In the complex world of cybersecurity, having a comprehensive and actionable framework is crucial. The MITRE ATT&CK (Adversarial Tactics, Techniques, and Common Knowledge) framework is a widely adopted tool that outlines and categorizes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used in cyberattacks. This framework provides security professionals with insights and context that can help them comprehend, identify, and mitigate cyber threats effectively.
Understanding the MITRE ATT&CK Framework
The MITRE ATT&CK framework is organized in a dynamic matrix, providing a holistic view of the entire spectrum of adversary behaviors. This makes the framework more actionable and usable than if it were a static list. However, it’s important to understand that the knowledge provided in the MITRE ATT&CK framework is derived from real-world evidence of attackers’ behaviors, making it susceptible to certain biases that security professionals should be aware of. These biases include novelty bias, visibility bias, producer bias, victim bias, and availability bias.
Applying the MITRE ATT&CK Framework
The MITRE ATT&CK framework helps security professionals research and analyze various attacks and procedures. This can help with threat intelligence, detection and analytics, simulations, and assessment and engineering. The MITRE ATT&CK Navigator is a tool that can help explore and visualize the matrix, enhancing the analysis for defensive coverage, security planning, technique frequency, and more.
Use Cases of the MITRE ATT&CK Framework
There are several ways the framework and the Navigator can be used:
- Threat Actor Analysis: Security professionals can leverage MITRE ATT&CK to investigate specific threat actors. They can drill down into the matrix and learn which techniques are used by different actors, how they are executed, which tools they use, etc. This information helps investigate certain attacks and expands the researchers’ knowledge and way of thinking by introducing them to additional modes of operation attackers take.
- Multiple Threat Actor Analysis: Apart from researching specific actors, the MITRE ATT&CK framework also allows analyzing multiple threat actors. This can be used to identify common tactics used by a number of nation-state actors.
- Gap Analysis: The MITRE ATT&CK framework also helps analyze existing gaps in defenses. This enables defenders to identify, visualize and sort which ones the organization does not have coverage for.
- Atomic Testing: The Atomic Red Team is an open source library of tests mapped to the MITRE ATT&CK framework. These tests can be used for testing your infrastructure and systems based on the framework, to help identify and mitigate coverage gaps.
The MITRE CTID (Center for Threat-Informed Defense)
The MITRE CTID is an R&D center, funded by private entities, that collaborates with both private sector organizations and nonprofits. Their objective is to revolutionize the approach to adversaries through resource pooling and emphasizing proactive incident response rather than reactive measures. A significant initiative within this context is the “Attack Flow” project. Attack Flow uses a new language and tools to describe the flow of ATT&CK techniques. These techniques are then combined into patterns of behavior. This approach enables defenders and leaders to gain a deeper understanding of how adversaries operate, so they can refine their strategies accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MITRE ATT&CK framework is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. By understanding and applying the framework, security professionals can gain a deeper understanding of cyber threats, identify gaps in their defenses, and develop more effective strategies to mitigate these threats.