfer include: Cyber Insurance: Purchasing insurance to cover potential cyber related losses.
Outsourcing: Contracting out certain business functions to third party organizations, transferring the associated risks.
Risk Acceptance Risk acceptance occurs when the cost/benefit ratio indicates that the cost of the countermeasure outweighs the potential loss value.
This strategy involves recognizing the risk and deciding not to take any action to mitigate it.
Examples of situations where risk acceptance might be appropriate include: The cost of the asset is less than the cost of the countermeasure.
Changes in government policies.
Changes in client policies.
Risk Avoidance Risk avoidance involves terminating the associated activity that introduces the risk.
This strategy is Not buying a property or business to avoid taking on the liability that comes with it.
Not flying to avoid the risk of the airplane being hijacked.
Residual Risk Residual risk is the risk that remains after countermeasures and controls have been implemented.
This type of risk acknowledges that it is not always possible to eliminate all risks entirely.
Inherent Risk Impact of Risk controls Residual Risk Residual Risk Persistent nature of risk: Risk is never fully eliminated, and residual risk always remains.
Trade offs in risk management: Reducing one risk inevitably introduces another risk, hopefully of a lesser nature.
Acceptable Risk Levels: Residual risk should be equal to the organization's criteria for acceptable risk and risk tolerance.
Residual Risk Mitigation Here is a flowchart that explains the steps in the risk mitigation process: Risk < Acceptable level?
Yes No Mitigate risk No Mitigation cost > Asset value Yes Accept risk Risk Capacity, Risk Appetite and Risk Tolerance Risk appetite: The amount of risk an organization is willing to take.
Risk capacity: The maximum risk an organization can afford to take.
Risk tolerance: Acceptable deviations from the risk appetite.
Risk Capacity, Risk Appetite and Risk Tolerance Risk capacity: Risk capacity is always greater compared to tolerance and appetite.
Risk Capacity Risk Tolerance Risk tolerance: Tolerance can either be equal to or greater than appetite.
Risk tolerance levels are acceptable deviations from risk appetite.
Risk acceptance: Risk acceptance should generally be within the risk appetite of the organization.
It should never exceed the risk capacity.
Risk Acceptance Aggregated Risk and Cascading Risk Aggregated risk: Cascading risk It refers to a significant impact caused It occurs when one failure leads to a by a large number of minor chain reaction of failures.
This is vulnerabilities.
Individually, these minor particularly relevant where IT and vulnerabilities may not have a major operations have close dependencies.
impact, but when exploited The security manager should consider simultaneously, they can cause a the impact of one activity's failure on substantial impact.
other dependent systems.
Countermeasure Selection: Problem A commonly used cost/benefit calculation for a given safeguard is as follows: Value of the safeguard to the company = (ALE before implementing safeguard) (ALE after implementing safeguard) (Annual cost of safeguard) Problem: ALE of the threat of a fire bringing down a web server prior to implementing the suggested safeguard = $10,000 ALE after implementing the safeguard= $2,000 Annual cost of maintenance and operation of the safeguard = $500 Solution: Value of the safeguard to the company = $10,000 $2,000 $500 = $7,500 Countermeasure Selection: Other Factors Other factors that influence the selection of a countermeasure or safeguard include: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) TCO is the total cost of a mitigating safeguard Return on Investment (ROI) ROI is the amount of money saved by implementing a safeguard Uncertainty Uncertainty refers to the degree to which you lack confidence in an estimate.
This is expressed as a percentage, from 0 to 100 percent.
For example, if you have a 25 percent confidence level in something, it means you have a 75 percent uncertainty level.
Risk Response Risk response involves the following: Evaluating countermeasures, safeguards, and security controls using a cost/benefit analysis Adjusting findings based on other conditions, concerns, priorities, and resources Providing a proposal of response options in a report to senior management Controls or Countermeasures Physical control Security controls are the measures taken to safeguard an information system from attacks against the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information system.
Security controls are selected and applied based on a risk assessment of the information system.
The risk assessment process identifies system threats and vulnerabilities, and then security controls are selected to reduce or mitigate the risk.
Controls based on implementation Technical control Administrative control Deterrent control Categories of controls Preventive control Controls based on functionality Detective control Corrective control Recovery control Compensating control Security Controls Security controls are put in place to reduce the risk an organization faces.
These controls are necessary to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your assets.
Control Categories Administrative controls Technical controls Physical controls Administrative Controls Administrative controls are managerial controls that focus on personal and business practices.
These are the policies and procedures defined by an organization's security policy and other regulations or requirements.
Administrative controls are managerial controls with a focus on personal and business practices.
These are the policies and procedures defined by an organization's security policy and other regulations or requirements.
Examples of administrative controls include security documentation, risk management, personnel security, and training.
Technical Controls Technical controls, also known as logical controls, are implemented as systems (hardware, software, or firmware) to manage and protect information assets.
Technical controls are implemented as systems (hardware, software, or firmware).
Examples of technical controls include firewalls, Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), antivirus software, and encryption.
Physical Controls Physical controls are implemented to protect facilities, personnel, and other physical resources.
