Microservices architecture is a more suitable way to improve the reliability and scalability of today’s software systems. In a microservices cloud-based architecture, a large application is broken down into smaller, independent services that communicate with each other through application programming interfaces (APIs). This allows for more focused development and deployment, as well as easier maintenance and scaling. A microservices approach is in stark contrast to monolithic software applications, which are built as single, unified units that are more complicated and time-consuming to build and deploy.

Site reliability engineers (SREs) appreciate the benefits of microservices because they provide faster development cycles, improved fault tolerance, and easier deployment. At the same time, they recognize that microservices bring new challenges, such as increased complexity in monitoring, tracing issues across multiple services, and recognizing the need for careful management of inter-service communication. These challenges pose significant red flags related to protecting customers from cybersecurity issues. It’s important to understand the need to maintain this type of architecture if privacy and security are going to be upheld as digital technology continues to become more sophisticated and integrated into society

Challenges of Moving Apps to Microservices

According to Varun Talwar, co-founder of Tetrate, an edge-to-workload application connectivity platform that connects companies to services across a mesh-managed environment, transitioning to a microservices architecture is a significant challenge for application modernization because many organizations operate complex systems that have been established for many years and could cause disruption of functionality if they were to be modified (Talwar, 2023).

Additionally, a survey conducted by Asperitas Consulting, a multi-disciplined solutions organization that assists companies in the implementation of cloud services, indicated that application modernization is challenging due to issues such as staffing and the unavailability of appropriate tools (Ghoshal, A., 2022).

The migration from monolith to microservices can also be a cumbersome task in and of itself. Microservices should only be considered after an evaluation of all alternative paths is conducted, according to Semaphore’s Tomas Fernandez, who also suggests that microservice applications could be best suited for software that begins as a monolith and for deployments that are not on-premises due to the nature of the customer having to manually deploy and configure everything on their own private systems (Fernandez, 2022).

One method of migration from monolith to microservices that more industry professionals are finding success with is the 12-Factor App methodology created by developers at Heroku, a cloud platform service that supports several programming languages.

Steps to this process include the following:

• having one codebase tracked in revision control, with many deploys
• declaring and isolating dependencies
• storing all configuration data separately from the code
• treating backing services as attached resources
• separating build and run stages
• ensuring the app is stateless
• exporting services through port binding
• developing the app to be concurrent
• building disposable processes so that the app can be quickly started, stopped, and redeployed without loss of data
• enabling continuous integration based on matching environments
• streaming logs to specified chosen locations
• running administrative and management tasks as one-off processes.

It is also important to note that not all legacy apps can be modernized and that APIs can be used to enable microservices.

The Benefits of Microservices

Amidst the challenges of transitioning to and operating on a microservices system, the most significant benefit is offering customers an improved user experience. According to Loris Cro, developer advocacy manager at Redis Labs, a services provider for nearly 9,000 organizations globally, end users for software developed with microservices see fewer performance issues, bugs, and general difficulties (McCall, 2020). For example, Cro points to the ability of development teams to use different languages and database systems on a per-service level as compared to monolithic applications. Despite the many benefits that microservices offer, undesirable outcomes can occur if there is an inconsistency in the services offered, high latency with app communication, or the microservices are too complex and don’t allow for extensibility, scalability, or feature additions.

The Future of Microservices

According to research, the Microservices Architecture market will rise from 5.49 billion USD in 2022 to 21.61 billion USD by 2023, expanding at a compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 18.66% during the forecast period (2022-2023) (Munde, 2023).

Other trends that are expected to impact the development of microservices include the following:

• improved observability and enhanced insight into microservices’ actions and ability to control communication through the service mesh reconfigurable infrastructure
• automated and optimized monitoring, incident response, capacity planning, and other operations through artificial intelligence techniques to manage software more effectively
• better reliability than single-source software development through the use of multi-cloud strategies that implement a microservices architecture (Garvit, 2023).

Although a switch to microservices-enabled software could present new security challenges as a result of their dynamic nature, companies are making the transition from monolith at a near 100-percent rate (Cloud Security Alliance, 2019). Recent research shows that 85 percent of companies are modernizing their architecture by moving to a microservices structure. The report also indicates that leading companies are twice as likely to have at least 75 percent of their apps on a microservices architecture (Solo.io). The sooner that any existing outliers conduct their conversions, the more reliable their security measures are likely to be.

About the Author

Kedarnath Mundluru is an experienced Senior Principal SRE Architect and IT Architecture with over 21 years in the field. Kedarnath has a proven track record of leading teams to develop and launch customer-focused features and products that deliver significant business value. His analytical abilities and technical expertise, combined with his critical thinking skills, made him well-suited to work in data-driven environments. Kedarnath has a deep understanding of all stages of the software development life cycle and a strong background in management and leadership.

Disclaimer

Views expressed in this article are personal. The facts, opinions, and language in the article do not reflect the views of CISO MAG and CISO MAG does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

References

Cloud Security Alliance. (2019, July 16). Challenges in Securing Application Containers and Microservices. https://cloudsecurityalliance.org/artifacts/challenges-in-securing-application-containers-and-microservices/

Fernandez, T. (2022, August 1). When Microservices Are a Bad Idea. Semaphore. https://semaphoreci.com/blog/bad-microservices

Garvit, J. (2023, March 1). Top Microservices Trends for 2023. Ecosmob. https://www.ecosmob.com/key-microservices-trends/

Ghoshal, A. (2022, August 10). IT leaders struggle with application modernization, survey finds. InfoWorld. https://www.infoworld.com/article/3669868/it-leaders-struggle-with-application-modernization-survey-finds.html

McCall, J. (2020, April 2). It’s a Great Time to Transition to Microservices Architecture. DevPro Journal. https://www.devprojournal.com/software-development-trends/devops/its-a-great-time-to-transition-to-microservices-architecture/

Munde, S., (2023, May). According to projections, the Microservices Architecture market will rise from USD 5.49 billion in 2022 to USD 21.61 billion by 2023, expanding at a compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 18.66% during the forecast period (2022-2023). Markets Research Future. https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/microservices-architecture-market-3149

Solo.io. (2022). Service Mesh Adoption Survey. https://www.solo.io/resources/report/2022-service-mesh-adoption-survey/

Talwar, V. (2023, March 21). Service Mesh As The Bridge To App Modernization. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/03/21/service-mesh-as-the-bridge-to-app-modernization/?sh=19f5fff19075

The post The Impact of Microservices on Cybersecurity: An In-Depth Look at the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

With the unprecedented rise in data breaches and theft, cybersecurity has become one of the top priorities for organizations and governments. Cyberattacks can cost companies millions and even disrupt economies and business operations. With these incredibly high stakes, the demand for skilled security professionals is increasing every day.

The growing intensity and sophistication of the threat landscape has forced companies to spend a fortune on strengthening their defenses. According to a Markets and Markets report, the cybersecurity market is estimated to rise from USD 240.27 billion in 2022 to USD 345.38 billion by 2026 (Markets and Markets). EC-Council’s Essential Series offers free online cybersecurity courses to help cybersecurity aspirants break into this field and prepare them for real-world industry challenges.

This blog explores how the top 3 free online cybersecurity courses offered as a part of the Essentials Series by EC-Council can help kickstart your cybersecurity career.

What Is the Essential Series?

The Ethical Hacking Essentials (E|HE), Digital Forensics Essentials (D|FE), and Network Defense Essentials (N|DE) teach students a range of baseline cybersecurity skills across industry verticals; this essential knowledge includes ethical hacking, penetration testing, conducting forensic investigations, data security, threats and vulnerabilities, web application attacks, IoT and OT attacks, information security, and more.

