What are the best tools and techniques for threat hunting in your network?

Effective threat hunting involves a combination of tools and techniques. I rely on Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems for real-time analysis, along with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions to monitor endpoint activity. Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) tools help identify anomalies, while Threat Intelligence platforms provide insight into emerging threats. Techniques include behavioral analysis, anomaly detection, and using machine learning to detect patterns, combined with regular manual reviews to spot advanced persistent threats (APTs).

Asset prioritization is critical to determining the direction of threat hunting operations. In this way, Active Directory, antivirus, WSUS, web server, mail server, DNS servers are examples of important assets that should be checked more carefully.

Common Techniques and Tools for productive threat hunting are: ? Ti-driven hunting utilizes the current threats and attacker behaviors ? NTA monitors the network traffic patterns to identify anomalies ? EDR involves collecting data from endpoints to detect and investigate ? UEBA analyzes the behavior of users and entities to find deviations from the norm Static Analysis and Sandbox Analysis of Malware ? Examples of threat-hunting tools: SIEM, NDR, TI Platforms, Packet Sniffer Tools, OSINT Choosing the appropriate tools and techniques comprises: Understand your risk profile for the technique's applicability Larger networks require more sophisticated and complex tools Depends on the skill set of your security team

The first step in threat hunting is to ensure a thorough understanding of your network environment. This involves identifying all assets, users, services, protocols, and data flows. Utilizing tools like network scanners and vulnerability scanners aids in gathering and analyzing this data. Establishing a baseline of normal behavior enables the detection of anomalies that may indicate a compromise. With this knowledge, threat hunters can effectively identify and mitigate potential security threats before they escalate.

SIEM Tools: Use tools like Splunk or Elastic SIEM to collect and analyze logs from different parts of your network, helping spot suspicious activities. Endpoint Protection: Install software like CrowdStrike Falcon or Carbon Black on your computers to monitor for signs of malware or unusual behavior. Network Traffic Monitoring: Tools such as Wireshark or Zeek watch network traffic for anything out of the ordinary, which could signal an attack. Threat Intelligence: Subscribe to threat intelligence services for updates on known threats and malware signatures, helping you stay ahead of potential attacks.

Do not always apply the trending and default approach to hunt , should be different hunt with different adversial tactic and technique every time and think like a attacker and execute the hunting in same way to detect in dwell time

In threat hunting, formulating hypotheses is essential to guide the search for potential threats within the network. Drawing from threat reports, indicators of compromise, logs, and historical data helps in generating these hypotheses. Frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK, Cyber Kill Chain, and the Diamond Model provide structured approaches to categorize potential attacker tactics, techniques, and procedures. By leveraging intelligence sources and frameworks, threat hunters can develop targeted hypotheses that focus on specific threat scenarios, enabling more effective detection and response to potential security incidents.

First, brainstorm possible threats to your organization using your knowledge of the environment and various sources like threat intelligence. These threats could be anything from common malware to advanced attacks. Next, turn these ideas into specific hypotheses that you can test with data and analysis. Make sure your hypotheses are clear, measurable, and actionable. Then, prioritize your focus based on the likelihood and potential impact of each hypothesis. Concentrate on the ones that could cause the most harm if they're real. Lastly, remember that this process is ongoing. Keep updating and refining your hypotheses as new threats emerge or changes happen in your network. This ensures your approach stays effective over time.

After formulating hypotheses, the next step in threat hunting is to collect and analyze data to test them and uncover evidence of malicious activity. Utilizing tools like network traffic analyzers, endpoint detection and response systems, and security information and event management systems enables the capture and examination of data from various network sources. Employing techniques such as filtering, correlation, aggregation, and visualization helps to sift through data noise and pinpoint relevant signals indicative of potential threats. This thorough analysis allows threat hunters to validate hypotheses and identify suspicious activities that may indicate a security breach.

Take appropriate actions based on the severity and nature of the identified threats. This may include containment measures to prevent further spread, eradication of the threat actors from the environment, and implementing security controls or patches to mitigate vulnerabilities. Additionally, it's crucial to continuously monitor the environment and update defenses to prevent similar incidents in the future.