Physical controls are implemented to protect facilities, personnel, and other physical resources.
Examples of physical controls include security guards, CCTV, locks, doors, fencing, and lighting.
Control Types Detective Preventive Deterrent Control Types Corrective Recovery Compensative Preventive Control Preventive controls are intended to stop an incident from occurring.
They operate before an attack can take place, eliminating or reducing the likelihood of a successful attack.
Examples include walls and locks, which stop people from entering an area in an unauthorized manner.
Detective Control Detective controls are intended to discover or detect unwanted or unauthorized activity.
These controls include security guards, logs, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and the review of outputs from a security information and event management (SIEM) system by the security team.
Deterrent Control Deterrent controls are intended to discourage potential attackers.
These controls include warning signs, policies, NDAs, and legal penalties against trespassing or intrusion.
Corrective Control Corrective controls are intended to correct problems resulting from a security incident.
They reduce or eliminate the opportunity for the unwanted event to recur.
Examples include using a fire extinguisher to put out a fire or patching a system to fix vulnerabilities.
Recovery Control Recovery controls are intended to bring the environment back to regular operations.
These controls include backups and disaster recovery plans.
Control Selection The selection of security controls will depend on the nature of the business, the complexity of the environment, and the value of the assets.
A security control must make good business sense, meaning it should be cost effective, and its benefits must outweigh its costs.
Control Matrix Preventive Administrative Separation of duties Technical Firewall Physical Walls, fences, gates Detective Deterrent Corrective Recovery Audit Disciplinary policy Employee disciplinary actions Disaster recovery plan IDS Warning banner at login Vulnerability patches Data backup CCTV Beware of Dog sign Fire suppression systems Disaster recovery site Multiple Control Facilities Controls can provide several functions, depending on their implementation and operation.
Surveillance cameras are considered deterrent controls because they discourage potential attackers from performing unauthorized actions.
They are considered detective controls because they identify and record security incidents.
They serve as compensating controls by providing an additional detection method for security guards.
Risk Monitoring and Measurement The risk environment is dynamic due to the organization's internal and external environments constantly changing.
Organizations should continuously monitor IT risks and controls, communicate findings to relevant stakeholders, and ensure the continued efficiency and effectiveness of the IT risk management strategy and its alignment with business objectives.
Risk Measurement KRIs and KPIs can be used to measure, monitor, and report risk.
The two are explained in detail below.
Key risk indicator (KRI) Key performance indicators (KPIs) A key risk indicator (KRI) is a measure used in risk management to indicate the risk level of an activity.
By comparing an appropriate set of key risk indicators with defined thresholds, organizations receive early warnings when a risk approaches an unacceptable level.
A key performance indicator (KPI) is used to measure how well a process is performing in terms of its stated goals.
KPIs are used to set benchmarks for risk management goals and monitor whether those goals are being met.
KPI and KRI KPIs and KRIs are often used in conjunction with one another to measure performance and mitigate risk.
KPIs and KRIs must be SMART metrics.
KPIs identify underperforming aspects, while KRIs provide early warnings of increased risk.
Users must understand the context to build the best measures for KPIs and KRIs.
Risk Reporting Include information on current risk management capabilities, status, and trends in a risk report.
Document and report the results of the risk monitoring process to senior management regularly.
Trigger a report to senior management and reassess risk controls following significant security incidents or changes in risk.
Business Impact Analysis (BIA) Business impact analysis is an important phase to achieve a comprehensive BCP (Business continuity planning) or DRP (Disaster recovery policy).
The business impact analysis Determines the impact of disruption to the organizations IT systems on business processes and functions.
Enables the BCP (Business continuity policy) or DR (Disaster recovery) project manager to plan requirements and priorities for IT contingencies by identifying and prioritizing critical IT systems and components.
BIA: Goals The three major goals of BIA are: Identifies and prioritizes every critical business unit process Criticality prioritization Evaluates the impact of a disruptive event Assigns a higher priority rating for recovery to time critical business processes than to non critical business processes Estimates Maximum tolerable downtime (MTD) using the BIA Downtime estimation Resource requirements Determines the downtime required for the business to remain viable Ensures non recovery if the interruption of a critical process extends beyond the maximum tolerable downtime Estimates resource requirements Allocates most resources to time sensitive processes compared to less critical processes BIA: Steps The steps of a BIA are outlined here: Selects individuals to interview for data gathering Identifies the resources on which the critical business functions depend Calculates risk for each business function Creates and uses data gathering techniques Calculates the longevity of these functions without the identified resources Gathers, analyzes, and interprets qualitative and quantitative impact information Identifies the company's critical business functions Identifies vulnerabilities and threats to these functions Documents findings and reports to management BIA Steps: Business Unit Level For each major business unit within the organization, the following steps will be performed: Identifies business components or activities that, if disrupted or unavailable, could jeopardize the company's operations Determines required Maximum tolerable downtime Maximum Tolerable Downtime (MTD) Maximum Tolerable Downtime is: The maximum period during which the organizations key processes and functions are unavailable, leading to significant losses.
