Adversary Models and Frameworks
Adversary models and frameworks are structured approaches used in cyber threat intelligence to understand and analyze the behavior, motivations, and tactics of threat actors. These models help security professionals and analysts categorize and assess potential threats, enabling more effective defense strategies. Here are some commonly used adversary models and frameworks:
Cyber Kill Chain: Developed by Lockheed Martin, the Cyber Kill Chain model describes the various phases involved in a cyber attack, from reconnaissance to achieving the adversary's objectives. It includes stages such as weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, command and control, and actions on objectives. This model helps organizations identify and mitigate threats at different stages of an attack.
MITRE ATT&CK Framework: The ATT&CK (Adversarial Tactics, Techniques, and Common Knowledge) framework is a comprehensive knowledge base of adversary tactics and techniques based on real-world observations. It categorizes adversary behavior into tactics like initial access, execution, persistence, and exfiltration, and provides a detailed matrix of techniques used by various threat groups.
Diamond Model: The Diamond Model is a framework for analyzing and describing the core features of cyber threat incidents. It consists of four components: adversary (who is behind the attack), capability (tools and techniques used), infrastructure (systems and networks involved), and victim (the target). This model helps in structuring threat intelligence and understanding the relationships between different elements of an attack.
Pyramid of Pain: The Pyramid of Pain is a concept developed by David Bianco, which ranks different types of indicators based on their level of difficulty for an adversary to change. At the base of the pyramid are easily changeable indicators like IP addresses, while the upper levels include more persistent indicators like tools, tactics, and the adversary's strategic goals, which are harder to modify.
Cyber Attack Lifecycle: Similar to the Cyber Kill Chain, the Cyber Attack Lifecycle model describes the various stages of a cyber attack, including reconnaissance, weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, command and control, and actions on objectives. This model helps in understanding the progression of an attack and identifying potential intervention points.
Intelligence Preparation of the Operational Environment (IPOE): IPOE is a framework used by military and intelligence organizations to understand the operational environment, including potential adversaries, their capabilities, and the overall threat landscape. It involves gathering and analyzing information from various sources to support decision-making and operational planning.
These adversary models and frameworks provide structured approaches to understanding and analyzing cyber threats, enabling organizations to better anticipate and defend against potential attacks. They also facilitate communication and collaboration among security teams, analysts, and stakeholders by establishing a common language and framework for discussing and addressing cyber threats.
Last updated