These foundational courses contain detailed manuals, expert videos, and lab tutorials. Each Essentials Series course includes 12 modules with learning exercises and lab ranges (optional add-on) that provide practical, hands-on experience to help you gain proficiency in network defense, ethical hacking, and digital forensics. The series prepares students for entry-level job roles such as a cybersecurity technician. The Essentials Series courses include:

• 36 expert-designed modules
• 40+ hours of premium, self-paced training videos
• 30+ virtual lab exercises mapped to the course curriculum
• Certificate of achievement

Why the Essential Series Is the Go-To Choice for Cybersecurity Aspirants

Industry experts have designed EC-Council’s Essential Series with the goal of training students in the best industry practices, tools, and methodologies to enable them to defeat threat actors from a theoretical and tactical perspective. This initiative includes three free online cybersecurity courses with certifications to educate learners in network security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking.

The curriculum offers an unbiased learning approach and exposure to industry standards. The courses are tailored for IT and early-career professionals and cybersecurity enthusiasts looking to build their skills and get first-hand experience using the technologies and techniques of the trade. Students can expect to receive industry-recognized certifications with each course.

Free Online Cybersecurity Courses With Certifications

1. Network Defense Essentials (N|DE)
2. Digital Forensics Essentials (D|FE)
3. Ethical Hacking Essentials (E|HE)

Network Defense Essentials (N|DE)

Network Defense Essentials (N|DE) provides a holistic view of network defense and information security concepts. The interactive labs will enable you to gain foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and core competency in defending networks and investigating them.

• 12 expert-designed modules
• Official eCourseware
• 14+ hours of premium, self-paced video training
• 11 virtual lab activities (optional add-on)

Course Outline:

• Network Security Fundamentals
• Identification, Authentication, and Authorization
• Network Security Controls: Administrative Controls
• Network Security Controls: Physical Controls
• Network Security Controls: Technical Controls
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing
• Wireless Network Security
• Mobile Device Security
• Internet of Things (IoT) Device Security
• Cryptography and PKI
• Data Security
• Network Traffic Monitoring

Tools You Will Learn and Use:

Wireshark, AWS, Miradore MDM, HashCalc, Docker Bench for security, MD5 calculator, VeraCrypt, HashMyFiles, and Data Recovery Wizard.

Job Roles:

Digital Forensics Essentials (D|FE)

Boost your resume by gaining expertise in digital forensics fundamentals and the digital forensics investigation process. Digital Forensics Essentials (D|FE) will enhance your knowledge base, and the add-on labs will prepare you for industry-ready jobs.

• 12 expert-designed modules
• Official eCourseware
• 11+ hours of premium self-paced video training
• 11 virtual lab activities (optional add-on)

Course Outline:

1. Computer Forensics Fundamentals
2. Computer Forensics Investigation Process
3. Understanding Hard Disks and File Systems
4. Data Acquisition and Duplication
5. Defeating Anti-forensics Techniques
6. Windows Forensics
7. Linux and Mac Forensics
8. Network Forensics
9. Investigating Web Attacks
10. Dark Web Forensics
11. Investigating Email Crime
12. Malware Forensics

Tools You Will Learn and Use:

Linux, Windows, Wireshark, Sleuth Kit, TOR browser, Splunk, ESEDatabaseView

Job Roles:

Ethical Hacking Essentials (E|HE)

Gain a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking and penetration testing fundamentals with Ethical Hacking Essentials (E|HE). Master fundamental ethical hacking concepts such as threats and vulnerabilities, password cracking, web application attacks, IoT and OT attacks, and cloud computing.

• 12 expert-designed modules
• Official eCourseware
• 15+ hours of premium self-paced video training
• 11 virtual lab activities (optional add-on)

Course Outline:

1. Information Security Fundamentals
2. Ethical Hacking Fundamentals
3. Information Security Threats and Vulnerabilities
4. Password Cracking Techniques and Countermeasures
5. Social Engineering Techniques and Countermeasures
6. Network-Level Attacks and Countermeasures
7. Web Application Attacks and Countermeasures
8. Wireless Attacks and Countermeasures
9. Mobile Attacks and Countermeasures
10. IoT and OT Attacks and Countermeasures
11. Cloud Computing Threats and Countermeasures
12. Penetration Testing Fundamentals

Tools You Will Learn and Use:

Netcraft, L0phtCrack, Web Application Security Scanners, ARP Spoofing Detection Tools, and SQL Injection Detection Tools

Job Roles

Exam and Certification Details

The Essentials Series is EC-Council’s massive open online course (MOOCs) initiative to fill the cybersecurity skills gap for entry-level job roles. The series aims to train tomorrow’s cybersecurity workforce and equip them with industry-relevant knowledge. These self-paced, free online cybersecurity courses teach students the latest security standards and how to apply best practices while remaining up to date on changes and trends in the field. With the Essentials Series, you will develop the skills you need for a successful cybersecurity career. Everyone is welcome—there are no eligibility criteria to enroll in the Essentials Series.

CodeRed’s Certificate of Achievement

• Exam Length: 2 Hours
• Exam Format: Multiple-Choice Exam
• Platform: ECC Exam Center
• Number of Questions: 75
• Certification: Course Specific (N|DE, E|HE, or D|FE)

Your Pathway to a Promising Career in Cybersecurity

References

MarketsandMarkets. (2021, June 21). Cybersecurity market by component (software, hardware, and services), software (IAM, encryption, APT, firewall), security type, deployment mode, organization size, vertical, and region (2022 – 2026). https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/cyber-security-market-505.html

The post Embark on a Cybersecurity Career with the Top Three Free Online Cybersecurity Courses appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

The Need for SOC Analysts Today

The quickly expanding technological landscape, combined with the complex attack approaches used by cybercriminals, is the primary reason for the burgeoning demand in this field. Enterprises are increasingly vulnerable to risks due to the remote work framework, Bring Your Own Device allowances, outdated policies, and a slew of additional concerns. To address these issues, corporations need to ensure enhanced network and system visibility and 24/7 monitoring to mitigate threats, thereby creating the need for security operations center analysts.

Defending intellectual assets in an organization is just one role a SOC analyst plays. The security operations center is a centralized unit made up of three elements — people, processes, and technology, which help monitor an organization’s IT and security infrastructure. SOC is one large team of security managers, SOC analysts, cybersecurity engineers, and more, who are responsible for managing and mitigating various threats.

Becoming a certified SOC analyst is a rewarding cybersecurity career. Organizations employ SOC analysts who can assume the role of front-line defenders, monitor their security posture, and alert relevant parties of any possible or emerging cyberthreats. This article discusses five skills that are necessary to begin a career in this field.

Before we explore that subject, however, it’s important to first understand the typical duties of a SOC analyst.

What Does a Security Analyst Do?

Security operations center analysts are skilled professionals with in-depth knowledge about SOC processes, tools, and technologies to help identify and mitigate cyber risks and ensure data security and privacy. Setting up a SOC team is not an initiative that happens after the cyberattack. A SOC team looks after the overall security posture of an organization, and SOC analysts are the first responders to cyber breaches. Let’s look at their core responsibilities:

• SOC analysts work to identify, assess, and mitigate the complete security aspects within the SOC.
• Highly skilled security analysts are responsible for conducting forensics investigations in organizations, while Level 1 professionals do triage work. The job of Level 2 SOC analysts is to monitor, report, and classify suspicious activities on networks and assign priority levels to them. A certified SOC analyst investigates security alerts and data breaches and identifies vulnerabilities that may lead to network incidents if left unchecked.
• Organizations benefit from the round-the-clock monitoring of their IT infrastructure that a SOC team provides. The team brings centralized visibility to all aspects of security.
• They maintain detailed reports of incidents and security policies.
• Security analysts use their analytical and critical thinking skills to examine security flaws and design robust recommendations for network security and strategies.
• The SOC team performs frequent assessments and audits to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
• SOC analysts stay up to date with the latest technologies and developments and adopt self-teaching practices to ensure they are up to date with changes in the industry.

