What are some best practices for malware analysis documentation and reporting?

2 Follow a consistent methodology

Malware analysis can be performed using different techniques, such as static analysis, dynamic analysis, code analysis, and memory analysis. Depending on the complexity and sophistication of the malware, you may need to use a combination of these techniques to get a comprehensive picture of its behavior and functionality. However, regardless of the techniques you use, you should follow a consistent and systematic methodology that covers the following steps: preparation, observation, interpretation, and validation. You should also document the tools, settings, and environment you use for each step, such as the malware analysis tools, virtual machines, debuggers, and network traffic monitors.

3 Record and organize your findings

As you perform your analysis, you should record and organize your findings in a clear and concise manner. You should document the evidence, observations, and conclusions you make, as well as the steps and commands you execute. You should also use screenshots, diagrams, tables, and code snippets to illustrate your points and support your arguments. You should organize your findings in a logical and coherent structure that follows the methodology and objectives of your analysis. You should also use labels, headings, and references to make your documentation easy to navigate and understand.

4 Analyze and report the impact and risk

One of the main goals of malware analysis is to assess the impact and risk of the malware on the target system, network, or organization. You should analyze and report the following aspects of the malware: its purpose, functionality, persistence, stealth, evasion, communication, infection, propagation, and damage. You should also identify and report any indicators of compromise (IOCs), such as file names, registry keys, network signatures, and domain names, that can be used to detect and remove the malware. You should also provide recommendations and mitigation strategies to prevent or reduce the impact and risk of the malware.

5 Review and revise your documentation and reporting

Before you finalize and share your documentation and reporting, you should review and revise them to ensure their accuracy, completeness, and clarity. You should check for any errors, inconsistencies, or gaps in your data, analysis, or presentation. You should also ensure that your documentation and reporting follow the standards and guidelines of your organization or industry, such as the format, style, and terminology. You should also seek feedback and input from your peers, supervisors, or clients, and incorporate any suggestions or corrections they may have.

6 Share and communicate your documentation and reporting

Finally, you should share and communicate your documentation and reporting with the relevant stakeholders, such as your team, management, or client. You should choose the appropriate medium and format for your communication, such as a report, a presentation, or a dashboard. You should also tailor your communication to suit the needs and expectations of your audience, such as their level of technical knowledge, interest, and involvement. You should also highlight the key findings, conclusions, and recommendations of your analysis, and explain their implications and value for the stakeholder.