Cybersecurity Incident Response Phases

Of all of the varied duties that I have had over the years in cyber-security, cyber incident response was by far my favorite.  (Although turning wrenches on Navy fighter jet aircraft is still the best job I ever had - but that is another story). Cyber threats have become a persistent risk for organizations around the globe. It is not a matter of if but when a cyber incident will occur. To effectively respond to these incidents, organizations must follow a structured and well-defined cyber incident response plan. This plan should include key phases: Preparation, Identification, Containment, Eradication, Recover, and Lessons Learned. As discussed in a previous article, incident responders might be a part of an organization's cyber-security "Blue Team" and is the team that performs part of the Defensive Security" activities.  

One thing to note here is that depending on the organization and which standards they are adhering to, there will be some variations in the phases of cyber-security incident response.  In my research, many descriptions of incident response leave out the "Lessons Learned" phase, which I will discuss in this article.  In my experience as an incident responder, I found the lessons learned documentation to be a valuable step in truly fixing the problems that caused an incident and helping to prevent future incidents.  While the incident response phases may go by different names, the overall process is the same.

The Cyber Incident Response Phases:

Preparation: Every incident response plan starts with having a written plan and set of standard operating procedures.  The incident response team of incident responders must be prepared and well trained.  The certifications section below will help identify some of the common certifications held by cyber incident responders.

Identification: The next phase is Identification, also known as Detection, which entails identifying and analyzing potential cyber incidents. This can be accomplished through various means, such as intrusion detection systems, firewall logs, security information and event management (SIEM) tools, and user reporting.  Prepare to look through a lot of log files in this phase!  On my team, we often referred to this as finding a needle in a haystack, or even finding a specific needle in another stack of needles.  The goal is to identify any anomalies or suspicious activities that may indicate a cyber incident. Timely detection is crucial as it allows organizations to quickly respond and minimize the impact of the incident.

Once an incident is detected, the Analyze activities are initiated. This part of the phase involves gathering and analyzing information related to the incident. It is important to understand the nature and scope of the incident, including the affected systems, data compromised, and the attacker's techniques. This analysis helps organizations make informed decisions and determine the appropriate response strategy.

Containment: The Containment phase focuses on "stopping the bleeding" and preventing further damage and limiting the spread of the incident. This often involves isolating affected systems from the network, disconnecting compromised accounts, and implementing temporary measures to mitigate the impact. The primary goal is to minimize the attacker's ability to maintain control over the compromised systems and prevent the incident from escalating.

Eradication: After containing the incident, the Eradicate phase begins. This phase involves identifying and removing the attacker's presence from the network. It may include activities such as patching vulnerabilities, updating security controls, and removing malicious code. It is crucial to thoroughly investigate the incident to ensure that all traces of the attacker are eradicated, preventing any possibility of reoccurrence.

Recovery: The next phase is Recovery, where organizations restore normal operations and systems affected during the incident. This may involve rebuilding compromised systems, restoring backup data, and implementing enhanced security measures. Additionally, it is essential to conduct lessons learned sessions to identify areas of improvement and strengthen the organization's overall security posture for the future.

Lessons Learned: The incident response lessons learned phase is an integral part of the overall incident response process and is the most important phase in my humble opinion. It occurs after an incident has been resolved and involves analyzing the incident to identify key lessons and improve future incident response efforts.  This phase ties back into the preparation phase and can help to prevent future occurrences of incidents. Here are the key aspects of this phase:

• Incident debriefing: All individuals involved in the incident response process gather to discuss the incident in detail. This includes incident responders, technical staff, management, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Documentation: The incident details, incident response actions, and all relevant information are documented thoroughly. This documentation helps in the analysis and future reference.
• Analysis of the incident response process: The incident response team reviews the response process and identifies areas of improvement. They assess whether the incident response plan was followed correctly, if any delays or errors occurred, and if there were any gaps in the response capabilities.
• Root cause analysis: The incident is analyzed to determine the root cause or causes. This involves examining the underlying issues, vulnerabilities, or mistakes that led to the incident occurrence.
• Identifying lessons learned: The insights gained from the incident are translated into actionable lessons learned. This covers process improvements, technical changes, training needs, and overall organizational changes required to strengthen the incident response capabilities.
• Updating incident response plans: The recorded lessons learned are used to update and enhance the organization's incident response plans, policies, and procedures. This ensures that future incidents can be handled more effectively and with greater efficiency.
• Training and communication: The lessons learned from the incident are communicated throughout the organization and incorporated into training programs for employees. This ensures that the incident response knowledge is disseminated, and the organization becomes better prepared to handle similar incidents in the future.

