Description: Compromise analysis is a method used to determine the extent of a security breach in computer systems. This process involves collecting and evaluating data to identify how the intrusion occurred, what information was compromised, and what vulnerabilities were exploited. Through digital forensic techniques, analysts can reconstruct events, track malicious activities, and assess the impact of the security breach. Compromise analysis not only focuses on detecting the intrusion but also on responding to and mitigating future incidents. This approach is essential for organizations looking to protect their digital assets and maintain customer trust. The ability to conduct effective compromise analysis can be the difference between a quick recovery and a prolonged crisis that affects a company’s reputation and operations.
History: Compromise analysis has evolved over the past few decades, especially with the rise of cyber threats. In the 1980s, with the emergence of the first computer viruses, basic forensic analysis techniques began to be developed. However, it was in the 1990s, with the proliferation of the Internet and the increase in cybercrime, that compromise analysis was formalized as a discipline within cybersecurity. Significant events, such as the attack on the University of California network in 1998, led to the creation of better practices and tools for incident analysis.
Uses: Compromise analysis is primarily used in security incident response, allowing organizations to identify and contain security breaches. It is also applied in security audits, where the effectiveness of existing protective measures is evaluated. Additionally, it is crucial in cybercrime investigations, helping authorities track perpetrators and understand the modus operandi of attacks. In the realm of business intelligence, compromise analysis can inform potential risks and help companies make informed decisions about their security infrastructure.
Examples: An example of compromise analysis occurred in the 2013 Target data breach, where a thorough analysis was conducted to determine how attackers accessed the network and what customer data was compromised. Another notable case is the 2014 Sony Pictures attack, where compromise analysis helped identify the vulnerabilities that allowed unauthorized access to the company’s sensitive information.
