Page 80 - Cyber Defense eMagazine July 2024

External threat intelligence refers to the data collected from outside sources about past and current
threats. This can include information about threat actors, their tactics, techniques, and procedures
(TTPs), indicators of compromise (IOCs), and more. This type of intelligence is provided by different
products, including feeds, as well as specialized platforms and portals that accumulate large databases
and allow users to search them.

Advantages of Internal Threat Intelligence

Detailed and Specific Understanding

Internal threat intelligence, being sourced from the organization's infrastructure, provides a detailed and
specific understanding of an organization's unique threat landscape.

Real-Time and Relevant Data

Internal threat intelligence offers real-time and highly relevant data. It allows organizations to quickly
identify and respond to threats that are directly impacting their systems and networks.

Historical Records

Historical records in internal threat intelligence, encompassing past alerts and network activity, offer
valuable insights into potential incidents. These records also aid analysts in quickly deciding if an alert is
a false positive, enhancing threat response speed and accuracy.

Advantages of External Threat Intelligence

Broader Understanding of Current Threats

Internal security systems can only identify threats that are already known. External threat intelligence
offers fresh information from various sources. In the event of a possible security incident, such intelligence
can provide valuable context and insights.

For instance, it can help you determine if the incident is part of a larger campaign targeting multiple
organizations, or if it's an isolated incident. It can also supply information about the threat actor's typical
behavior and tactics, which can guide your incident response strategy.

Proactive Threat Anticipation

External threat intelligence enables organizations to anticipate potential threats and vulnerabilities. By
understanding the TTPs of threat actors and the latest trends in cyber attacks, security teams can
proactively strengthen their defenses and be better prepared to respond to incidents.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – July 2024 Edition 80
Copyright © 2024, Cyber Defense Magazine. All rights reserved worldwide.