The incident response lessons learned phase is essential for organizations to continually refine and improve their incident response capabilities, thereby minimizing the impact and potential for future incidents.

Team Collaboration:

Throughout the entire incident response process, effective communication and collaboration are vital. Cyber incident response teams should collaborate with various stakeholders, including IT staff, legal counsel, executive management, and external parties such as law enforcement or regulatory bodies.  Some of the incidents that my team handled, for example, involved collaboration with the FBI and Homeland Security due to their severity!  Clear lines of communication ensure that all relevant information is shared, critical decisions are made promptly, and resources are allocated effectively.

Cyber Incident Responder Certifications:

A cybersecurity incident responder typically needs the following certifications:

Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): This certification focuses on detecting, responding to, and managing cybersecurity incidents, including analyzing root causes and investigating real-world scenarios.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification provides knowledge of hacking techniques, allowing incident responders to understand how hackers operate, detect vulnerabilities, and remediate compromised systems.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): CISSP is a comprehensive certification that covers various domains of cybersecurity, including incident response. It validates an individual's knowledge in developing, managing, and supporting security and response procedures.

EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH): This certification focuses specifically on incident handling and response methodologies, allowing responders to effectively manage and mitigate security incidents.

Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE): This certification provides the skills required to collect, analyze, and maintain digital evidence for incident response or forensic investigations.

GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): This certification focuses on incident handling techniques and effective response methodologies to detect, respond to, and recover from security incidents.

Additionally, certifications from vendors, such as Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate, may be relevant depending on the technology stack used by an organization. Integrating specialized certifications further enhances an incident responder's capabilities.

Wrapping It All Up:

Cyber incidents are an unfortunate reality in today's digital landscape. Organizations must be prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to minimize their impact. Following a structured cyber incident response plan that includes the phases of Detect, Analyze, Contain, Eradicate, and Recover is crucial. By adhering to these phases, organizations can effectively manage and mitigate cyber incidents, ultimately safeguarding their business and sensitive data.

Cyber Incident Response Resources:

• NIST Computer Security Incident Handling Guide:  https://csrc.nist.gov/pubs/sp/800/61/r2/final
• SANS Incident Handler's Handbook:  https://www.sans.org/white-papers/33901/
• CISA Cyber Incident Response:  https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/services/cyber-incident-response
• National Cyber Incident Response Plan:  https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/national-cyber-incident-response-plan-ncirp

Author's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy.

The CyberSecurity "Blue Team" (Defensive Security)

In a previous article, I gave an overview of cybersecurity risk assessments, and a high-level description of the activities that take place.   Then last week, I discussed the "Red Team" and how Offensive Security is used to help secure the environment.  In this article, I will be discussing the "Blue Team" activities, and how organizations can take those findings from the red team to prioritize risk, fix weaknesses found, and be more proactive with security activities.

In today's interconnected world, where businesses and individuals heavily rely on computer networks and internet-based communication, the threat of cyber-attacks has become more prevalent than ever. As a result, organizations and individuals need to have a strong defense system in place to protect their valuable data and resources from malicious hackers. This is where the role of the cybersecurity blue team comes into play.

The term "Blue Team" refers to the group of cybersecurity professionals assigned to proactively protect an organization's information technology infrastructure. Blue teams work in harmony with the "red team" or "ethical hackers" who simulate cyber-attacks to identify vulnerabilities in the system. This cooperative engagement allows the blue team to identify and fix vulnerabilities, creating a robust defense system against potential cyber-attacks.  And while red teams are often not part of the organization but rather contracted in to do their work as objective third-parties, blue team members are usually part of the organization itself and are responsible for such things as ensuring all the security and continuous monitoring documentation is up to date.

