How can you use the STRIDE framework to identify network vulnerabilities?

STRIDE is a threat modeling framework that stands for: 1. Spoofing identity 2. Tampering with data 3. Repudiation 4. Information disclosure 5. Denial of service 6. Elevation of privilege

Imagine STRIDE as your digital detective, stealthily uncovering the shadows where security threats hidden within the network’s complex pathways. Each letter of STRIDE illuminates a different facet of vulnerability, guiding your vigilance to safeguard against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. 1. Spoofing 2. Tampering 3. Repudiation 4. Information Discloser 5. Denial of Service (DoS) 6. Elevation of Privilege

I have used the STRIDE framework as part of threat modelling throughout my career. It is a really good, systematic way to work through each area to identify potential security vulnerabilities. Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service and Elevation of Privilege.

The STRIDE framework is a useful tool for identifying network vulnerabilities by categorizing them into six main areas: Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information disclosure, Denial of Service, and Elevation of privilege. Each category represents a specific type of vulnerability. By examining the network through this framework, one can systematically evaluate potential weaknesses and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. This approach provides a comprehensive and structured method to identify and address network vulnerabilities effectively.

Stride stands for spoofing, tampering, repudiation, information disclosure, denial of service and elevation of privileges to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats to organizations systems and products. It is a threat modeling framework which is used to identify predictable threats during design phase

Employing STRIDE Framework for Threat Mitigation. System Overview: Start with a comprehensive network overview, detailing components, interactions & data flow. Threat Identification: Systematically analyse each element for potential threats using STRIDE categories. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the impact & likelihood of each identified threat to assess the associated risks. Mitigation Strategies: Develop & implement mitigation strategies to address identified vulnerabilities, considering factors like existing security controls, encryption & monitoring. Iterative Process: Repeat the process iteratively, especially when making significant changes to the network or when new threats emerge.

Threat modelling is an essential tool used to create a comprehensive Threat Universe. STRIDE is one such widely used Threat model that can help map your organizational assets to potential threat sources that could exploit a given vulnerability. However, it is important to note that STRIDE is just one part of the overall Risk Management cycle and must be used in conjunction with other threat models. In organizations where technical expertise is limited, STRIDE can be should typically be combined with DREAD, where an impact score is assigned to a given threat-vulnerability pair. It is crucial to have a holistic approach to risk management that combines various threat models to create a comprehensive threat universe.

STRIDE is a simple systematic approach to threat modeling while each letter holds a step. Threat modeling activity is done as a branch-leaf method, which means we start with a branch (i.e. network exposure, access) and eventually go deeper into sub-branches until the leaf (i.e: network exposure -> network path to which assets? -> what data is inside them? -> any sensitive information? -> sho should have access to this information? -> so on). In this process usually, teams miss some or other important steps (i.e. team found network exposure but did not run scans from an external network for reconnaissance). By following the STRIDE framework these gaps can be avoided as the team performs and records each step while brainstorming each branch.

STRIDE is an acronym that stands for Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service, and Elevation of Privilege. I would say it is a very efficient approach which helps a threat modeler like me, to identify all the potential vulnerabilities. It's a framework used to identify and analyze potential threats to a system or application. Each category represents a different type of threat that can be used to assess the security of a system. For an instance, I am taking an example for the interaction between User-Agent and Server: S: Spoofing- User may spoof his identity to compromise a system. T: Tampering- User may play with URLs and other parameters to perform attack on an application.

Whilst STRIDE does have limitiations and as mentioned, "does not tell you how likely or severe a threat is, or how much impact it will have on your network". DREAD can be used with STRIDE to help with scoring and prioritising threats. DREAD is Damage Potential, Reproducibility, Exploitability, Affected Users and Discoverability.

Furthermore, consider engaging in practical exercises to apply the STRIDE framework in real-world scenarios. Participate in capture the flag (CTF) challenges or simulation exercises that incorporate threat modeling using STRIDE. Join online forums or communities where cybersecurity professionals discuss their experiences and insights related to applying the framework. Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with peers who have hands-on experience with STRIDE, allowing you to learn from their practical applications and challenges. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical implementation, you deepen your understanding of the STRIDE framework and enhance your ability to effectively use it in diverse cybersecurity contexts.

1. Break down the network into its components, such as routers, switches, firewalls, servers, and clients. 2. Determine all possible entry points into the network, such as internet gateways, VPN connections, wireless access points, and physical access points. 3. For each STRIDE threat category, analyze the potential impact and likelihood of exploitation for each network component and entry point. 4. Based on the identified threats, develop mitigation strategies, such as implementing access controls, encryption, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and secure network configurations. 5. Regularly review and assess the network for new vulnerabilities as threats and technologies evolve.