The key concepts covered in Module 2 of the Threat Management and Cybersecurity Resources:
- Penetration Testing (Pen Test):
- A penetration test (or pen test) is a security assessment technique where ethical hackers simulate attacks on a system or network to identify vulnerabilities. The goal is to uncover weaknesses before malicious actors exploit them.
- Rules of Engagement: These define the scope, boundaries, and constraints of the pen test. They specify what can and cannot be tested, ensuring that the assessment remains controlled and safe.
- Performing a Pen Test: During a pen test, security professionals use various tools and methodologies to probe for vulnerabilities. They attempt to exploit weaknesses, gain unauthorized access, and assess the system’s resilience.
- Vulnerability Scanning:
- Vulnerability scanning involves automated tools that scan networks, systems, and applications for known vulnerabilities. These tools identify security flaws such as outdated software, misconfigurations, or missing patches.
- Regular vulnerability scans help organizations stay proactive by addressing vulnerabilities promptly.
- Cybersecurity Resources:
- Organizations have access to a variety of cybersecurity resources:
- Bug Bounties: Monetary rewards given for uncovering software vulnerabilities. Crowdsourcing is often used for bug bounties, involving people from the internet in the testing process.
- Adversary Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) Database**: This resource catalogs threat actors’ behavior, attack patterns, and management strategies.
- Exploit Acquisition Platforms: Examples include Zerodium, which acquires zero-day vulnerabilities and sells them to government organizations for defensive purposes.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): SIEM tools collect and analyze security event data to detect and respond to threats.
- Incident Response Playbooks: These provide step-by-step instructions for handling security incidents.
- Security Awareness Training: Educating employees about security best practices is crucial.
- Organizations have access to a variety of cybersecurity resources: