Description: Threat communication refers to the process of sharing information about cyber threats with relevant stakeholders, such as organizations, businesses, and government agencies. This process is fundamental in the field of cybersecurity, as it allows entities to stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities that could affect their systems. Threat communication includes the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data on cyberattacks, malware, intrusion techniques, and other potential risks. Through this communication, organizations can implement preventive and reactive measures to protect their digital assets. Additionally, it fosters collaboration among different sectors and countries, which is essential to address the global nature of cyber threats. The effectiveness of threat communication depends on the quality of information shared, as well as the organizations’ ability to interpret and act on that information. In an environment where threats evolve rapidly, timely and accurate communication becomes an essential pillar for cybersecurity defense.
History: Threat communication has evolved since the early days of cybersecurity when organizations began sharing information about viruses and simple attacks in forums and discussion groups. Over time, the increasing sophistication of threats led to the creation of platforms and organizations dedicated to threat intelligence, such as the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) in the 1980s. As threats became more complex, the need for structured and effective communication became evident, leading to the adoption of standards and protocols for threat information sharing, such as STIX (Structured Threat Information Expression) and TAXII (Trusted Automated eXchange of Indicator Information).
Uses: Threat communication is primarily used in the field of cybersecurity to inform organizations about vulnerabilities, recent attacks, and techniques used by cybercriminals. It is also applied in collaboration between different entities, such as governments and businesses, to enhance collective defense against cyber threats. Additionally, it is used in training and raising employee awareness about best security practices and the risks associated with technology use.
Examples: An example of threat communication is Verizon’s annual Data Breach Investigations Report, which provides insights into attack trends and vulnerabilities. Another case is the sharing of indicators of compromise (IoCs) among companies through platforms like MISP (Malware Information Sharing Platform), which allows organizations to share threat information in real-time.