The primary objective of the blue team is to safeguard the organization's networks, systems, and data by monitoring, detecting, and responding to potential threats. They are responsible for conducting regular security assessments, implementing security measures, and developing incident response plans to swiftly address any security breaches. Blue teams also play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with industry-specific regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

One of the key functions of the blue team is continuous monitoring. They employ various cybersecurity tools and techniques to monitor network traffic, analyze system logs, and detect any suspicious activities. Through this vigilant monitoring, they can identify unauthorized access attempts, malware infections, or any anomalies in the system, allowing them to take immediate action to neutralize the threat.

Another critical role of the blue team is incident response. In the event of a cybersecurity incident or breach, the blue team is responsible for investigating the incident, minimizing the impact, and restoring the system's integrity. They work closely with other departments, such as legal, public relations, and IT support, to ensure an effective and coordinated response to the incident. The blue team also conducts a post-incident analysis to identify the root cause of the breach and implement preventive measures.

The blue team also focuses on proactive measures to enhance the overall security posture of the organization. This includes implementing security controls, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, to mitigate potential vulnerabilities. They also conduct regular security assessments, including vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, to identify any weaknesses that could be exploited by hackers. By continuously evaluating and improving the security infrastructure, the blue team helps reduce the likelihood and impact of cyber-attacks.

Training and education are crucial for the blue team to stay at the forefront of the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. They must keep abreast of the latest threats, trends, and technological advancements in the field. By attending conferences, participating in industry forums, and obtaining certifications, blue team members acquire the knowledge and skills needed to effectively protect the organization's assets.

Types of Professional Development Activities for Blue Team Members:

A cybersecurity blue team member typically has access to a variety of training resources to develop their skills and keep up with the constantly evolving threat landscape. Some common training resources for blue team members include:

Security Certifications: Certifications like CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) provide comprehensive training and recognition of expertise in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Training Courses: Several organizations offer training courses specific to blue team members, covering topics such as network security, incident response, vulnerability management, data protection, and threat intelligence.

Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Pluralsight offer a wide range of cybersecurity courses and tutorials, covering various aspects of blue team operations, network defense, security monitoring, and incident response.

Virtual Labs: Virtual labs allow blue team members to practice their skills within simulated environments. Platforms like CyberRange and Virtual Hacking Labs provide hands-on training scenarios, allowing blue team members to test and enhance their skills in a safe and controlled space.

Vendor-Specific Training: Many cybersecurity product vendors offer training and certifications specific to their products. Blue team members often receive training on using specific security tools for threat detection, analysis, and incident response.

Threat Intelligence Feeds: Blue team members regularly access threat intelligence feeds, which provide information on latest threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques. These feeds help blue team members stay updated and understand the kinds of attacks they might face.

Security Blogs and Forums: Participating in cybersecurity blogs, forums, and communities provides an opportunity for blue team members to learn from peers, get insights into real-world challenges, and stay updated with the latest trends and best practices.

Conferences and Events: Attending cybersecurity conferences and events offer blue team members a chance to hear from industry experts, attend training sessions, and network with other professionals. Examples include DEF CON, RSA Conference, and Black Hat.

Books and Publications: Numerous books and publications cover various cybersecurity topics relevant to blue team members. These resources often provide in-depth knowledge and insights into specific areas of cybersecurity defense strategies, threat detection, and incident response techniques.

Hands-on Experience: Ultimately, blue team members gain a significant portion of their training through hands-on experience in their day-to-day work. Dealing with real-world incidents, conducting security assessments, and collaborating with colleagues help blue team members develop practical skills and adapt to new challenges.

Blue Team Certifications:

A cybersecurity blue team member typically holds various certifications, including, but not limited to:

CompTIA Security+: This certification covers essential cybersecurity concepts, network security, and risk management principles.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A globally recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise in information security and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity domains.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): This certification focuses on managing and overseeing information security systems within an organization.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification provides knowledge about malicious hacking techniques and tools to identify and rectify vulnerabilities within systems.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): A certification that evaluates an individual's proficiency in auditing, controlling, monitoring, and assessing information systems' security and their related business processes.

GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): This certification covers various concepts in networking and information security, providing foundational knowledge for cybersecurity professionals.

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): This certification emphasizes hands-on penetration testing skills and demonstrates proficiency in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems.

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): This certification validates expertise in cloud security, ensuring that a blue team member can implement and manage cybersecurity controls in cloud environments.

Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): This certification focuses on the skills required to effectively respond to and manage incidents, including incident handling, response methodologies, and advanced hacking techniques.

It is important to note that the specific certifications required for a blue team member may vary depending on the organization, industry, and job role.

Wrapping It All Up:

The blue team plays a vital role in cybersecurity by proactively defending organizations against cyber-attacks. With their continuous monitoring, incident response capabilities, and proactive measures, they help maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information technology resources. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, the blue team remains a key component of any organization's cybersecurity strategy.  As I mentioned with Red Team members, professional development activities are an ongoing endeavor because the threat landscape and technologies are quickly evolving.  Security controls published by the National Institute of Technologies (NIST) are updated frequently, which then causes things like the Risk Management Framework, ISO 27000, CIS, and other security standards to be updated frequently as well.

For More Information:

• NIST Computer Security Resource Center: https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/Blue_Team
• TechTarget: https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/tip/Red-team-vs-blue-team-vs-purple-team-Whats-the-difference
• Threat Intelligence Blog: https://www.threatintelligence.com/blog/red-team-vs-blue-team
• SPLUNK Blog: https://www.splunk.com/en_us/blog/learn/red-team-vs-blue-team.html
• CrowdStrike: https://www.crowdstrike.com/cybersecurity-101/red-team-vs-blue-team/

Author's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy.

The CyberSecurity "Red Team" (Offensive Security)

In a previous article, I gave an overview of cybersecurity risk assessments, and a high-level description of the activities that take place.  In this article, which will be part of a series of articles, I wanted to spend some time specifically discussing the "Red Team" activities, and how organizations can use these teams to find their weaknesses, so that the "Blue Team," which I will discuss in a later article, can take those findings to provide greater protection for the organization, its data, and its customers.

In the era of advanced technology, the threat of cyberattacks is increasingly prevalent. Companies and organizations across all industries are constantly at risk of falling victim to cybercriminals. This is where the concept of a cybersecurity "Red Team" comes into play. In this article, I will explore what a red team is, how it differs from a blue team, and the importance of incorporating a red team into your cybersecurity strategy.

A red team is a group of cybersecurity professionals who are tasked with conducting simulated cyberattacks on an organization's systems and networks. Their objective is to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the organization's defenses, which can then be addressed and resolved to enhance security. The red team operates from an offensive standpoint, acting as the "enemy" trying to infiltrate defenses and exploit vulnerabilities.

On the other hand, a blue team is responsible for defending against these attacks. They oversee maintaining the organization's security systems, responding to incidents and breaches, and developing strategies to enhance overall cybersecurity. The blue team's role is proactive, constantly working to fortify defenses and protect against potential threats.  In a future article, I will go into more depth on blue team activities.

The red team approach provides a unique perspective that complements the efforts of the blue team. By simulating real-world attacks, the red team can identify vulnerabilities that may be missed by the blue team. This allows organizations to address weaknesses and potential blind spots in their defense systems, preventing actual cyberattacks in the future.

The benefits of incorporating a red team into your cybersecurity strategy are numerous. Firstly, it allows organizations to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals by actively searching for vulnerabilities within their systems. By conducting regular red team exercises, organizations can proactively identify and address potential cybersecurity threats before malicious actors can exploit them.

Secondly, a red team helps organizations test their incident response plan. Cyberattacks are inevitable, regardless of the preventive measures in place. In the event of an actual breach, a well-prepared incident response plan is crucial. The red team can challenge existing incident response protocols, identify gaps, and help refine the organization's response to a cybersecurity incident.

And finally, a red team approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement within an organization. By regularly assessing and testing their defenses, organizations can enhance their cybersecurity posture over time. This ensures that the organization stays up to date with emerging threats and adapts its security measures accordingly.

