A Comprehensive Guide to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0

22Incident Analysis (RS.AN)

Delving into the heart of cybersecurity incidents with forensic precision uncovers the symptoms and the systemic weaknesses, guiding us with clear-eyed insights to fortify our digital domains against the unseen battles yet to come.

In cybersecurity, the meticulous analysis of incidents to identify their root causes is paramount, integrating technical and nontechnical factors through collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs). This comprehensive approach encompasses deploying forensic analysis techniques, leveraging log files, system monitors, and network traffic analyzers to gather evidence, and applying root cause analysis (RCA) frameworks to unearth underlying issues. Continuous documentation and the validation of findings through cross-verification techniques ensure transparency and accuracy in the analysis process. Moreover, developing corrective actions based on these discoveries and strategic recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future underscores the importance of preserving the integrity and provenance of investigative records. This holistic methodology not only aids in accurately estimating and validating an incident’s magnitude but also facilitates effective communication with stakeholders, thereby enhancing the organization’s resilience against future cybersecurity threats.

Author’s Note: RS.AN-01, RS.AN-02, RS.AN-04, and RS.AN-05 were deprecated from the CSF 2 and are not included in this chapter.

RS.AN-03: Analysis ...