The duration measured in minutes, hours, days, or longer, depending on the nature of the business.
The timeline revised several times during the course of a project.
Failure and Recovery Metrics A number of metrics are used to quantify the frequency of system failures.
Recovery point objective Level of data, work loss, or system inaccessibility resulting from a disruptive event Expressed in units of time Recovery time objective Maximum time allowed to recover business or IT systems Expressed in units of time such as minutes, hours, or days Failure and Recovery Metrics Mean time between failures Predicted elapsed time between inherent failures of a system during operation Calculated elapsed time as the arithmetic mean time between failures of a system Mean time to repair Duration to recover a specific failed system Total corrective maintenance time divided by the total number of corrective maintenance actions during a given period Minimum operating requirements Minimum environmental and connectivity requirements for computer equipment to operate Importance of documentation for each IT critical asset Third Party Risk Assessment and Management Third Party Vendor Management Engages a third party vendor, a company not under direct business control, in any business arrangement, by contract or otherwise Outsources business processes to third party companies Outsources systems, business processes, and data processing to service providers to focus on core competencies, reduce costs, and quickly deploy new applications Manages third party risk with a comprehensive plan to identify and mitigate potential business uncertainties and legal liabilities Types of Third Party Relationships Outsourced Hybrid Activities performed by the organization's own staff.
Activities performed by the vendor's staff.
Activities performed jointly by staff from both the organization and the vendor.
Onsite Offsite Offshore Activities performed by staff working onsite in the IT department.
Staff working from remote locations in the same geographical area.
Staff working from remote locations in different geographical areas.
Insourced Third Party Risks Information security or data privacy Business continuity Lacks sufficient experience and controls to protect the company's and customer's information from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or destruction Cannot continuously maintain services due to business disruption (e.g., ineffective redundancy procedures) Financial viability Is not financially secure enough to continue providing services at acceptable levels Third Party Risks Contract compliance Legal or regulatory Fails to align products, services, or systems with your policies, procedures, applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards Lacks necessary licenses and expertise to ensure compliance with domestic and international laws and regulations Vendor Assessment Vendor Assessment Vendor assessment Conducts a thorough background check to evaluate potential suppliers' due diligence, competence, and dependability, safeguarding business interests and maintaining quality control Evaluates a potential supplier's capabilities, reliability, and suitability to meet a company's needs and determine their trustworthiness as a partner Importance of Vendor Assessment Reduced risk: Identifies potential risks associated with a vendor, such as financial instability, security vulnerabilities, or poor performance history Improved decision making: Enables companies to make more informed business decisions through objective evaluation of vendors against defined criteria Ensured compliance: Ensures that vendors meet regulatory requirements or industry standards relevant to your business Stronger vendor relationships: Opens communication channels and establishes clear expectations with the vendor from the outset Vendor Assessment Activities Independent assessments Right to audit clause Evidence of internal audits Vendor Assessment Activities Supply chain analysis Penetration testing Financial ability analysis Vendor Assessment Activities Independent assessments Right to audit Includes a right toaudit clause in vendor agreements, granting organizations the ability to conduct onthe spot audits of vendors' systems and processes to verify compliance with standards and regulations Evidence of internal audits Reviews internal audit reports to evaluate vendors' controls and risk management, enhancing decision making and operational resilience Conducts third party audits to provide an unbiased evaluation of a vendors operations, security practices, and compliance status, offering an impartial perspective on the vendors risk profile Vendor Assessment Activities Penetration testing Supply chain analysis Understands a vendor's supply chain to anticipate and manage potential disruptions and risks effectively Financial ability analysis Assesses the vendor's financial health to ensure they can reliably fulfill their obligations and prevent the company from going out of business during service delivery Conducts penetration testing, or pen testing, to run simulated cyberattacks, identify and understand system vulnerabilities, and assess how well the vendor system can protect against attacks Vendor Selection Vendor Selection Vendor selection Involves thorough assessments and evaluations to ensure vendors align with the organizations goals and operational standards Aims to minimize risks by choosing providers based on needs, goals, and risk tolerance, considering quality, reliability, and security, not just costeffectiveness Activities for Vendor Selection Conducting due diligence Activities for vendor selection Identifying conflict of interests Due Diligence Refers to the comprehensive appraisal of a vendors business practices, financial stability, reputation, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations Is an essential step in vendor selection to ensure that the organization partners with a reliable and competent third party Involves cybersecurity professionals to ensure that the organization follows industry best practices Activities of Due Diligence Activities performed as part of due diligence Financial audits: Reviews the vendors financial statements to assess stability Security assessments: Evaluates the vendors cybersecurity measures and protocols Legal checks: Verifies compliance with industryspecific laws and regulations Conflict of Interests Occurs when a vendor's personal or professional interests could interfere with acting in the best interests of your organization Is crucial to identify and manage these conflicts to maintain fairness in the vendor selection process Requires evaluating existing relationships between decision makers and vendors, and addressing potential undue influences to uphold transparency Factors to Look for in Conflict of Interest Activities that may indicate a conflict of interest.