A security operations analyst must also ensure that data flowing through the silos of an organization doesn’t get intercepted. Using a combination of different testing methodologies, updating cybersecurity strategies and systems, and recommending the best course of action for businesses in data breaches are some of the major responsibilities of a security operations analyst.

Now, let’s look at what makes a SOC analyst a top-notch professional to employ as a front-line defense.

Five Key Skills of a SOC Analyst

There are five key skills every SOC analyst must master to succeed in the cybersecurity industry:

1. Programming Skills

While it’s a given that cybersecurity professionals must demonstrate proficiency in technical skills to adapt to the evolving threat landscape, they also need to know programming languages. SOC analysts often work with cybersecurity engineers and security experts to devise threat mitigation strategies. Coding and programming skills are crucial. Sound knowledge of JavaScript, C++, and Python, to name a few, give a boost to those looking to pursue careers as SOC analysts.

2. Strong Fundamental Skills

While it may seem obvious, a SOC analyst must have a strong understanding of network protocols, systems, and IT infrastructure, along with knowledge of attack vectors and methodologies. Global employers highly value those with sound technical and rapid threat mitigation skills. Technology solutions are constantly evolving, which means SOC analysts should be able to learn on the fly and adapt quickly to changing threat scenarios. Most of them demonstrate excellent critical thinking skills and apply methodologies that go beyond mere textbook knowledge for dealing with threats.

Most skills cannot be learned with diligent study and require hands-on experience in the field. To identify, detect, and mitigate threats, SOC analysts should know how networks and their various elements work, including how adversaries find flaws and proceed toward exploiting them.

3. Communication and Collaboration

SOC analysts work closely with their team and other security professionals, and the ability to share information with all team members concisely and effectively is essential. Soft skills such as empathy, emotional intelligence, motivation, and the drive to accomplish challenging tasks despite the circumstances are valuable traits in SOC analysts. They should know how to effectively manage IOC alerts and incident defense tools and resolve key security breaches while keeping everyone updated.

4. Ethical Hacking Skills

SOC analysts must demonstrate ethical hacking and pen testing skills to detect, identify, and mitigate threats. Pen testing is an essential skill to be able to test the vulnerability of systems, web applications, and networks, report the anomalies, and respond appropriately.

5. Incident Handling and Documentation

Incident handling and response measures are often unpredictable, and SOC analysts must also be able to devise adequate data backup and maintain recovery plans. Reporting incidents to key stakeholders in the organization and addressing security challenges on priority are typical of their duties.

SOC analysts are responsible for documenting incidents, data breaches, and any malicious activities conducted in networks. They must help managers optimize security budgets and assist companies in determining which cybersecurity standards to implement for future protection. Understanding the role of pen tests in networks, web applications, and API vulnerabilities, as well as collecting, analyzing, and reporting security data are all requirements for effective incident documentation.

Apart from these, SOC analysts must also be able to effectively handle pressure. The ability to work under pressure during incidents and meet timelines for regular security audits is essential. The best SOC analysts are constantly honing their skills to gain an edge over others and create timely solutions while working in challenging environments.

They also monitor and analyze social engineering attempts. Incidents can sometimes happen due to internal threats and a lack of operational security awareness. This is where SOC analysts must stop lapses in judgment, whether human errors are accidental, intentional, or unexpected. They must also constantly review employee records, update systems, and ensure the latest patches are applied to keep network security up to date.

How to Become a Security Operations Center Analyst in 2021

A security operations analyst can wear multiple hats in an organization, and the day-to-day job roles might vary. Many professionals require a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity to break into the industry and land their first job. There is a wide variety of certifications a professional can complete to advance their career and earn higher pay as they acquire extensive professional experience. According to Salary.com, the average pay of a SOC analyst in the United States is $90,538 per year. However, it is important to know that the average pay range can vary based on numerous criteria, including educational background, work experience, and so on.

For those who are interested in stepping into a career as a security operations center analyst, here are some essential requirements:

• Education Requirements

The first step is to identify the roadmap to your career goals. Understand the niche field you want to specialize in, what certifications are needed, and how to get there. Even entry-level security analysts require specialized training, and most experts have a bachelor’s degree or a background in military service. Entry-level certifications show proficiency with in-demand skills, and many employers prefer to hire analysts that have demonstrated a certain level of expertise in acquiring them. If you wish to join a SOC team, the first step is to get a Certified SOC Analyst (CSA) certification.

• Networking

Networking is a powerful tool that can help you advance your career. SOC analysts may network by talking with other cybersecurity professionals in the industry or attending conferences, whether online or in person. Lasting connections can also be made through certification programs and degree programs. A strong career path could start with a Bachelor of Science in Information Management Systems and SOC analyst certifications earned periodically to reskill, upskill, and gain more industry knowledge.

• Certifications

Like any other role in cybersecurity, the day-to-day tasks of a SOC analyst can differ. On some days, the analyst may be busy performing vulnerability assessments on systems, monitoring networks, and reporting malicious events to the staff. A SOC 2 certification is helpful in getting a job in this field, and many recognized internships help analysts obtain the required work experience to get started. One such credential program is CSA training that equips participants with the necessary technical skills to make dynamic contributions to SOC teams.

Join EC-Council’s Certified SOC Analyst (CSA)

Every SOC analyst requires specific skills to succeed in their jobs, and a SOC 2 certification can go a long way toward starting or enhancing a career in the field. SOC Tier 1 and Tier 2 professionals ensure that security operations teams have the security monitoring tools and strategies they need to safeguard the security architecture of enterprises. With high salaries and promising opportunities, SOC analysts are in demand in 2021.

Obtaining EC-Council’s Certified SOC Analyst (CSA) certificate is the first thing you need to join a SOC team. It is an extensive training and credentialing program that offers a comprehensive approach to learning.

CSA offers in-depth course content focusing on SOC operations’ core fundamentals, log management, correlation techniques, SIEM deployment, incident response, and advanced incident detection methodologies. The program is ideal for Tier I and Tier II SOC analysts, cybersecurity analysts, and anyone who wants to become a SOC analyst. The certification creates new and dynamic opportunities for cybersecurity professionals to help them gain the necessary skills and techniques to perform entry-level and intermediate-level operations.

The post Top 5 Skills Every SOC Analyst Needs to Have appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

The first CSRF vulnerability exploit dates to the early 2000s, but Peter Watkins initially coined the term in 2001. While the first popular CSRF exploit surfaced in 2005, known as the MySpace worm by Samy Kamkar, also known as “Samy worm” – it was the earliest known cross-site scripting worm – which has revolutionized the web security space.

In 2007, cross-site request forgery ranked 5th place in the OWASP Top 10 and later dropped from the OWASP framework owing to the low incidence rate in 2017. However, cross-site vulnerabilities made headlines once again in 2018, with high-profile cases reporting CSRF bugs. Multiple organizations like Facebook were also exposed to cross-site forgery request vulnerabilities.

Before understanding the implications of CSRF exploits, it is crucial to know CSRF’s meaning and fundamentals. This blog explains CSRF, its key concepts, how it works, and how to prevent it.

What is Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)?

Alternately known as Session Riding or Sea Surf, Cross-Site Request Forgery is an attack method wherein threat actors design malicious requests to trick the users into visiting a duplicate website. The attacker can craft a fraudulent request, embed the malicious link in image tags, and trick the user into downloading the image through phishing or other techniques.

Typically, CSRF attacks target websites that trust some form of authentication by users before performing any action. It exploits a vulnerability in a web application when it cannot detect the difference between a valid user request and a forged one when the user is authenticated to the site. During a successful execution of a CSRF attack, an authenticated user is misdirected to a malicious website to perform actions with commands sent by the attacker.

