Reza Rafati
The Power of Asset Management and Cyber Threat Intelligence
Combining asset management and cyber threat intelligence (CTI) is crucial. By managing assets effectively and leveraging CTI, companies can detect potential breaches before they cause significant damage. The Critical Role of Asset Management Asset management involves keeping track of all assets within an organization. This includes hardware, software, data, and other digital resources. Effective asset…
Operation Endgame
Between May 27-29, 2024, Europol coordinated the largest-ever operation against botnets, targeting dropper malware like IcedID, SystemBC, and Trickbot. The operation, involving numerous countries and cybersecurity firms, led to four arrests, 16 searches, the takedown of over 100 servers, and the seizure of over 2,000 domains. The action disrupted major cybercriminal activities, including ransomware deployments.…
Understanding 3D Secure (3DS) and How Threat Intelligence Enhances It
Let’s dive into what 3D Secure (3DS) is and how threat intelligence can make it even better. What is 3D Secure (3DS)? 3D Secure (3DS) is a security protocol designed to add an extra layer of protection for online credit and debit card transactions. It was developed by Visa, with similar versions by Mastercard (Mastercard…
How to Conduct an Effective Cyber Threat Intelligence Stand-Up Meeting
One way to ensure a team stays informed and coordinated is through a Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) stand-up meeting. These meetings, often brief and to the point, are essential for maintaining situational awareness and fostering collaboration among team members. In this article, I’ll walk you through what a CTI stand-up meeting should look like, how…
Using YARA for Malware Analysis
I’ve used this tool in various scenarios, and its utility cannot be overstated. So, what exactly is YARA, and how is it utilized in cybersecurity? What is YARA? YARA, which stands for “Yet Another Recursive Acronym” is an open-source tool designed to help researchers identify and classify malware. Victor Alvarez of VirusTotal created YARA in…
Bulletproof Hosting: A Major Hurdle in Cyber Takedowns
As a cybersecurity expert, I’ve encountered countless obstacles in cyber takedowns, but few are as formidable as bulletproof hosting providers. These entities pose a unique challenge in the digital security landscape, enabling malicious actors to operate with near impunity. In this exploration, I’ll delve into what bulletproof hosting is, why it’s a critical issue, and…
NetFlow-Based Monitoring
We all recognize the critical role that network traffic monitoring plays in safeguarding organizational security. This technology not only streamlines the process of recording and analyzing network flows but also empowers security teams to detect anomalies, enhance network performance, and thwart potential threats efficiently. Understanding NetFlow NetFlow stands out as a network protocol designed to…
Incident Response Information Sharing with IRIS
IRIS stands for Incident Response Information Sharing. It’s a collaborative platform specifically designed for incident response analysts. The platform facilitates the sharing of technical investigations efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re stationed in a secure operations center or conducting field investigations, IRIS adapts to your needs. How IRIS Enhances Incident Response IRIS significantly streamlines the incident…
Cyber Attack Cycle: Actions Phase
This phase, also known as the “actions on objectives” stage, is where the intruder’s plans culminate, whether stealing data, deploying ransomware, or causing operational disruption. Importance of the Actions Phase Following the command and control phase, attackers are poised to carry out their intended actions. They might extract valuable data, execute destructive commands, or leverage…
Cyber Attack Cycle: Command & Control (C2)
The Command & Control (C2) phase is where attackers take command of compromised systems and direct them to perform malicious activities. Why the Command and Control Phase Matters The C&C phase follows the exploitation and installation stages of an attack, where attackers have already breached security and deployed malicious code. At this phase, attackers command…