Types of Professional Development Activities for Red Team Members:

A cybersecurity red team member has access to a variety of training resources, including:

Hands-on Practical Training: This involves real-world simulations and exercises where red team members can practice their skills and techniques. They may work on replicating attacks, conducting penetration testing, or performing vulnerability assessments.

Cybersecurity Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Red Team Operator (CRTOP) can provide standardized knowledge and validate the skills of red team members.

Online courses and tutorials: There are various online platforms like Cybrary, Udemy, or Coursera that offer specialized courses on red teaming, ethical hacking, penetration testing, and other related topics. These courses provide structured learning materials and assessments.

Capture the Flag (CTF) Competitions: Red team members often participate in CTF competitions held by cybersecurity communities and organizations. These competitions involve solving challenges and puzzles, simulating real-world attack scenarios. They help sharpen skills by providing experience in a controlled environment.

Industry Conferences and Seminars: Red team members can attend cybersecurity conferences, workshops, and seminars, where they can learn from experts, network with peers, and stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the field.

Books and Publications: The cybersecurity field has numerous books, journals, and online publications that cover various aspects of red teaming. These resources provide in-depth knowledge, case studies, and insights into attack methodologies.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Red team members actively participate in forums, online communities, and social media groups where they share knowledge, exchange ideas, and learn from others. This collaboration helps in staying updated and gaining insights into different approaches and perspectives.

Internal Team Training: Organizations with dedicated red teams often conduct internal training sessions and workshops to share knowledge, discuss attack strategies and techniques, and educate the team about relevant tools and technologies.

It's important to note that the specific training resources available to a red team member may vary depending on their organization, budget, and individual preferences.

Red Team Certifications:

A cybersecurity red team member typically has a combination of technical certifications and qualifications related to offensive security, penetration testing, and general cybersecurity. These certifications may include:

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification validates the skills and knowledge required to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in computer systems using ethical hacking techniques.

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): It is a practical certification that demonstrates the ability to conduct penetration testing and exploit vulnerabilities.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This is a widely recognized certification for information security professionals, covering various domains including network security, access control, encryption, and more.

Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (CPTE): This certification focuses on the knowledge and skills required to perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments.

GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN): Given by the Global Information Assurance Certification, this certification confirms the ability to identify and exploit network vulnerabilities.

Certified Red Team Operator (CRTOP): A newer certification offered by Offensive Security; it focuses specifically on the skills needed to be successful in red team engagements.

Certified Wireless Security Professional (CWSP): Pertaining to wireless network security, this certification demonstrates expertise in securing Wi-Fi networks and related technologies.

These are some of the common certifications held by cybersecurity red team members, but there may be additional certifications that vary based on the specific requirements and expertise of the individual or organization.

Wrapping It All Up:

Cybersecurity is a priority for organizations in today's digital landscape. While blue teams focus on prevention and defense, red teams play a crucial role in identifying vulnerabilities and improving overall security posture. By incorporating a red team into your cybersecurity strategy, organizations can proactively identify weaknesses, test their response plans, and stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.  Training, certifications, and professional development will be constant activities pursued by the red team professional, as the technologies and threats evolve constantly.  In this ongoing battle against cyberattacks, having a strong red team is essential to protect sensitive data, maintain business continuity, and safeguard the reputation of your organization.

Other Red Team Training Resources:

• OSCP from Offensive Security: https://www.offensive-security.com/
• GO by example: https://gobyexample.com/
• Hack The Box - HTB Academy: https://davidbombal.wiki/htbacademy
• Hack The Box - HTB: https://davidbombal.wiki/htb
• Try Hack Me: https://tryhackme.com/
• Pico CTF: https://picoctf.org/

Author's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy.

Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) - What Is It?

I was recently doing some research to reconnect and stay current with some investigative techniques that I used when I was doing cybersecurity incident response.  I miss those days of almost literally looking for a needle in a haystack.  The inquisitive nature of incident response is something that I enjoyed back in the day.