An unsuspecting user is under the impression that they are performing an action on a legitimate website and unknowingly allow attackers to intrude on their system.

CSRF exploits can also occur because of cookies that are abused during cross-site requests. The process of fetching data from a third-party website is known as a cross-site request. Since all cookies, including session cookies, are also included in browser requests, the CSRF attack can be triggered.

Examples of Cross-Site Request Forgery Attack

Cross-Site Request Forgery attack is executed when a cybercriminal copies the layout, design, or website format from where data is being pulled [1].

Let’s understand a CSRF example in the context of a user logging into an e-commerce portal to purchase a product. For the CSRF attack to be triggered, the user must be authenticated to the site in an active session. The attacker exploits this trust and sends forged requests on behalf of the authenticated user. When the attack is successful, the attacker deceives the web application used to send their information to a fake website or place an order on their behalf.

The following section discusses the key concepts and components of CSRF and how it is carried out.

Key Concepts of Cross-Site Request Forgery

Successful execution of cross-site forgery attack includes two main techniques:

• Cross-site forgery attack relies on social engineering methods to deceive targeted users into clicking a forged link or URL. The common ones include phishing mail, a fake chat link, a tracking system, or a fake push notification that will redirect the user to the fraudulent site.
• CSRF attack aims to target users for performing state change requests. State changing requests do not reveal the data response of the request to the attacker and are used to only make some alterations in the data values, such as changing the email address, placing an order, changing passwords etc.

Through such attacks, the attacker can take control of the entire web application under some scenarios.

Components of Cross-Site Request Forgery

A Cross-Site Request Forgery attack consists of two main elements:

1. Cross-Site: The user is tricked into clicking a fake link that takes them to a target website designed to steal information from the victim.
2. Request Forgery: Cybercriminals send the malicious links to the user’s website or browser to which they are authenticated and trick them into clicking the duplicated link or values.

Learn More About CSRF Attacks

How Does a CSRF Attack Work?

As explained above, the CSRF attack is triggered when the user is authenticated to the web application, and the attacker can exploit the active session to trick the users.

There are two main methods of carrying out cross-site scripting intrusion:

1. GET Method

GET is an HTTP method that is used to retrieve any information from the specified resource.

To execute a cross-site forgery attack using the GET request, the user simply clicks on the forged link to find the malicious webpage. This website executes a script that sends an unsolicited request. Since the victim is unaware that they are on the duplicated platform, they perform the command and submit their credentials or download the cookies for the hacker to manipulate [2].

It is always wise not to use the HTTP GET request to perform state change requests dealing with sensitive data. Sending an HTTP GET request doesn’t result in data change generally. But in some situations, web apps still use GET instead of the POST to perform state changes. These activities include changing passwords or submitting a record etc. So, the GET HTTP method should be used to send non-sensitive data only, or attackers can exploit cross-site requests to execute an undesired action on the victim’s behalf.

2. POST Method

An HTTP POST request sends data to the server, which is embedded in the message body itself. While GET request is a convenient way to exploit CSRF vulnerability, most state-changing activities are done through HTTP POST requests. While it’s a myth that CSRF vulnerability cannot be exploited through the POST request, it is not the case. The attacker can deceive the user by creating a forged website that transmits malicious JavaScript and causes the user’s web browser to perform an undesirable action by sending a POST request when the page loads.

The following section highlights a few methods linked to CSRF protection.

Cross-Site Request Forgery Prevention Techniques

CSRF has severe ramifications on an individual’s data. It is even more concerning for organizations as attackers can use CSRF attacks to perform fraudulent transactions or disrupt the entire operation by accessing system-level privileges.

However, CSRF risks can be contained as web application security experts have proposed numerous CSRF prevention measures. Some of the best practices include:

1. Use CSRF Tokens

Organizations can implement CSRF prevention techniques using a CSRF token. These unique tokens have a secret value generated by a server-side application. Developers ensure that these requests are valid by adding a challenge token to every state change request linked to a specific user. These requests can range from transferring funds to adding personal credentials on the back end of the website.  And the token should be valid until the user ends the session. They are also known as the Anti-CSRF token, which protects users from falling prey to forged URL requests as the attackers also need to know the token to send malicious requests to the target user.

CSRF tokens can prevent cross-site request forgery attacks, as attackers fail to construct and feed their victims a fully valid HTTP request [3].

2. Use the SameSite Flag in Cookies

SameSite flag in cookies is a new method or attribute of preventing a CSRF attack. The SameSite attribute can be used to restrict cookies for cross-site requests for all third-party websites. This prevention technique enhances the security of web applications to a large extent. In this scenario, the website uses unique session cookies to determine if authentic users are logged in. Under suspicious behavior, the user or the bot will be blocked before any malicious activity is executed.

3. Implement Training and Raise Awareness

Apart from the above-mentioned cross-site request forgery prevention techniques, taking proactive steps is also important. You need to be well versed with the latest web application vulnerabilities to mitigate the threats arising from CSRF vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, it would help if organizations upskilled their employees periodically, especially those responsible for assessing and analyzing the security aspects of the organization — the IT and cybersecurity teams. A higher level of awareness and knowledge of the latest technologies and resources can help fortify organizations’ web applications’ security. The team involved in the web application development process should know about the risks associated with CSRF vulnerabilities. Sound knowledge of using an anti-CSRF token would be a significant step in making your web applications risk-free. Therefore, mapping your workforce to the proper training certification is also essential to mitigate the risks.

One such credible program is EC-Council’s Web Application Hacking and Security certification program that offers state-of-the-art training to candidates interested in taking their application security/cybersecurity skills to the next level.

Master Web Application Hacking and Security Skills with EC-Council

EC-Council’s Web Application Hacking and Security Training Certification equips you with niche skills aligned with application security job roles. The program covers every aspect of cross-site request forgery and how a web application security professional can identify such attacks. Apart from CSRF attacks, the program also covers different modules of web application vulnerabilities. You’ll learn about automated tools and techniques that will enable you to learn, hack, test, and secure web applications.

The program also includes capture-the-flag challenges to test one’s hacking skills, but the challenger can also follow an instructor to complete the challenge or work alone.

The certification will prove ideal for every aspiring web application penetration tester and organization looking for new ways to strengthen their cybersecurity teams.

Get Certified as a web application security expert -> Register Now

FAQs

1. How do I get my CSRF token?

Ans. You can get a CSRF token through a cryptographic strength pseudo-random number generator (PRNG). This generator is seeded with the timestamp, which signifies the time it was created. It also comes with a static secret.

You can also generate personal tokens by linking the outputs with user-specific entropy and taking the whole structure’s strong hash.

2. What are the two primary types of XSS vulnerabilities?

Ans. The primary XSS vulnerabilities include:

• Reflected XSS: Malicious script comes from the current HTTP request.
• Stored XSS: Malicious script comes from the website’s database.
  

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The pandemic-induced remote work also adds to the high incidents of cyberattacks, augmenting the need for cyber experts to take stock of the situation. Additionally, the need for skilled cybersecurity specialists to combat cybercrime has paved the way for numerous ethical hacking jobs.

This article sheds light on the career scope and opportunities for ethical hackers in 2021 and discusses the skills one needs to acquire to start their ethical hacking journey,

Before we discuss the skill sets and requirements for an ethical hacker, let’s briefly understand ethical hacking concepts.

Understanding Ethical Hacking and Ethical Hackers

Ethical hacking is an authorized attempt to intrude an organization’s network and systems to identify potential threats before cybercriminals do. Ethical hackers perform penetration testing to discover the anomalies and vulnerabilities that could disrupt the operations. They think and act like black hat hackers in order to find the bugs and patch the flaws without malicious intent.

