Incident Response

A cyber incident is any event that disrupts normal operations, compromises data, or endangers the security of computer systems or networks. This can include a wide range of events, from malware attacks to data breaches to denial-of-service attacks.

A cyberattack is an intentional attempt to disrupt computer systems, steal data, or gain unauthorised access to a network. Cyberattacks can be carried out by individuals, groups, or governments.

Cyber incident response is the process of identifying, containing, eradicating, and recovering from a cyber incident. It is essential to have a well-defined incident response plan in place to ensure that organisations can effectively respond to and recover from cyberattacks.

Incident containment is the process of limiting the spread of a cyber incident to prevent further damage. This includes:

• Isolating affected systems
• Removing malware
• Patching vulnerabilities
• Monitoring for suspicious activity

There are a number of different ways to test your cyber security posture. The specific methods utilised will depend on the size and complexity of your organisation's IT infrastructure. Some common methods of cyber security testing include:

• Vulnerability scanning - Vulnerability scanners can identify and classify security weaknesses in your IT infrastructure. This can help you prioritise your remediation efforts.

• Penetration testing - Penetration testing is a simulated attack that is designed to exploit identified vulnerabilities and test the effectiveness of your security controls. This can provide you with a more comprehensive assessment of your security posture.

• Social engineering testing - Social engineering testing attempts to trick employees into giving up sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. This can help you identify weaknesses in your organisation's security awareness.

• Red team / blue team exercise -Red team / blue team exercises pit two teams against each other in a simulated attack scenario. This can help you identify and address potential weaknesses in your organisation's incident response plan.

Cyber incidents can have a significant negative impact on businesses, including:

• Financial loss
• Data breaches
• Reputational damage
• Operational disruption

By having a well-defined incident response plan, organisations can minimise the impact of cyber incidents and protect their valuable assets.