Analyzing Cyber Threat Models – Diamond Model vs. Cyber Kill Chain and Privacy Protection Approaches

Analyzing Cyber Threat Models – Diamond Model vs. Cyber Kill Chain and Privacy Protection Approaches

In the context of cybersecurity, different models have been created to monitor and explain the nature of cyber intrusions performed by threat actors. Some of the more recognizable models currently in use are the Diamond Model of Intrusion Analysis and the Cyber Kill Chain Model. These models provide concepts that can be utilized to comprehend, manage, and combat cyber threats.

The Diamond Model of Intrusion Analysis

The Diamond Model of Intrusion Analysis provides a framework to understand cyber-attacks by focusing on four core components: the attacker, enabler, instrument, and target. The adversary is the actor who has executed the attack. Capability is the means of enabling the adversary to successfully launch the attack. The infrastructure comprises the structures that support the adversary in perpetrating the attack, as well as properties backing up the attack. Lastly, the victim is the recipient of the attack or a person who becomes a victim.

This diamond-shaped model links every component, demonstrating their interdependence. The Diamond Model assists in detecting advanced persistent threats (APT) and cyber threat activities and strategies. These features help cybersecurity experts evaluate risks and improve defense tactics (Caltagirone et al., 2013).

The Cyber Kill Chain Model

Cyber Kill Chain Model, developed by Lockheed Martin, divides the threat’s lifespan into seven stages: reconnaissance, weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, C2, and action on goals (Hutchins et al., 2011).

1. Reconnaissance relies on resource identification to gather target information.
2. Weaponization creates a malicious payload.
3. Delivery transfer of the payload to the recipient.
4. Malware payload execution is exploitation.
5. Target operating system viruses are planted during implementation.
6. Command and Control connect the attacker and targeted system.
7. Actions on Objectives involve achieving goals, such as stealing data or crippling a computer system.

Differences Between the Models

Both models seek to comprehend cyber dangers, but their structure and use differ. The Diamond Model analyzes cyber-attack components and their relationships to give stakeholders a complete picture of the threat environment (Caltagirone et al., 2013). The Cyber Kill Chain Model examines attack stages and offers a more structured approach to threat assessment and prevention (Hutchins et al., 2011). The Diamond Model provides thorough identification, whereas the Cyber Kill Chain Model provides explicit, executable actions.

Privacy Protection Approaches

Different measures have been taken by people, groups, and governments to increase privacy. To prevent vulnerabilities, people should use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and update programs (Abomhara & Køien, 2015). Top management ensures data protection through techniques such as encryption and security auditing of their organizations, as well as by formulating strict policies and procedures regarding privacy (Kigerl, 2016). Authorities implement legislation on data protection like the GDPR, support campaigns on cyber skills, and develop cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard citizens’ information (Schmitt, 2017).

Using Cyber Threat Models to Combat Cybercrime

Cyber threat models are effective since they help to understand the threat types, actors, purposes, and beliefs related to cyber criminal activities. The adversarial network can be discovered using the Diamond Model with reference to the techniques and goals of the attacker in addition to the targets (Caltagirone et al., 2013). The Cyber Kill Chain Model, on the other hand, helps in establishing ways and means to disrupt an attack phase in the lifecycle and stop the attacker from fulfilling his/her goal (Hutchins et al., 2011).

As such, cybersecurity experts must examine why specific targets are attacked, as well as the beliefs that underlie such acts, in order to minimize the risks. For instance, identifying the logic of action that motivates hacktivists may assist in predicting the targets and strategies of such groups. Integrating findings from both models allows for improving the overall cybersecurity posture as both models provide information about threats and their potential impacts.

References

Abomhara, M., & Køien, G. M. (2015). Cyber security and the internet of things: Vulnerabilities, threats, intruders and attacks. J. Cyber Security. Mobil., 4(1), 65-88.

Caltagirone, S., Pendergast, A., & Betz, C. (2013). The diamond model of intrusion analysis. Threat Connect,298(0704), 1-61.

Hutchins, E. M., Cloppert, M. J., & Amin, R. M. (2011). Intelligence-driven computer network defense informed by analysis of adversary campaigns and intrusion kill chains. Leading Issues in Information Warfare & Security Research, 1(1), 80.

Kigerl, A. (2016). Cyber Crime Nation Typologies: K-Means Clustering of Countries Based on Cyber Crime Rates. International Journal of Cyber Criminology, 10(2).

Schmitt, M. N. (Ed.). (2017). Tallinn manual 2.0 on the international law applicable to cyber operations. Cambridge University Press.

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In cybersecurity, there are several approaches used to track and analyze the various characteristics of cyber intrusions by threat actors. Two well-known approaches are the diamond model of intrusion analysis and the cyber kill chain model.

Analyzing Cyber Threat Models – Diamond Model vs. Cyber Kill Chain and Privacy Protection Approaches

Create a digital infographic that analyzes various cyber threat models and addresses the following:

• Describe the diamond model of intrusion analysis and how the cyber kill chain model works.
• Explain how these two models differ.
• Describe approaches individuals, organizations, and governments have taken to protect privacy.
• Analyze how the cyber threat models are used to identify and protect against cybercrime threat vectors, motivations, and ideologies.