Cyberattacks can cost organizations millions. Therefore, many firms are investing in cybersecurity practices and experts. Hence, the time is ripe for IT, security, and even networking professionals who want to delve into cybersecurity and build a rewarding career.

So, if you have limited knowledge of ethical hacking and wish to kickstart your career as an ethical hacker, this guide can help broaden your horizon. This article highlights the skillsets and requirements you need to have to become an ethical hacker.

Why Should You Pursue a Career in Ethical Hacking

The scope of vulnerabilities and attacks expands as modern organizations adjust to digital transformations and embrace cloud technology. As a result, businesses require cybersecurity experts to protect their digital assets, and ethical hacking is one such field that is gaining momentum in the wake of recent cyberattacks. Let’s look at a few opportunities or benefits that ethical hacking has to offer:

• High Pay Scale and Career Scope

As previously mentioned, the new and complex sophisticated cyberattacks have prompted organizations to improve their security measures and invest in a cyber workforce. While the demand for cybersecurity specialists is rapidly increasing, there is also a severe talent drought. Therefore, there is a need to close the skills gap, and ethical hacking is a viable career opportunity, and the demand is only going to rise in the future. Gaining certifications as an ethical hacker also elevates the chances of landing a high-paying job. From government agencies to private firms, banks, institutions are hiring ethical hackers to fortify their defenses against malicious attacks. According to PayScale, the average salary of an ethical hacker is $80,000 per year, while a certified ethical hacker can earn an average salary of $94,000 per year.

• Diverse Employment Opportunities

After gaining advanced certifications or proficiency in ethical hacking, one can also set foot in other cybersecurity job roles. Ethical hackers are adept at network and system security, web and application security, pen testing, and others which make them eligible to also apply as a:

• Network administrator/manager
• Security investigator
• Penetration tester
• Web security administrator/manager
• Data security analyst/specialist
• IT security administrator/consultant/manager

• Job Satisfaction

As an ethical hacker, you will play an integral role in safeguarding an organization’s digital assets and devising security measures, and effectively implementing them. Enterprises are aware of the importance ethical hackers hold in safeguarding their data and assets. As a certified ethical hacker, you can either be a part of in-house teams or offer your services independently from anywhere. The benefits and importance associated with ethical hacking are enormous, contributing to elevated job status and satisfaction.

Quick Guide on How to Become an Ethical Hacker

1. Educational Requirements

There is no one formula for becoming an ethical hacker. If this field entices you, you need to plan your ethical hacking learning path as per the industry requirements. To be eligible for an ethical hacking role, one needs to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, or any subset of cybersecurity.

2. Acquire Fundamental and Essential Skills

An ethical hacker is a skilled pen tester as well. Ethical hackers need to demonstrate expertise in network security, web applications, networking databases, etc. Therefore, they need to have sound technical knowledge and understanding of operating systems, programming languages, networking, connectivity concepts, hacking tools, etc. Ethical hackers employ offensive techniques or measures to assess the security of an organization. Therefore, aspiring ethical hackers can acquire the following skills to learn how to start hacking ethically:

• Networking skills
• Technical skills
• Programming skills
• Encryption (Cryptography) skills
• Knowledge about databases
• Quick problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills

Apart from these, learning the fundamentals of ethical hacking, different types of ethical hackers, the difference between offensive and defensive security strategies are also crucial.

3. Getting Certified

While one can learn ethical hacking on their own, it is certainly not easy. You need to continuously upskill yourself with the latest technologies and tools as technology is rapidly evolving and the threat domain. You can learn and acquire the mentioned skills by enrolling in ethical hacking certifications that align with industry-specific requirements. Getting certified is the next step to advance your career further and earn lucrative benefits. EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (C|EH) program is globally recognized and equips participants with the necessary skills to hone their craft. It’s one of the most challenging and sought-after ethical hacking certifications in the industry.

Why Should You Join EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (C|EH)

C|EH is a credible program and ANSI 17024 Compliant. A pioneer in setting a global standard for ethical hacking, C|EH is an apt program for learning the elements of ethical hacking in a structured environment. It’s also stated as a baseline certification on the U.S Department of Defense (DoD) 8570/8140 Directive, the British NCSC Intelligence Agency, and several others.

The C|EH program is curated by industry experts to train participants in the latest hacking tools and technologies that hackers use. They can also expand their knowledge in diverse areas such as footprinting, network scanning, system hacking, sniffing, session hijacking etc.

The accredited program also includes twenty-four incredible hacking challenges across four levels of complexity that cover eighteen attack vectors. This hacking challenge enables participants to deal with real-life scenarios in this field.

Once you get the C|EH certification, you can also be eligible to work in diverse areas. Some of the common job roles for C|EH are:

• Cyber Defense Analyst
• Vulnerability Assessment Analyst
• Cyber Security Analyst Level I and Level II
• Network Security Engineer
• Manual Ethical Hacker
• Senior Security Consultant
• And more

Cybersecurity is a thriving field, and the scope of ethical hacking looks favorable in 2021 and beyond. The demand for ethical hackers in any industry is steadily growing considering the cyberattacks. So, if you are keen on making your mark as an ethical hacker to protect your work data and assets, get certified as an ethical hacker.

The post How to Build a Career in Ethical Hacking in 2021 and Beyond appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

With the widespread use of web applications for banking, transactions, and other services, the pandemic-induced remote work has resulted in a massive jump in digital-based crimes. Cybercrime has increased 600% since the pandemic, according to Embroker statistics. As a result, there is a significant need for digital forensics investigators to look into these crimes and assist with data recovery operations.

So, if you are a cybersecurity enthusiast with critical and analytical skills, tracing computer-based crimes may be apt for you.

This article discusses the necessary skills, educational requirements etc., that can help you build a rewarding career in the digital forensics domain. But before we go into the details, let’s learn briefly about this field and the responsibilities of a digital forensic investigator.

Who is a Digital Forensic Investigator?

A digital forensics investigator is a trained professional/expert with impeccable knowledge of forensics principles, data acquisition, and legal procedures hired by law enforcement agencies and private firms. They are required to have an exceptional practical understanding of various concepts pertaining to digital devices (hardware related, software related, encryption, decryption etc.) for conducting a digital investigation. Identifying, collecting, storing, and documenting computer data using digital forensics tools to produce the necessary evidence that may be utilized in a court of law, is known as digital forensics investigation.

During the investigation, the digital forensic expert must understand, reconstruct, and analyze the crime scene, consider which digital device can be regarded as evidence, and extract the required data from the digital evidence. They are responsible for collecting evidence from the crime scene and preserving the pieces of evidence, lest they are tampered with.

The role of the digital forensic investigator differs depending on the nature of the case, i.e., recovering data (erased or lost data), incidents such as hacking and online frauds/swindles, or tracking sources (perpetrator) of a cyberattack. So, they need to learn the various digital forensics steps and phases to execute their tasks in a logical and systematic manner.

Advancing your career as a digital forensic investigator, one must gain specific skills, which we shall highlight in the next section.

Digital Forensics Skills and Requirements

In order to perform the tasks of a digital forensic investigator or analyst, one must be proficient in certain areas besides acquiring specific skills or certifications. The following are the basic set of skills and requirements one must acquire to become a successful digital forensics expert:

Education Requirements

A background in computer science or an equivalent is crucial to begin your career in this field. A bachelor’s in criminal justice can also be a viable option for one to pursue combined with computer forensics training later. Additionally, you can also earn your certifications online from a credible agency or institution. Employers’ requirements vary depending on the kind of profile they are hiring for. Getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree in cybersecurity specializing in digital forensics can also advance your career.

Common Skills

There are certain skills you need to hone to gain mastery in this field. Some common skill sets are discussed below.