One of the more prominent investigative techniques that I kept running across recently is called OSINT, or Open-Source Intelligence.  So, I took a little detour and looked into it further to see what implications these techniques would have in cybersecurity incident investigations. While OSINT can be used for cyber investigations, it is also primarily used for doing other types of investigations such as those performed by private investigators and law enforcement.  But the thing that intrigued me most is the potential application to cybersecurity Red Team activities to help find vulnerabilities to the corporate footprint, people, and particularly the leadership of an organization in order to better secure the environment. 

DISCLAIMER: Always use what you learn about these types of investigative resources and methods for good, not evil.  Be sure to check the legalities of using these types of investigative methods where you live.  Our goal as cyber investigators is to never do harm but find answers to problems and better ways to secure our people and resources.

Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) refers to the collection and analysis of information that is publicly available to generate intelligence and insights. It involves gathering information from open sources such as websites, social media platforms, news articles, government documents, and other publicly accessible resources. OSINT can encompass various disciplines, including data mining, web scraping, social media analysis, and more. It is widely used in fields such as cyber-security, military intelligence, law enforcement, corporate security, and journalism, among others, to gain a better understanding of a particular subject, organization, or individual.

OSINT, or Open-Source Intelligence, is a powerful tool that has revolutionized information gathering in recent years. It refers to collecting and analyzing data from publicly available sources to extract valuable insights and intelligence. With the advent of the Internet and social media platforms, OSINT has become increasingly important in various sectors, including cybersecurity, law enforcement, journalism, and national security.

One of the key benefits of OSINT is its accessibility. Unlike traditional intelligence gathering methods that often require specialized skills and resources, OSINT allows anyone with the right knowledge and tools to access a vast amount of information online. From news articles and social media posts to government reports and academic papers, the sources are endless and readily available to the public.

Moreover, OSINT provides a multidimensional view of a subject by aggregating information from multiple sources. By combining data from different platforms, OSINT analysts can create a comprehensive picture and gain deeper insights into various aspects. For example, in a cybersecurity context, OSINT can help identify potential vulnerabilities in a network by collecting and analyzing information about the organization's digital footprint and online activities.

OSINT is not limited to digital platforms either. It also encompasses traditional sources like public records, media archives, and even human intelligence. Researchers can leverage public records to access legal documents, business registrations, or property ownership records. By cross-referencing information from diverse sources, OSINT analysts can uncover hidden connections or patterns that may not be apparent otherwise.

While OSINT offers immense potential, it also comes with challenges. The abundance of information online can make it overwhelming for analysts to sift through and determine its veracity. There is also the risk of encountering misleading or false information, leading to inaccurate intelligence.

To tackle these challenges, it is essential for OSINT analysts to develop strong critical thinking skills and utilize reliable tools and techniques. They need to verify the credibility of sources, evaluate information for bias or misinformation, and corroborate findings from multiple sources. Additionally, staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the field is crucial to ensure effective utilization of OSINT.

OSINT has become an indispensable tool in today's digital age. Its ability to collect, analyze, and interpret information from publicly available sources offers immense value in various domains. However, users must be cautious and employ critical thinking skills to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the intelligence derived from OSINT.  One last thing I'll leave you with is the notion that knowing how OSINT is done will give you some tips on how to keep yourself and your family safe.

OSINT Resources:

• TraceLabs OSINT VM: https://www.tracelabs.org/initiatives/osint-vm
• Kali Linux:  https://www.kali.org/
• Udemy: OSINT: Open Source Intelligence Course:  https://www.udemy.com/course/osint-open-source-intelligence/
• PublicWWW: https://publicwww.com/
• Shodan: https://www.shodan.io/
• Foca: https://github.com/ElevenPaths/FOCA
• Maltego: https://www.maltego.com/
• ZoomEye: https://www.zoomeye.org/
• Censys: https://censys.io/
• Recon-ng: https://github.com/lanmaster53/recon-ng
• theHarvester: https://github.com/laramies/theHarvester
• IntelTechniques: https://inteltechniques.com/menu.html
• OSINTCurio:  https://www.osintcurio.us/ (No longer kept up to date, but prior resources still up)

Author's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy.