The Roadmap to Getting Into Threat Hunting
Introduction
Today, data and information are potent instruments for decision-making all over the world. As technology has developed, several different methods are employed to store and secure the data. However, as technology develops, different groups are trying to have appropriate or unauthorized access to this data. For these reasons, knowing topic such as identifying the threats in an application during this time is crucial. We intend to give a basic overview of threat hunting in this post, along with a succinct but thorough explanation of its significance and the various methods it may be examined.
What is threat hunting?
Threat hunting is a general term that can be used to describe the activity of identifying the threats in an application. That is, to find any hacker attacks on any system or network. Threat hunting, commonly sometimes referred to as cyber threat hunting, is a proactive strategy to find unknown or unrecognized dangers within a network of a business.
How does threat hunting work?
The data fertility of an environment is the foundation of a successful threat hunting campaign. In other words, a company must first have a data-collecting enterprise security system in place. Threat hunters can use the data acquired from it as useful information.
In addition to automated solutions, cyber threat hunters add a human element to company security. They are knowledgeable IT security specialists who find, log, monitor and eliminate risks before they can cause significant issues. Ideally, they are security analysts who are well-versed in the operations of the company’s IT department, although occasionally they are external analysts.
Finding threats in an unknown area is the art of threat hunting. It goes beyond conventional detection systems like endpoint detection and response (EDR), security information and event management (SIEM), and others. Security data is combed over by threat hunters. They look for patterns of suspicious activity that a computer might have missed or judged to be resolved but isn’t, as well as hidden malware or attackers. They also assist in patching a company’s security system to stop similar cyber attacks from happening in the future.
Types of threat hunting
Hunters start with a theory founded on security information or a trigger. The theory or catalyst acts as a jumping-off point for a more thorough assessment of potential dangers. And these more in-depth studies involve structured, unstructured, and situational hunting.
- Structured Hunting:
An indication of attack (IoA) and the attacker’s tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) serves as the foundation of a systematic hunt. TTP is a term used by cybersecurity professionals to describe a threat actor’s behaviors, processes, actions, and strategies when developing threats and engaging in cyberattacks. All hunts are coordinated and based on the threat actors’ TTPs. As a result, the hunter is typically able to recognize a threat actor even before the attacker has a chance to harm the ecosystem. This hunting style makes use of the PRE-ATT&CK and enterprise frameworks and the MITRE Adversary Tactics Techniques and Common Knowledge (ATT&CK) framework (link outside of IBM.com)
- Unstructured Hunting:
Based on a trigger, one of the numerous symptoms of compromise, an ad hoc hunt is started (IoC). A hunter is frequently instructed to search for pre- and post-detection patterns by this trigger. The hunter can conduct research to determine their strategy as far back as data retention and prior linked offenses permit.
- Situational or Entity Driven Hunting:
An organization’s internal risk assessment or analysis of trends and vulnerabilities specific to its IT infrastructure can yield a situational hypothesis. Entity-oriented leads are derived from attack data collected from the public, which, when examined, reveal the most recent TTPs of active cyber threats. The threat hunter can then look around the environment for these particular actions.
Who is the threat hunter and what skills do you need to become one?
A threat hunter is not only a qualified person for the position but also has a natural curiosity that drives them to look for potential enemies. They don’t wait for security system notifications or apply patches to find vulnerabilities. Instead, they play the part of internal analysts who are familiar enough with their organization and the idea of threats to pose the correct queries and look for the right replies.
Before, businesses had to be concerned with automated malware and viruses that might pose harm to their IT systems. Today, dangers to your systems come from both viruses and malware as well as persistent and cunning humans. From 146 days in 2015 to 99 days in 2016, the median time for a security breach to be discovered on a worldwide scale has shrunk. However, there are still 99 vulnerable days for you to be concerned about.
You can swiftly mitigate dangers to lessen the harm if you actively seek out hazards rather than waiting for your security tools to alert you to them.
The work of a threat hunter
Cyber-detectives who identify holes in an organization’s IT security system are known as threat hunters. They assist IT teams in using the appropriate technologies to detect and mitigate threats by providing an overview of the endpoints on the system, including all IoT devices, phones, IP addresses, and desktops. Because that is what hackers do, they are conversant with networking best practices and have a thorough understanding of how information moves between systems in a network. They are in charge of looking into the network systems or endpoints for any patterns or signs of compromise before conducting an analysis of the situation. Then look for security holes where several technologies and tools, like email and instant messaging, converge, and they implement biometrics to close such holes. They notify the security officer or Security Operations center of threat risks and then collaborate with management to address such weaknesses.
Skills that a threat hunter must have
Here are the abilities you’ll need if you want to work as a threat hunter:
- Data Analytics
Threat hunters are supposed to keep a close eye on their surroundings, collect information, and conduct a thorough analysis. A skilled threat hunter will therefore be familiar with data science approaches, data analytics, tools, and strategies. They must be able to create charts and diagrams using data visualization tools that will allow them to spot patterns and gain insight into the best course of action for carrying out hunting investigations and operations.
2. Recognizing Patterns
Threat hunters need to be able to spot patterns that correspond to the methods used by hackers, malware, and strange behaviors. In order to notice any unauthorized activity or transaction, they must first study typical network behavior patterns in order to recognize those patterns.
3. Effective Interaction
The ability to clearly communicate information about threats, weaknesses in management, or security team leaders, as well as suggested countermeasures, is a requirement for threat hunters.