1. Networking Skills: Sound knowledge in networking and connectivity concepts can help you in identifying a network intrusion.
2. Technical Skills: A thorough understanding of the fundamental technical aspects such as networking fundamentals, technical concepts, digital devices, how a system works, knowledge of different OS etc., can help you to acquire advanced certifications
3. Analytical Skills: Analyzing the digital evidence and data, cybercrime patterns and attacks etc. requires you to demonstrate critical and analytical skills to think like black hat hackers.
4. Communication Skills: As a digital forensic analyst, you need to convey technical information in a simple manner, so working on your communication skills should be on your list.

Comprehension of Cybersecurity Techniques

Broaden your knowledge about the latest breaches, vulnerabilities, risks, malware etc., in addition to being well-versed with the terms and concepts of cybersecurity.

Aspire to Learn

Technology is constantly evolving, and one needs to have the desire to learn and stay updated with modern technologies and evolving scope of attacks.

Work Experience

After obtaining skills and required certifications, gaining relevant experience in the required domain as a computer forensics analyst or an equivalent can help you accelerate your career and land you high-paying jobs as well.

How Can You Advance Your Digital Forensics Career with C|HFI

In addition to the skills mentioned above, one must know the various tools, techniques, and other methods used to conduct an investigation. Moreover, organizations prefer people who are well-versed in the digital forensics process and hold advanced from. Thus, increasing the possibilities of getting a job and qualifies them to be digital forensics experts with comparatively higher pay than other IT professionals. In addition, an accredited certification also enables one to apply in government as well as corporations. According to PayScale, the average pay of a certified digital forensic investigator is $64,900 per year.

Digital forensics is also expanding rapidly to include other branches such as Network Forensics, Database Forensics and so on which further increases the scope of employment in diverse fields.

There are various certified digital forensics courses one can pursue. However, earning a credible certification that aligns with the industry-specific roles can broaden your career prospects. EC-Council’s Certified Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI) program is ANSI accredited which offers vendor-neutral training to organizations. C|HFI’s in-depth curriculum, carefully curated based on the numerous methods and digital forensics tools necessary and employed in an investigation, allows you to build a solid foundation. Further, this course validates your skills to be the finest digital forensics investigator.

The post How to Become a Successful Digital Forensic Investigator? appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

Data leakage is a significant risk that can result from unlawful network access. Data breaches are detrimental to a company’s financial and business reputation. The recent Facebook data breach exposed the personal information and data of over 500 million users from 106 countries. Therefore, organizations are ramping up their cybersecurity strategies to protect their digital assets from malicious network intrusions.

This article sheds light on network security functions, network security components, and common types of network security attacks.

What Is Network Security? 

Network security encompasses directives and guidelines to safeguard network data integrity, including various devices and technologies. These rules are designed to securely access network data and protect the usability and confidentiality of systems and networks. The aim is to prevent intrusions and mitigate lurking security threats and curb lateral movement. Therefore, implementing network security tools and technologies is crucial to strengthening your organization’s security posture.

Organizations need to envision and anticipate network security threats to defend their system against threats. To devise new strategies and prevent network security vulnerabilities, one must understand the fundaments of networks and network security attack types.

Common Types of Network Security Attacks 

As individuals and businesses rely on internet-based services and applications for ease of use and convenience, the threat landscape has also expanded. The pandemic-induced remote work culture also adds to the growing incidents of network attacks and threats. Attackers can easily exploit vulnerabilities in these networks or systems and use the gaps to further their nefarious goals. The current increase in data breaches and theft underlines the importance of network security and how illegal network breaches may cost businesses reputational and financial damage.

A few widespread threats to our network and computer systems are:

• Distributed Denial of Service attacks (DDoS)
• Computer worms
• Malware threats
• Botnets
• Spyware
• Man-in-the-middle attacks
• SQL attacks
• Adware

Cybercriminals often deploy malicious activities or target systems and networks with security flaws – unprotected wireless networks, poorly coded websites, or accounts with poor password security.

If the network security threats are left unchecked, they can later escalate into major cyber breaches. Ensuring a safe network reduces the risk of unauthorized intrusions and data theft.

The following section discusses four network security components or elements crucial for enhancing an organization’s security.

Elements of Network Security 

Neglecting the existing or possible vulnerabilities in your network can have far-reaching effects on your business. Reputational damage is one major effect arising from weak links in network security, apart from financial loss.  Here are the four essential elements of network security to keep in mind:

1. Network Access Control (NAC)

NAC is a viable security tool that gives administrators network visibility into who can or cannot access the network. NAC solutions let them monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity. As the use of electronic devices like mobiles and applications accessing organizations’ networks are increasing to meet the compliance regulations and changing norms of work-from-home, intrusion risks are also quite high. Therefore, NAC solutions can help admins better grasp network traffic visibility and access management to secure their networks.

2. Firewall Security

Firewall security is one of the most crucial elements of network security. A network security tool, a Firewall serves to monitor both incoming and outgoing traffic. The intent is to block suspicious traffic activity, unauthorized intrusions from threat actors and curb the spread of computer malware or viruses. It acts as a protective fence between non-threatening and untrusted networks or devices, whether home-based or corporate networks; a firewall offers an added layer of protection to network security.

MarketsandMarkets predicts that the global network security firewall market size will increase from $3.8 billion in 2020 to $10.5 billion by 2025. Organizations see the need to configure firewall network security in the wake of spurred data breaches and increasing vulnerabilities ushered in by remote work norms and rapid digitalization.

3. Intrusion Prevention System or IPS

A network security application, IPS detects and blocks suspicious activity or anomalies on the network.   It examines the traffic and identifies suspicious or unknown malware activities on a protected asset.

Furthermore, IPS gathers and analyzes malicious actions before reporting them to the system administrator and other users.

4. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

SIEM is a crucial tool to protect your organization’s data and other digital assets. Besides, it lets you monitor traffic and security systems in real-time and gathers data from various traffic sources or databases to detect malicious activity. It also raises an alert and takes the necessary steps to mitigate hazards or prohibit suspicious activities.

SIEM combines SIM (Security Information Management) and SEM (Security Event Management) technologies and works as one comprehensive unit to strengthen an organization’s security posture.

Your business can take a massive hit without a certified network defender to probe network vulnerabilities and devise effective security solutions.

However, aligning your staff to the specific skillset of network security and defense is also crucial to stay abreast of network intrusions and data breaches. EC Council’s accredited program, Certified Network Defender (C|ND) is designed to help students and professionals defend against real-world cyberthreats.

Learn More About Network Security 

EC-Council’s Certified Network Defender program is a vendor-neutral, hands-on, instructor-led comprehensive network security program that teaches participants network security fundamentals. Moreover, this program is curated by industry experts to help IT professionals safeguard their businesses’ digital assets and strengthen their network defense.

Furthermore, it includes hands-on lab training, the latest hacking technologies, and updated models to learn in real-world scenarios.

C|ND program stresses on comprehensive network training and defense training to produce efficient Network Defenders to bridge the skill gap in cybersecurity. This certification teaches participants to use threat intelligence to predict cyberthreats before cybercriminals strike.

The post Explore 4 Key Elements of Network Security appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

With the dependence on electronic media and IoT devices, the risks and vulnerabilities associated with digital devices are also high. E.g., cybercriminals can launch a malware campaign by infecting a computer with a virus to further their malicious intent. Here, digital forensics experts’ role in identifying and preserving evidence gathered from the digital device during a criminal investigation is paramount.

This article explains digital evidence, its types, and how you can pursue a career in this field.

What is Digital Evidence?

As explained in the above section, digital evidence is best described as the data generated or found on any electronic device such as mobile phones, computers, smart TVs etc. Every electronic device combined with IoT technology is a potential source of digital evidence and is crucial to forensic investigations. Forensics experts gather, identify and preserve the evidence from these sources to track the perpetrators of the crime and present them in a court of law. Additionally, pieces of digital evidence prove useful in corroborating a timeline of events.