Financial conflicts: These conflicts occur when a decision maker in an organization has a financial stake in the vendor company.
Relational conflicts: These conflicts occur when personal relationships could influence vendor selection.
Competitive conflicts: These conflicts occur when a vendor may also be a competitor in some aspects of the business.
Agreement Types Agreement These are the legal backbone of vendor relationships, outlining responsibilities, expectations, and boundaries.
It is crucial to understand different agreement types to establish clear contractual foundations, reduce vulnerabilities, and ensure adequate protection.
Types of Agreements: SLA An SLA, which stands for Service Level Agreement, is a formal document that outlines the agreed upon level of service expected between a service provider and a customer.
It is essentially a contract that defines the responsibilities of both parties to ensure clear expectations and a smooth working relationship.
Components of SLA Responsibilities A clear description of the services that the provider will deliver, which can range from IT support and network uptime to cloud storage capacity and software functionality.
Performance standards The expected level of service quality may include uptime percentages, response times for tickets, and data availability guarantees.
The breakdown of responsibilities: the provider outlines their tasks, and the customer outlines their responsibilities for effective use Measurement and reporting Remedies Service exclusions Methods for measuring performance against the agreedupon standards.
This might involve generating reports on uptime, response times, or other relevant metrics Actions that will be taken if the service provider fails to meet the agreed upon standards.
This could involve service credits, discounts, or even termination of the agreement in extreme cases Clearly states any services or functionalities that are not included in the agreement to avoid confusion.
Service provided Other Types of Agreements Business Partnership Agreement The Business Partnership Agreement (BPA) is a legal document for two companies entering a profit venture.
It outlines contributions, rights, responsibilities, operational rules, decision making, profit distribution, and termination terms.
Memorandum of Understanding Memorandum of Agreement An MOA is a legally binding document that outlines the terms, conditions, roles, and responsibilities of all parties involved.
It aims to clarify expectations, prevent disputes, and ensure mutual cooperation.
An MOU is a formal acknowledgment of a mutual agreement between two or more parties.
It reflects a serious commitment from all involved parties but generally lacks the enforceability of a legal contract.
It serves primarily as a statement of intent.
Other Types of Agreements Non Disclosure Agreement Master Service Agreement The Master Services Agreement (MSA) outlines general terms and conditions governing the contractual relationship and covers payment terms, dispute resolution, intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and liability provisions.
Statement of Work/Work Order An MSA outlines partnership terms, while a WO or SOW focuses on specific tasks.
The SOW provides detailed work breakdown, timelines, deliverables, and compensation.
An NDA is a legal contract where an employee or business partner agrees not to disclose trade secrets without authorization, preventing sharing with competitors.
Vendor Monitoring, Questionnaires and Rules of Engagement Vendor Monitoring Vendor monitoring is a pivotal aspect of third party risk management and provides a systematic approach to evaluating and overseeing vendors performance and compliance.
It ensures that vendors adhere to contractual obligations, maintain high quality standards, and comply with applicable regulations and industry best practices.
Questionnaires Questionnaires for vendor monitoring are designed to gather detailed information about a vendors operations, including financial stability, regulatory compliance, performance history, and security measures.
The insights gathered help assess risks and ensure vendors align with organizational values and goals.
Rules of Engagement The term "rules of engagement" refers to the agreed upon guidelines for activities and interactions between an organization and a vendor.
It covers issue resolution, service/product changes, and reporting security vulnerabilities.
Clear rules reduce ambiguity and conflicts, which is crucial in areas like cybersecurity, where delays can be critical.
Considerations for Rules of Engagement Clarity and alignment: Rules of engagement provide clarity by clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of both the organization and the vendor.
Conflict prevention: Establishing rules in advance helps organizations address potential sources of disagreement, reducing the likelihood of disputes.
Efficiency: Clear rules make processes more efficient, streamlining communication and reducing delays.
Summarize Elements of Effective Security Compliance What is Compliance?
In IT security and data privacy, compliance refers to adhering to rules and regulations established to protect information assets, systems, and user privacy.
It refers to the state of being by a set of rules and regulations established to safeguard information assets, systems, and user privacy Compliance Reporting It is a critical component that ensures organizations adhere to regulatory standards, industry best practices, and internal policies.
These reports serve as a roadmap to assess an organizations security posture, identify vulnerabilities, and drive continuous improvement.
Example of Compliance Reporting FCPA compliance: This report evaluates due diligence programs and internal accounting controls to prevent corrupt practices and ensure compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
PCI DSS Compliance: This report summarizes the documentation and testing of security controls, essential for businesses handling credit card transactions.
HIPAA or GDPR compliance: A HIPAA compliance report involves measures for safeguarding patient health information, and a GDPR compliance report includes protocols for protecting personal data and privacy rights within the European Union Internal and External Reporting Internal Reporting Internal compliance reporting involves the assessment and measurement of an organizations adherence to its own security policies, standards, and procedures.
Internal compliance reporting involves systematic documentation, often facilitated through internal audits conducted by an inhouse team.
The findings from these reports are actionable data, allowing immediate resource allocation for updates or staff retraining.
External Reporting External compliance reporting focuses on demonstrating an organizations adherence to external standards, regulations, and industry specific requirements.
These reports are usually formatted according to specific guidelines and are submitted to regulatory bodies, third party auditors, or industry specific organizations.
External reporting is critical.
Errors can result in fines or legal action.
For example, a financial institution misreporting its capital ratios could face severe repercussions.
Consequences of Noncompliance Consequences of Noncompliance Noncompliance with regulations, standards, or internal policies can have severe repercussions for an organization.
Consequences vary depending on the specific regulation or standard violated and the industry in which the organization operates.
Consequences of Noncompliance Sanctions Reputational damages Involves restricted access to sensitive data or networks until compliance is achieved Imposes limitations on electronically transmitting patient records for noncompliant healthcare providers Occurs when an organization's public image and credibility are negatively impacted due to non compliance with regulations or standards, often seen after incidents like data breaches Fines Cybersecurity fines are imposed for reasons such as data breaches or unauthorized data access.
GDPR fines can reach 20 million or 4% of a companys annual global turnover.
Systemic failures in cybersecurity measures may result in fines, requiring updates to infrastructure and training programs.
Requires organizations to review cybersecurity protocols, enhance data encryption, enforce stricter access controls, and conduct regular cybersecurity audits to lift sanctions Erodes trust in the organization's ability to safeguard data, leading to longlasting impacts on business operations Consequences of Noncompliance Loss of licenses Results in losing a license to operate, a severe consequence for organizations often due to cybersecurity lapses Leads to financial institutions losing their license if they fail cybersecurity audits, effectively shutting down the business Requires compliance with industry specific cybersecurity regulations to prevent such outcomes Contractual impact Refers to the negative effects on existing agreements and future business relationships due to an organizations failure to comply with legal, regulatory, or agreed upon standards Leads to severe repercussions, such as contract termination and legal disputes Results in contract termination if the cybersecurity standards outlined in a service level agreement (SLA) are not met Additional consequences Loss of competitive advantage: A strong security posture is becoming a differentiator in many sectors.
Noncompliance can put organizations at a disadvantage compared to competitors who prioritize information security.
Damage to employee morale: Security incidents and data breaches can negatively impact employee morale and trust in leadership.
Compliance Monitoring Compliance Monitoring Involves assessing an organization's adherence to regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies Includes systematically observing, reviewing, and analyzing organizational activities to identify potential compliance risks and ensure necessary corrective actions are taken Compliance Monitoring Process Due diligence Due care Involves a meticulous examination of an organizations processes, practices, and policies to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements as part of effective compliance monitoring Involves the ongoing practice of maintaining established systems or processes, including actions taken to apply information gathered during the due diligence phase Encompasses proactive efforts to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses through comprehensive risk assessments and ongoing evaluations to maintain a strong security posture Includes continually updating security protocols, conducting regular audits, and ensuring all staff are trained in security best practices Compliance Monitoring Process Internal compliance monitoring External compliance monitoring Internal compliance monitoring ensures adherence to laws, regulations, and policies within an organization.
It includes internal audits, routine checks, vulnerability scans, penetration tests, and reviews of access controls Involves third party entities assessing an organizations compliance with laws, regulations, and standards, such as healthcare providers undergoing audits to ensure adherence to HIPAA regulations Compliance teams regularly audit server security configurations using specialized software and manual log reviews.
Makes the results of external audits available only once they are formally published Compliance Monitoring Process Attestation Acknowledgement Confirms that specific criteria, processes, or systems meet security standards through a formal declaration Is the act of formally accepting or recognizing specific conditions, often documented through signatures or formal agreements Provides evidence or assurance that an organization adheres to standards, often requiring a third party auditor to assess security controls and provide a formal report Is important to stress that acknowledging training is a legally binding activity Serves as a formal record that the employee is aware of the policy and will comply with it Compliance Monitoring Process Automation In compliance monitoring, automation uses software to perform tasks that would otherwise require manual effort.
It can monitor network traffic, detect vulnerabilities, and respond to security incidents without human intervention.
Automation options include using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems to collect and analyze logs, automated vulnerability scanners to scan for weaknesses, and configuration management tools to ensure system settings comply with security policies.
Data breach A data breach is a critical moment where legal regulations and ethical responsibilities intersect, underlining the need to protect personal information in our data driven world.
Organizations must act quickly to address breaches.
Under GDPR, data controllers must report breaches to the relevant authority within 72 hours, while HIPAA requires notifications within 60 days.
Privacy Privacy Data privacy is crucial because it allows individuals to control their personal information and keep it safe from misuse.
By handling data securely, privacy measures protect against cybercrime and identity theft.
Various laws and regulations, such as the EU's GDPR, dictate how personal data should be handled and processed, with ISO 27701 providing guidance for organizations to comply with these laws.
Types of Regulations Local or regional Global At local and regional levels, privacy regulations vary widely to address unique cultural, social, and legal considerations.
For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) gives Californians greater control over their personal information and data privacy.
Global privacy regulations, like GDPR, apply to any organization processing EU citizens' data, setting a global standard for data protection.
ISO 27701 provides a framework for privacy information management systems to help protect personal data.
National National privacy regulations apply to entire countries, defining citizens' privacy rights and placing obligations on organizations.
For example, in the United States, HIPAA safeguards healthcare data privacy.
Types and Purposes of Audits and Assessments Attestation Attestation is a crucial process that involves thoroughly examining and validating information to ensure its accuracy and compliance with standards.
It involves formally affirming the validity of a process, system, or data set, adding trust and integrity to an organizations cybersecurity Audits and Types of Audits Audit An audit is a systematic, repeatable process, where a competent, independent professional evaluates one or more controls, interviews personnel, obtains and analyzes evidence, and develops a written opinion on the effectiveness of the control(s).
The purpose of a risk audit is to provide reasonable assurance that adequate risk controls exist and are operationally effective.
Audits and Types of Audits Internal Audit Performed by an organizations internal staff Reports are typically intended for an internal audience The disadvantage are: o Conflict of interest o Hidden agenda External Audit Performed by third party auditors Reports are intended for third party stakeholders They are unaware of the internal dynamic and politics, hence they may not have any hidden agendas Major disadvantage is the cost Signing an NDA is a prerequisite Internal and Third Party Audits Most regulations mandate an audit, which is an evidence gathering process.
There are three types of audits: First party Internal audit for and by the organization itself Used to confirm or improve the effectiveness of management systems Second party External audit done by customers, regulators, or any external party with a formal interest in an organization Third party External audit performed by independent organizations such as registrars (certification bodies) or regulators Why System and Process Audit Matters?
Ensuring compliances Identifying inefficiencies Audits uncover bottlenecks, redundancies, and inefficiencies within processes, allowing organizations to streamline operations.
Organizations must adhere to various regulations and industry standards.
Audits help verify compliance and avoid legal consequences.
Enhancing quality By evaluating processes and systems, audits lead to improved product and service quality.
Charter It is a formal document that defines the purpose, authority, scope, responsibility, and position of the people performing the assessment.
Authority The charter must be approved by the senior management.
Scoping the assessment is also the responsibility of management.
Charter Scope Responsibility Audit Committee It oversees the audit process, consisting of senior management and experts to ensure effective and transparent audits aligned with organizational goals.
They review plans, evaluate findings, and have authority in implementing changes.
Audit committees must have broad authority to hold others accountable for addressing findings from vulnerability scans or other audits for which each respective department is responsible.
Audit Committee Responsibilities Audit planning Approving the scope and methodology of upcoming audits Oversight Ensuring that corrective actions are implemented Review Periodically reviewing audit reports and findings Accountability Holds departments or individuals responsible for compliance or security issues.
Audit Strategy A clear set of goals should be established.
Audit strategies: The scope of the audit should be determined in coordination with business unit managers.
The business unit managers should be included early in the audit planning process and should be engaged throughout the audit life cycle.
Audit can be Compliance requirements driven by the Significant changes to the architecture following New developments in the threat the organization is facing factors: Audit Planning It is an important activity for both internal and external audits.
Gain an understanding of the clients and their business Establish priorities An audit plan is a project plan that will help the auditor to: Determine an audit strategy Determine the type of evidence to collect based on the risk levels Determine the skills required to examine and evaluate processes and information systems Schedule with the client to coordinate activities Source: https://www.schools.utah.gov/file/1e864d3a 9cd5 4933 a2f2 5d6e2a4e4535 Audit Process The audit process typically happens as described below: 01 Involving stakeholders Bring in business unit managers at the earliest stage possible Ensure the business needs are identified and addressed Goal Determine the goal of the audit 03 Audit team Choose the right audit team Choose whether the team will consist of internal or external personnel depending on the goals, scope, budget, and available expertise Scope Determine the scope of the assessment 02 04 Audit Process 07 05 Conduct the audit Stick to the plan and document deviations Plan the audit Ensure all goals are met on time and are in the budget Communicate Communicate with the right leaders in order to achieve and sustain a strong security posture Documentation Document the results 06 Documentation should start at the beginning of the planning process and continue all the way to the results 08 Elements of a Finding The results of the audit have five elements in them, namely: Effect The difference between and significance of the condition and the criteria Criteria Standards used to measure the activity or performance of the auditee Recommendation Action that must be taken to correct the cause 04 05 02 03 Cause Explanation of why a problem occurred 01 Condition Statement that describes the results of the audit Assessment Report The assessment report should document the process followed, observations, evidence, findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
The assessment report should be presented to relevant levels of senior management.
The exact format of the report will vary by organization.
The levels of details presented will vary by various audiences.
The report should contain sufficient evidence to support the findings.
The audit artifacts collected during the assessment must be protected from alteration or inappropriate disclosure.
Remediation Remediation in the context of auditing refers to the process of correcting identified deficiencies or non conformities to meet audit standards and requirements.
It's a critical step in ensuring ongoing compliance and mitigating risks The internal assessment results may identify areas where corrective actions or improvement is warranted.
The timetable for remediation of the audit findings should be agreed upon.