4. Capabilities for data forensics
To assess new threats and comprehend how the malware was utilized, its capabilities, and any potential harm it may have caused, a threat hunter needs data forensics expertise. They don’t need to be experts in data forensics, but they do need to be aware of what to look for while reviewing information. For instance, a Trojan virus may take control of the Netcat command, making the system appear to be operating properly when it is actually infected.
5. Recognize how the system functions
You need to have a thorough awareness of how the systems in your environment interact in order to be a threat hunter. Here, the focus is on applying practical know-how that is founded on and derived from an in-depth understanding of how your own organization operates. You must learn how to see around corners for issues. To put it another way, threat hunters should be knowledgeable enough to quickly grasp the implications of a situation. Then, they ought to work with groups and support them to enhance security.
How to become a master threat hunter?
Here are some actions you can take to learn more about being a threat hunter if you already possess these abilities or believe you can pick them up quickly:
- Immerse yourself in the subject and foster a never-ending thirst for knowledge.
- Discover the newest threat-hunting tools.
- Create a “sixth sense” to detect threats.
- Create informed hunches.
- Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act (OODA).
- Be aware of what a possible foe is capable of.
- Get trained first and foremost. The Simplilearn CompTIA Security+ Certification training is one of many top-notch IT security training courses available. The fundamentals of network security and risk management are covered in this course, which also provides practical training in threat analysis and appropriate mitigation measures.
Given the high demand for qualified professionals, any career in cyber security is likely to be lucrative. There are a number of options in this field, but working as a threat hunter is one that would make for an interesting career.
What are the most reputable organization for cybersecurity certification?
- GIAC
One of the most trustworthy companies for cybersecurity certification is GIAC. They provide a vast variety of solutions for various knowledge areas. When it comes to Threat Hunting, certifications are fairly complex, so if you decide to apply, be sure you are prepared for the challenging material.
2. GCFA
As its name implies, the GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst certificate covers digital forensics, but Threat Hunters also highly value it. It offers hands-on instruction in forensics, threat hunting, and incident response. They conduct a three-hour proctored exam at the conclusion of the session. The cutoff percentage is 72%. Overall, GCFA certification provides a wide range of analytical skills that are particular to a Threat Hunter’s job, which is why it is widely respected in the field.
3. GCTI
Threat intelligence operational, tactical, and strategic training is provided by GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence. They also impart knowledge on how to examine malware and kill chains, and artifacts. The exam only lasts two hours and has a passing score that is almost identical to the GCFA (71%). For Threat Hunters, the training provides a highly organized, scientifically based method for analyzing threat intelligence.
4. SANS
One of the most well-known suppliers of cybersecurity education is SANS Institute. But it’s also the most expensive. A self-paced online course with support, in-person events, or live online sessions are all available as learning options. Threat researchers have access to two key certifications.
- FOR608:Enterprise-class incident response and threat hunting
- FOR508:Advanced incident Response, threat hunting, and digital forensics
As you are aware, obtaining a degree in cyber threat hunting is beneficial, but it is not the only factor in determining professional success. To be able to endure the constant offensive pressure, Threat Hunters must put in a lot of effort and continuously learn new skills. The good news is that there are a ton of excellent resources and courses available online at no cost. Even while work experience is important if your function is relatively simple compared to what you hope to accomplish, use these tools to strengthen your talents.
5. Virtual Labs
To advance your Threat Hunting, you do not require a server the size of a room or pricey software. Virtual laboratories offer in-browser environments that resemble functional workstations with a variety of playable tools. Typically, they are aided by courses that direct Threat Hunters in their academic endeavors.
Choose from TryHackMe, HackTheBox, or Cybrary based on your preferences. Additionally, they won’t break the bank: a monthly subscription to HackTheBox now ranges only from $0 to $20. Cybrary offers a variety of educational possibilities, such as professional routes, genuine mentors, and many other advantages.
6. Webinars SOC Prime
After registering an account on the SOC Prime Detection as Code platform, you get immediate access to the free webinars that are included in the extensive library of security-related instructional materials in the SOC Prime Cyber Library. You can watch taped sessions for free whenever you wish. You’ll also receive invitations to forthcoming events that are exclusively available to members. If you can attend a live webinar, don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is your chance to speak with a knowledgeable expert online and get them to discuss your specific interests.
The cyber library is a comprehensive learning tool for security practitioners that enables users to watch recordings of SOC Prime’s cybersecurity online events at their own pace and instantly access “how-to” manuals for SIEM & EDR platforms. Aspiring Threat Hunters have a fantastic opportunity to refine their abilities and investigate the most recent trends in the cyber threat ecosystem with access to educational cybersecurity materials. It is quick and easy to register for the upcoming online event; lengthy sign-up forms are not necessary.
The following references will be helpful for you to start your journey as a threat hunter to get basic knowledge in this field.
References:
Bug Zero is a bug bounty, crowdsourcing platform for security testing. The platform is the intermediatory entity that enables client organizations to publish their service endpoints so that bug hunters (security researchers / ethical hackers) registered in the platform can start testing the endpoints without any upfront charge. Bug hunters can start testing as soon as a client organization publishes a new program. Bug Zero also offers private bug bounty programs for organizations with high-security requirements.
Bug Zero is available for both hackers and organizations.
For organizations and hackers, register with Bug Zero for free, and let’s make cyberspace safe.