A digital forensic examiner must consider a variety of types of evidence. We shall discuss a few.

1. Analogical Evidence

Analogical evidence can prove helpful in scenarios with limited information or credible evidence to present during the investigation. By drawing comparisons between two similar cases, analogical evidence can lend credibility during a formal argument; however, it cannot be shown in court as proof.

2. Anecdotal Evidence

Anecdotal evidence loosely translates to accounts or stories by people to a specific incident or event. However, such testimonies do not hold valid in a court but can be used as supporting theory to grasp better or analyze a situation.

3. Circumstantial Evidence

Circumstantial evidence is evidence not drawn from direct observation of a fact in issue. It depends on inferences from a series of facts to draw conclusions in connection with the crime. This evidence is indirect evidence. For example, when investigators retrieve an audio clip about someone expressing their wish to commit a crime before a crime occurs, or some inferences can be drawn from someone’s search history on the web related to the crime. But this is not a direct observation of the crime as it is being committed.

4. Character Evidence

Character evidence is considered as a testimony that validates a person’s actions on a specific depending on the character of that person. Character evidence is handy to prove intent, motive, or opportunity.

5. Digital Evidence

Today, digital evidence has multiple sources, starting from email, text messages, hard drives, social media accounts, audio and video files, smart TVs etc. Therefore, digital data sourced from electronic media and Internet devices is an important link in solving crimes.

Types of Digital Evidence or Proof

In a court of law, evidence is of supreme importance; it is crucial to establish facts. Data or relevant information from electronic devices is pulled from two types of sources.

• Volatile or non-persistent: Hard disks and removable devices are a few examples of volatile data devices, which means that data is not accessible when they are unplugged from the computer. Further, data can be deliberately erased or wiped from these devices, to destroy evidence. Of course, Volatile also refers to memory that relies on power to store its contents, such as RAM chips. When the power is switched off, the memory contents are lost.
• Non-volatile, which is persistent: Persistent data is stored permanently in memory, and a loss in power doesn’t erase its content. For example, data stored in flash memory, ROM (Read-only memory), CD/ DVD, or tape.

Forensics investigation is incomplete without digital evidence. Digital data or information stored in electronic devices are associated with e-crime – another word for cybercrime. In the digitalization era, every Internet-enabled electronic device like a smartwatch, smart TV, video game console etc., can be a key component in gathering information to crack a case.

Additionally, the five rules of gathering digital evidence that every forensic expert should keep in mind are that digital evidence should be: admissible, authentic, complete, reliable, and believable. Hence, skilled individuals trained in this field need to handle the digital evidence, which brings us to the next section.

How to Conduct Digital Evidence Acquisition and Analysis

Digital forensics experts gather digital evidence to identify and analyze the case. Based on the type of electronic or digital device, forensic experts decide on their digital acquisition method. While containing the spread of cybercrime is the primary step after a cyberattack, gathering and analyzing digital evidence comes next.

One of the key points to note while handling digital evidence is to isolate the evidence source after seizing the available electronic media. Acquisition of digital data follows forensic principles and procedures. Moreover, forensic analysts need to isolate and store the digital data gathered from the evidence to maintain its authenticity and integrity. Tampered data or evidence is not admissible in a court of law. Next, analyzing the evidence for crucial information is important after creating a forensic image of the electronic media for examination.

While following proper procedures are crucial, digital forensics investigators face many obstacles.

Challenges of Digital Evidence

Acquiring digital evidence is not free of challenges. Only experts with the appropriate skillset and training are qualified to collect digital evidence. It is different from gathering physical evidence, and therefore, handling the digital acquisition of data is not free of risks.

Data stored in electronic media is volatile and is subject to changes or modifications. For example, a software update can change the data in the phone, or suspects can delete their data from the cloud or use the wipe-clean feature on their phones to remove any evidence. Consequently, this can prove tricky for investigators in carrying out the investigation. Besides, examining the massive volumes of data extracted from electronic media or devices is also a tedious task and requires the expertise of a skilled expert.

A forensic expert must be updated on the latest technological changes to be able to analyze and document the evidence. With the changes in big data and the latest technology updates, forensic experts need to be skilled in extracting data from multiple sources without modifying them and preserving the source of evidence for authenticity and integrity.

So, if you have a passion for solving crimes and analyzing evidence to track the perpetrators of cybercrime, the branch of forensic science is right for you. There is a need for cybersecurity specialists trained in digital forensics, which brings us to the last section of the article.

How to Get Certified in Forensic Science

As mentioned earlier, there is a significant demand for digital forensics analysts trained in industry-specific skills. Every organization needs digital forensics investigators to recover lost or stolen data in case of a data breach. Moreover, mapping your workforce to the right skill set is crucial to handle digital data acquisitions.

Hence, a credible course like EC-Council’s Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI) certification helps participants gain the necessary skills. The program highlights the various stages of collecting digital evidence — identification, collection, acquisition, and preservation and equips students with the industry-relevant skills and latest resources to tackle real-world scenarios.

The scope of the C|HFI program is enormous, and one can apply for various job roles such as Forensic Analyst. Forensic Accountant, Cryptographer, Information Security Analyst, Mobile Forensics Examiner, Computer Crime Investigator etc. According to PayScale, the average salary of a CHFI is $96k per year.

The post What Is Digital Evidence and Why Is It Important in 2021? appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

This article explains the skills required to be a certified computer forensics examiner. Before we highlight the skill set aspirants need to gain, let’s learn briefly about the roles and responsibilities of a certified computer forensics examiner, also known as a digital forensic investigator.

Who is a Computer Forensics Investigator?

A computer forensics investigator needs to have sound knowledge of data, forensic and legal principles, and procedures. People who acquire the skills in this field can apply for different roles such as computer forensics technicians, computer forensics investigators, Cyber forensics experts etc.

They are skilled professionals who work with law enforcement to gather and preserve information or evidence from different data sources. After that, the investigator examines the system, computer files, etc., to identify the changes, how they were changed, and track the perpetrator.

Do you have a passion for analyzing and investigating digital crimes and feel this career is right for you? The demand for a computer or digital forensics experts will only increase in the future, with the rising complexities of cyberattacks. Also, this field is rife with opportunities and offers a diverse range of job opportunities.

The following section talks about the basic, yet fundamental skills required to kick start your career in the domain.

Top 6 Skills Required for a Digital Forensics Career

Updating one’s skillset accordingly to pursue a career in digital forensics is essential to understand the flow and techniques of digital forensic experts. Next, we discuss six fundamental and crucial computer forensics skills.

1. Technical and Analytical Skills

An individual must be well versed in technical skills as well as analytical skills. To analyze cybercrime and data based on facts, one must be updated with the latest technologies and operating systems. In addition, analytical skills enhance the ability to judge, analyze and summarize facts and data based on the given criteria or situation, which is essential to evaluate the nature of digital crime and reconstruct the scenario and speculate various reasons and outcomes of the crime.

2. Familiarity with Networking Concepts

One must have an in-depth understanding of networking concepts. While gathering digital evidence, an investigator must know how networking works to understand the numerous ways the data is transmitted. Digital forensic investigation is not limited to just digital devices. They include examining the network to identify if the root cause of an attack was due to network traffic, access of servers, the LAN, WAN, or MAN connection, etc. Being a professional one should understand how to obtain the data present in the network servers while gathering evidence. To successfully understand data transmission via networks, one needs to understand the core concepts of networking.

3. Strong Communication Skills

Communication is vital, especially to convey technical terminologies and procedures to a non-technical individual. It is often related to explaining the investigation procedure to the judge in a court. Digital forensic investigators are required to explain complicated technical terms and practices to the judge in simple terms while simultaneously keeping in mind that the exact issue and technique are conveyed without any alterations.