Issues identified should be prioritized and fixed during the assessment.
Internal assessment should be subject to continual process improvement.
Plan of Action and Milestones (POAM) is a document that identifies tasks for remediation.
It details resources required to accomplish the elements of the plan, any milestones in meeting the tasks, and scheduled completion dates for the milestones.
Phishing Phishing Phishing is a cybercrime where attackers obtain sensitive information by pretending to be trustworthy entities.
It is a form of social engineering that often involves misleading emails, messages, or websites.
It involves distributing phishing messages to many targets in a campaign.
It varies in complexity and scale, from simple email blasts to highly targeted attacks.
It aims to compromise as many accounts or systems as possible.
Types of Phishing The different types of phishing techniques include: Spear phishing is a scam where the attacker uses data to make an individual target more likely to be tricked.
Whaling is a spear phishing attack targeting upper management in an organization.
Vishing is a phishing attack conducted through a voice channel.
Smishing uses text messages (SMS) as the attack vector.
Indicators of Phishing Several Indicators of Phishing to look out for Mismatched URLs Poor grammar and spelling Requests for sensitive information Unsolicited attachments Too good to be true Process to Counter Phishing Isolate the threat: If possible, quarantine the email message to prevent further interaction with other employees Analyze the content: Examine the message for phishing indicators and verify its authenticity.
Notify IT security: Report the incident to the IT security team for further analysis and action Make users aware: Inform the reporting user and, if necessary, the entire organization about the incident to raise awareness.
Update security measures: Based on the findings, update security protocols, filters, and training to guard against similar future attacks Countermeasure for Phishing Do not click on links or download attachments Educate yourself and others Report the phishing attempt immediately Change passwords Anomalous Behavior Recognition Anomalous Behavior Recognition Anomalous behavior recognition identifies patterns or activities that deviate significantly from normal or expected behavior.
It indicates a security threat, such as unauthorized access or data exfiltration.
It helps in preemptive threat detection by recognizing anomalous behavior.
It ensures timely incident response.
Types of Anomalous behavior recognitions Risky Unexpected Unintentional Risky behavior involves actions that pose a higher risk or potential harm to a system or organization, such as sharing login credentials, downloading suspicious files, or ignoring security warnings.
Unexpected behavior includes actions or activities that deviate from established norms or historical patterns, such as a user suddenly trying to access sensitive data or excessive server memory consumption.
Unintentional behavior involves human error or accidents, such as misconfigurations, accidental data leaks or social engineering attacks.
How ABR Works Data Collection: Gathering relevant data points, such as user behavior, system logs, network traffic, or sensor readings Establishing Baseline: Defining normal behavior patterns based on historical data and statistical analysis.
Anomaly Detection: Identifying data points or patterns that significantly deviate from the established baseline Alert Generation: Triggering alerts or notifications when anomalous behavior is detected.
Investigation: Analyzing the detected anomalies to determine if they pose a threat or require further investigation.
IDEAS Applications of Anomalous Behavior Recognition Cyber Security Fraud Detection Intrusion Detection System Identifying suspicious network Detecting fraudulent transactions, Identifying unauthorized access to traffic, unauthorized access credit card fraud, or insurance computer systems or networks.
attempts, or insider threats.
claims. Network Security Industrial Control System Financial Markets Detecting anomalies in network Monitoring equipment behavior Identifying unusual trading traffic patterns to identify potential for signs of malfunction or patterns or market anomalies.
cyberattacks.
Techniques for Anomalous Behavior Recognition Statistical Methods Machine Learning Using statistical analysis to identify outliers in data.
Applying algorithms to learn standard behavior patterns and detect deviations.
Data Mining Rule Based System Discovering hidden patterns in large datasets to identify anomalies.
Defining specific rules to detect anomalies based on predefined conditions.
Challenges with ABR Determining what constitutes normal behavior can be complex, especially in dynamic environments.
Adapting to new and emerging threats that may exhibit previously unseen behavior patterns.
Defining normal behavior False positives and false negatives Balancing sensitivity and specificity to avoid generating too many false alarms or missing critical anomalies.
Evolving threats Data volume Processing and analyzing large volumes of data can be computationally intensive.
User Guidance and Training User Guidance and Training These are crucial elements of a strong cybersecurity strategy.
Empowering employees with knowledge and awareness allows organizations to significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks by enabling active participation in organizational security.
These elements include policies or handbooks, situational awareness, insider threat management, password management, removable media and cable security, social engineering awareness, operational security, and guidelines for hybrid or remote working roles.
Tasks During User Guidance and Training Policy handbooks Situational awareness Clear and comprehensive policies and handbooks are essential for effective user awareness training.
This involves identifying threats, understanding consequences, and making informed decisions to minimize risks.
These may include standard operating procedures, acceptable use policies, security protocols, or consequences of noncompliance.
Regular training boosts users' ability to maintain situational awareness and avoid cyberattacks Tasks During User Guidance and Training Insider threats Detecting and addressing insider threats can be challenging.
Training should cover types of insider threats and foster a culture of trust and vigilance to prepare employees to identify and report suspicious behavior.
