What is Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)?

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) are signals or evidence used to identify when a device or system might be under attack or compromised. IoCs help respond to threats quickly and efficiently, minimizing potential damage from attacks.

Types of Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

1. IP Addresses - IP addresses associated with attacks or malicious connections, such as attempts to access systems from IPs known to be used in attacks.

2. Domain Names or URLs - Domain names or URLs used in attacks, such as phishing websites or domains that have been hacked to deliver malware.

3. File Hashes - Hash values of malicious files, such as malware or files created by attackers, which help identify harmful files on a system.

4. Registry Keys - Changes or values in the system registry that might result from an attack, such as setting or adding unwanted values that indicate a breach.

5. Email Addresses - Email addresses used in phishing or email-based attacks, where attackers might send deceptive messages or malware to victims.

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How IoCs Help

• IoCs serve as indicators that a system or device has been compromised, allowing identification of breaches and triggering responses.

  
  

• When IoCs are detected, security teams can investigate, identify, and respond to threats, such as blocking connections from malicious IPs or removing malware files.

  
  

• IoCs help improve defenses by enabling timely software updates, patch installations, and system enhancements to prevent future attacks.

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How to Respond to Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Effective response to IoCs is crucial in protecting and managing threats after identifying signs of an attack. The process includes these steps

1. Detect Threats

   Use tools like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) or EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) to look for IoC-related signals, such as malicious IPs or malware hashes.

2. Verify Threat Data

   Confirm whether the detected IoC is a genuine threat by analyzing it and comparing it with threat intelligence data or other sources, such as reports from MITRE ATT&CK.

3. Isolate Affected Systems

   Disconnect compromised systems from the network to prevent further spread, such as disconnecting the affected client machines or servers.

4. Eliminate the Threat

   Remove or neutralize malware or threats, such as deleting harmful files, reversing registry changes, or using tools to secure the system.

5. Recover the System

   Restore the system to normal operation by recovering data from backups, resetting security settings, and ensuring no threats remain.

6. Report and Analyze the Attack

   Create a report on the attack, including its causes, impact, and response methods, and analyze it to provide recommendations to prevent future threats.

7. Improve and Secure the System

   Use lessons learned from responding to IoCs to enhance security, such as applying patches, updating security policies, or training teams to better prepare for future threats.

An efficient response to IoCs helps secure systems and recover from threats quickly, minimizing damage from attacks.

For inquiries about threat detection solutions, contact BMSP at marketing@bangkokmsp.com.