4. Command Over Cybersecurity Concepts

In digital forensics, there are various terms, procedures, and policies which are related to cybersecurity. One must be familiar with all the basic concepts of cybersecurity like meaning and handling of threats, understanding data breaches, complete knowledge about vulnerabilities, various programming languages, etc. An extensive knowledge helps one understand the methods an attacker would implement, which eases the investigation process. With deep-rooted cybersecurity knowledge, one can identify or guess the type of attack performed, which helps the investigation.

5. Attention to Detail

As an investigator, it is crucial to pay attention to all the minute details. An investigator often needs to think from the attacker’s point of view to understand, speculate and analyze the attack performed. Digital forensic investigators need to pay attention to the minute details considering the nature of the attack, the crime scene, and the tentative motive of the attacker. This must be analyzed with an investigator mindset to decide what aspects/evidence are relevant to the case and what is insignificant. This helps in the investigation process and in understanding the nature of the digital crime.

6. Aspiration to Learn

Technology is a continuously evolving concept. Discoveries and developments to existing technology will always be made, and attackers will improve their attacks methods accordingly. Additionally, an individual must be willing to learn new things, technologies, and constantly evolving skills. Professionals in this field must stay updated with the latest technologies and attacks to understand, obtain solutions, and resolve issues with expertise based on one’s experience and knowledge gained over the years.

While aspirants must acquire the crucial computer forensics skills to become digital forensics experts, they also must be trained formally to develop these skills. Having an analytical frame of mind and critical thinking abilities can come naturally; building a digital forensics skillset requires formal training in a computer forensics course.

How to Build Digital Forensics Skills

Skills are an essential part of building a solid foundation in digital forensics. However, to carve a successful digital forensics career, one must start with an accredited computer forensics course or equivalent, which helps them acquire the required skills and aptitude.

One such credible program is EC-Council’s Certified Hacking Forensics Investigator (C|HFI), which imparts participants with the required skills and knowledge, and helps them build a solid foundation in the digital forensics domain.

This program provides extensive content of the various methods and tools used to conduct an investigation thoroughly. Computer Forensics training is essential for gaining the skills and knowledge to test your abilities in real-world scenarios.

On completion of the course, one can pursue different job roles in the digital forensics domain such as computer forensics investigator, information security analyst, forensics computer analyst, computer forensics technician, security consultant, and information systems security analyst. Individuals who have completed their computer forensic course can expect an average salary of $64,900 per year, as per PayScale. The certification course adds excellent value to your job profile, making it the only and most preferred certification course to step into the digital forensics domain.

Are you ready to crack the toughest challenges in real-world cybercrime scenarios? Join the C|HFI course and be job-ready.

The post 6 Fundamental Skills Required to Pursue a Career in Digital Forensics appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.

Digital forensics is a branch of forensic science concerned with data acquisition, investigation, and analyzing digital devices for gathering evidence. Identifying, collecting, storing, and documenting computer data using digital tools to produce the necessary evidence that may be utilized in a court of law, is known as digital forensics investigation. For instance, a digital forensics examiner investigates cases related to an illegal intrusion in your organization’s network and tracks the digital footprints to trace the attacker.

Computer forensics tools and strategies serve both, private and criminal investigative purposes. Digital forensics is growing exponentially, and with the rate of cybercrimes rising, this field is spreading its reach to several other branches of databases, malware, firewalls, mobile devices, cloud, and network forensics.

This article explains the skills you need to qualify for a digital forensics job role and what is expected out of a digital forensics’ expert during the investigation.

How Do You Become a Digital Forensic Investigator?

A digital forensic expert needs to have extensive knowledge of data, forensic and legal principles, and procedures. People adept in this branch of forensics can specialize in different roles such as computer forensics technicians, computer forensics investigators. Cyber forensics experts, etc. A report in Mordor Intelligence forecasts the digital forensics market to reach $8,210.5 million by 2026.

In addition to getting a bachelor’s degree in digital forensics or an equivalent, you can also opt for credible online certifications or get a vendor-neutral credential.

You can further your digital forensics career by adding specialized degrees in due time to land high-paying jobs and stay abreast of your competition.

Simply put, the following are the steps required to become a digital forensic expert:

• Bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree
• Work experience in related fields
• Become certified as an EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
• Get relevant soft and hard skills
• Apply for a digital forensic position
• Meet the expectations of the certified forensic interviewer
• Land the job position

How is Digital Forensics Used in Investigations?

A Digital forensics investigator follows a systematic procedure to unfold a cybercrime. As a forensics analyst, you have to be precise in your observations and ensure that the evidence is isolated and not tampered with. As a part of an organization’s security team, you have to follow meticulous cybersecurity procedures in case of an incident.

There are different uses of digital forensics in an investigation. Let’s look at the general steps required.

1. Planning

The planning phase is perhaps the most important strategy, to begin with. Cybercrimes occur at light speed, and one can never take enough precautions to protect their digital assets and networks from intrusions. Make a layout of your plan and approach them systematically. Identify your target and probable threats to gather evidence. As a digital forensics expert, you would also need to monitor and implement regulatory guidelines frequently.

2. Identification and Preservation

As a cyber forensics’ examiner, next comes the identification phase. You would need to find shreds of evidence or sources from digital devices after a data breach. Procuring key information or data from the crime scene, for example, identifying the location or in which format the evidence exists.

Additionally, preserving digital evidence or data is significant. Investigators should ensure that the evidence is not tampered with and should safeguard the original data or information after isolating the master copy.

3. Analysis

The next step is analyzing the evidence. To recreate the timeline of the crime, you would have to rebuild the pieces of evidence or information you have gathered. Besides, having the timestamps of the individual data or evidence you gathered in chronological order or fashion, you can pinpoint the source or get a clear picture to support your theory.

4. Documentation

Reconstructing the cybercrime scenario is easier when you record all the observations you made during the investigation. The primary purpose of gathering evidence is to be able to produce it in legal proceedings. Hence, your documentation should contain an in-depth investigation report with factual data, timestamps of the incidents followed, dated, and signed.

5. Presentation

The last phase includes presenting a summary of the relevant information or findings. As a digital forensics expert, your job is to ensure that your digital analysis report is free of any bias. Additionally, you need to summarize your data in a concise and chronological fashion, which can be understood by law enforcement and other corporate executives.

Why C|HFI is Your Go-To for All Things Digital Forensics

Digital forensics is an integral part of cybersecurity and is expanding to include network forensics, mobile forensics, firewall forensics, among others. The Internet era is certainly changing the way we store and share data, but on the flip side, cybercrimes are witnessing an upward trend. Therefore, there is a growing need for cybersecurity specialists trained in digital forensics.

So, if you have plans to make a career in this field, you would need to pursue a relevant forensics online course that aligns with industry-demand skills. While there are many credible courses, EC Council’s C|HFI program puts you at the top of the employment ladder.

The Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI) certification program by EC-Council aims to enhance the participant’s competence in identifying an intruder’s footprints. The modules also train individuals to gather all the relevant digital evidence needed to prosecute the perpetrator in a court of law.

C|HFI trains its participants in the core concepts of digital forensics, giving a methodological approach to computer forensics and evidence analysis that circles Dark Web, IoT, and Cloud Forensics. The program modules include using ground-breaking forensics tools and techniques to help the learner successfully execute digital investigations, identify complex security threats, and assist in data recovery programs.

Once you complete the training, you can qualify for a multitude of job roles as a certified forensic interviewer, forensics engineer, cybercrime investigator, forensic computer analyst, information technology auditor etc., and land high-paying jobs.

The post What Does a Digital Forensics Investigator Do in an Investigation? appeared first on CISO MAG | Cyber Security Magazine.