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Threat Intelligence Manual
  • Introduction
  • Contents
  • Module 1: Introduction to Cyber Threat Intelligence
    • Definition and Importance of CTI
    • Threat Intelligence Lifecycle
    • Key Concepts: Indicators, TTPs, IOCs and More
    • Role of CTI in Cybersecurity
  • Module 2: Data Sources and Collection
    • Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Sources
    • Technical Intelligence (TECHINT) Sources
    • Human Intelligence (HUMINT) Sources
    • Data Collection Techniques and Tools
    • Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • Module 3: Data Processing and Analysis
    • Structuring and Enriching Threat Intelligence Data
    • Indicator Analysis Techniques
    • Malware Analysis Fundamentals
    • Network and Host Artifact Analysis
    • Data Mining and Machine Learning for Threat Analysis
  • Module 4: Threat Modeling and Actor Profiling
    • Adversary Models and Frameworks
    • Tactics, Techniques and Procedures
    • Threat Actor Groups and Motivations
    • Attack Vector Analysis
  • Module 5: Cyber Threat Intelligence Analytics
    • Structured and Unstructured Data Analysis
    • Statistical and Visualization Techniques
    • Reporting and Presentation of Findings
  • Module 6: Threat Intelligence Sharing
    • Standards and Frameworks
    • Threat Intelligence Platforms and Tools
    • Information Sharing Communities
    • Trust Groups and Sharing Protocols
  • Module 7: Building a CTI Program
    • Developing a CTI Strategy and Roadmap
    • Roles and Responsibilities in a CTI Team
    • Integration with Security Operations
    • Measuring CTI Effectiveness and Metrics
  • Module 8: Operationalizing CTI
    • CTI Program Maturity Assessment
    • CTI Workflow Automation and Orchestration
    • CTI Playbooks and Runbooks
    • CTI-driven Threat Hunting Exercises
    • CTI Integration with Security Tools and Systems
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  1. Module 2: Data Sources and Collection

Human Intelligence (HUMINT) Sources

HUMINT refers to the collection of intelligence from human sources, such as experts, insiders, or individuals with specific knowledge or access to relevant information. In the context of cyber threat intelligence, HUMINT can provide valuable insights and context that may not be readily available from technical or open sources.

Here are some common HUMINT sources for cyber threat intelligence:

  1. Industry Experts and Analysts: Engaging with industry experts, security researchers, and experienced analysts can provide valuable insights into emerging threats, adversary tactics, and potential implications. These experts can offer their knowledge and perspectives based on their experience and analysis.

  2. Former Threat Actors or Insiders: In some cases, former members of threat actor groups or insiders from organizations that have been targeted can provide first-hand accounts and details about the motivations, methods, and operations of these groups. However, working with such sources requires careful vetting and adherence to legal and ethical guidelines.

  3. Cybersecurity Conferences and Meetings: Attending conferences, workshops, and meetings focused on cybersecurity and threat intelligence can provide opportunities to network and interact with experts, researchers, and practitioners. These events often facilitate information sharing and discussions about current and emerging threats.

  4. Interviews and Debriefings: Conducting interviews or debriefings with individuals who have been involved in or affected by cyber incidents can provide valuable first-hand accounts and contextual information related to the threats and attack vectors used.

  5. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs): Engaging with SMEs who have specialized knowledge or expertise in specific domains, industries, or technologies can offer insights into potential vulnerabilities, attack surfaces, and threat vectors unique to those areas.

  6. Law Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies: Collaborating with law enforcement agencies, national cybersecurity centers, or intelligence organizations can provide access to their expertise, investigations, and intelligence related to cyber threats and threat actors.

When utilizing HUMINT sources, it's crucial to establish trust and maintain strict confidentiality and security measures to protect the sources and the information they provide. Additionally, ethical and legal considerations, such as privacy and consent, must be carefully addressed.

HUMINT can complement and enrich technical and open-source intelligence, providing context, motivations, and insights that may not be readily available from other sources. However, it's important to corroborate and validate HUMINT data with other intelligence sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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Last updated 1 year ago