Password management Password management involves using strong, unique passwords for different services and applications to ensure ongoing security.
Strong passwords typically include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Tasks During User Guidance and Training Social engineering Social engineering attacks prey on human psychology.
Training should educate users about common social engineering tactics, such as phishing emails, smishing, or vishing (voice phishing over the phone).
Simulated phishing exercises help users develop resistance to deceptive strategies.
Removable media and cables Removable media and cables pose a potential security risk, as these can be vectors for malware or data leakage.
User guidance should emphasize scanning removable media for threats and avoiding unknown devices, such as USB cables left on your desk or sent unexpectedly through the mail.
Tasks During User Guidance and Training Operational security (OPSEC) Operational security involves securing day to day activities, including communication, data encryption, and incident reporting to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
Training should cover best practices for maintaining OPSEC in diverse work environments.
Hybrid/Remote work environment The shift to hybrid and remote work setups has introduced several new security challenges for organizations.
Providing thorough training for employees to address challenges, such as securing home networks and using public Wi Fi for work tasks, is important.
Tasks During User Guidance and Training Virtual private networks (VPNs) These are another crucial element in remote work security.
A VPN encrypts the Internet connection, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept data.
Employees should be trained to set up and use a VPN to ensure a secure connection to the organizations network while working remotely.
Reporting and Monitoring Reporting and Monitoring These involve creating detailed vulnerability reports and continuously tracking security measures to promptly detect and address new threats, maintaining a secure and compliant infrastructure.
This feature involves developing and implementing a plan to respond quickly and effectively to security incidents.
Security Awareness Practice framework Goals/Needs Monitor Feedback Develop Deliver Security Awareness Practice framework Goals/Needs The initial phase of a new training course requires key stakeholders to review specific areas of security awareness training to be addressed in each session Develop A decision is made about the type of training material to be used, such as classroom handouts, lab exercises, or online simulations.
Feedback The feedback stage comes after the training has been completed.
Participants will evaluate the course.
Did it meet the goals?
What adjustments need to be made?
Delivery Stakeholders must decide on the delivery method virtual via Zoom, classroom based with handouts and lectures, or computer based training using simulations or gamification.
Monitor Tracking completion rates for security awareness training is essential during this phase, serving as a key measure of employee engagement and training compliance.
Effectiveness of Training When we deliver security awareness training, we need to measure how effective the training has been.
Measure the effectiveness of cybersecurity training is crucial to ensure that employees are equipped to protect the organization.
By carefully evaluating the effectiveness of cybersecurity training and making necessary adjustments, organizations can significantly enhance their overall security posture.
Types of Effectiveness Initial Assessments We can measure the initial effectiveness of the security awareness training by reviewing business operations.
For example, how many times an account was breached via a phishing scam or other attack, and whether and to what extent that number has dropped following the training?
Recurring Assessments We need to determine if there has been an increase in security incidents six months after the initial training, possibly due to user complacency.
If there is, we'll need to re conduct security awareness training for end users.
Development of Training During development, it's important to identify objectives, define scope, and set measurable goals.
Create a detailed project plan, identify stakeholders, and define their roles.
Develop training materials, simulations, and monitoring mechanisms tailored to the organization's cybersecurity needs.
Execution of Training Security awareness training materials are critical, but successful delivery is equally important.
Delivery turns knowledge into action, fostering a culture of security.
Key components include: 1.
Implementing training modules 2.
Utilizing monitoring tools 3.
Performing simulated attacks Real time monitoring is vital for: 1.
Tracking user engagement 2.
Recording incident reports 3.
Measuring the success rates of simulated attacks Any identified gaps should be promptly addressed, and the program adjusted as needed.
Effective Methods for Implementing Training Customized delivery methods To ensure effective execution, start with the right delivery methods.
Consider your workforce's preferences.
Some may prefer in person training, others online modules, or a mix of both.
Customize your approach to maximize engagement.
Launch with enthusiasm Launch security awareness training with enthusiasm by highlighting cybersecurity's importance and benefits and involve senior leadership to show their commitment to the entire workforce.
Phased rollout Implement a phased approach to training by starting with foundational topics and gradually introducing advanced concepts to prevent overwhelming employees and allow for progressive knowledge building.
Effective Methods for Implementing Training Interactive workshops Incorporate interactive workshops or hands on activities into your training execution.
These sessions provide employees with practical experience and an opportunity to apply their knowledge in real world scenarios.
Scenario based learning Implement scenariobased learning exercises that mimic potential security threats.
These exercises allow employees to practice identifying and responding to security incidents and build confidence in their abilities.
Gamification Gamify the training process by incorporating elements such as quizzes, challenges, and leaderboards.
Gamification makes learning enjoyable and competitive, encouraging active participation and knowledge retention.
Key Takeaways The elements of effective security governance enhance organizational security protocols.
The elements of the risk management process mitigate potential risks effectively.
The processes associated with third party risk assessment and management ensure comprehensive security coverage.
Effective security compliance maintain regulatory standards.
Types and purposes of audits and assessments improve overall security measures.