Facing an unknown malicious threat is one of the biggest challenges for cybersecurity analysts. Unlike known threats, which can often be addressed with existing protocols and tools, unknown threats require adaptive thinking and a strategic approach. Below are key steps analysts can take to detect, analyze, and contain these threats.
1. Identify Anomalous Behavior
Start by scrutinizing network and system behavior for any unusual activities, including unexpected spikes in data flow, unauthorized access attempts, or irregular performance. Unknown threats frequently manifest through anomalous patterns that evade traditional detection methods, so investigating using behavior analytics is essential. Monitoring solutions powered by machine learning can provide a baseline for normal activity, allowing deviations to be flagged as potential threats.
2. Isolate Affected Systems
Upon detecting anomalous activity, isolate affected systems to prevent the threat from spreading. Segmenting the network can contain the threat within a specific area, minimizing further impact. Disconnecting vulnerable endpoints from shared network resources is crucial at this stage. Physical isolation may also be necessary in cases where malicious activity threatens operational technology (OT) or other mission-critical systems.
3. Conduct a Thorough Investigation
Next, conduct an in-depth investigation of the suspected threat. Collect forensic data, including logs, packet captures, and system artifacts. Analyze this information to identify potential indicators of compromise (IoCs), such as unusual IP addresses, rogue processes, or suspicious file types. Dynamic analysis can help by allowing the malicious code to run in isolation, revealing behavioral patterns without risking further network compromise.
4. Leverage Threat Intelligence
Utilize external threat intelligence sources to see if similar patterns or IoCs have been detected in other environments. Connecting with open-source and non-open-source threat intelligence platforms, or collaborating with industry groups, can provide insight into the origins and potential behaviors of unknown threats. This not only aids in identification but can help shape appropriate response measures.
5. Implement Containment and Mitigation Tactics
Based on findings, develop containment and mitigation strategies. This may include blocking specific IPs, disabling compromised accounts, updating firewalls, or deploying patches for vulnerable systems. Analysts should communicate these actions across the organization to prevent accidental reintroduction of the threat and document each step for future reference.
6. Review and Strengthen Security Protocols
After addressing the immediate threat, perform a thorough review of current security practices. Analyze vulnerabilities the threat exploited and consider applying stricter access controls, improving patch management, or updating incident response protocols.
Responding to an unknown malicious threat requires vigilance, collaboration, and rapid adaptability. By isolating systems, conducting a forensic investigation, leveraging threat intelligence, and implementing containment measures, analysts can effectively mitigate unknown threats and bolster overall cybersecurity resilience.
The CodeHunter Solution
Unlike other cybersecurity solutions, CodeHunter was developed to identify unknown malware. In addition to identifying known malware, CodeHunter’s patented deep analysis detects custom, multi-step, and zero-day malware. CodeHunter’s automated threat analysis provides actionable intelligence in minutes, enabling security analysts to respond more efficiently and effectively to analyzed threats. From there, organizations can feed the intelligence CodeHunter has generated back into their security stack to protect against future attacks. Learn how CodeHunter can empower your security stack to be better, stronger, and faster here.
