In the dynamic realm of cybersecurity, the external attack surface represents a pivotal area where organisations may encounter continual threats from external actors. Adopting open-source intelligence (OSINT) as a principal strategy can offer a nuanced and insightful perspective into your external attack surface. This blog will explore how organisations can harness the power of OSINT to fortify their defences and address vulnerabilities within their infrastructure.
Top 5 OSINT Sources for Attack Surface Management
- Shodan - Shodan is a popular search engine for Internet-connected devices that provides a diverse range of OSINT data on the devices and systems comprising an organisation's attack surface.
- Censys - Censys is another comprehensive search engine for Internet-connected devices that offers valuable OSINT data for ASM, such as open ports, connected devices, and SSL certificates.
- VirusTotal - VirusTotal is a widely-used service that aggregates different antivirus scanners' results and provides valuable OSINT data on potential threats and vulnerabilities in an organisation's attack surface.
- SecurityTrails - SecurityTrails is a diverse OSINT source that provides DNS and domain-related data, including historical DNS records, WHOIS information, and subdomain discovery, aiding in comprehensively monitoring an organisation's attack surface.
- Google Dorks - Leveraging Google Dorks, or advanced search operators, allows for discovering valuable OSINT data on potentially exposed information, such as sensitive files, directories, and login pages within an organisation's attack surface.
Incorporating diverse OSINT and data sources into an ASM pipeline is crucial for comprehensive attack surface monitoring, as it enables the identification of a wide range of potential threats and vulnerabilities that may be missed by relying on a single source. By utilising multiple OSINT sources such as those listed in the OSINT Top 10, organisations can gain a more holistic view of their attack surface and effectively prioritise their security efforts.
Unveiling the External Attack Surface through OSINT
Open-source intelligence involves gathering and analysing information from publicly available sources to generate valuable insights into the client's infrastructure and web applications. When applied to the external attack surface, OSINT has the power to reveal a comprehensive view of an organisation's digital footprint. This encompasses data points such as names, IP addresses, subdomains, and publicly accessible assets, providing an interconnected view of potential entry points for cyber threats.
Strategies for OSINT-Centric External Attack Surface Management
Digital Footprint Analysis
Conducting a thorough analysis of an organisation's digital footprint is the initial step in leveraging OSINT for attack surface management. This involves using tools to identify and map out all publicly owned assets, such as websites, subdomains, and online infrastructure. These tools can automate this process and provide a real-time overview of an organisation's online presence.
Social Media Monitoring
OSINT can extend beyond traditional cybersecurity tools by incorporating social media monitoring. Organisations can use OSINT techniques to track mentions, comments, and discussions related to their brand or infrastructure. This proactive approach helps identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, or leaked information that could be exploited by malicious actors.
Third-Party Risk Assessment
OSINT plays a pivotal role in assessing third-party risks. By analysing publicly available information about suppliers and partner organisations, companies can evaluate the security posture of their extended network. This can include examining vendor websites and any potential security incidents reported in open sources.
Threat Intelligence Integration
Incorporating OSINT-derived threat intelligence enhances an organisation's ability to anticipate and respond to emerging threats. By monitoring open sources for indicators of compromise (IOCs) and tracking threat actor activities, organisations can stay one step ahead in identifying potential risks to their external attack surface.
Reconnaissance and Enumeration
OSINT can aid in reconnaissance and enumeration, crucial phases in understanding an organisation's attack surface. Gathering information about domain infrastructure, DNS records, and network configurations helps security teams identify potential weaknesses that could be exploited.
Dark Web Monitoring
OSINT tools can be extended to monitor activities on the dark web, where cybercriminals often exchange illegally obtained information and tools. By keeping tabs on dark web forums and marketplaces, organisations can gain insights into potential threats targeting their attack surface and take proactive measures to mitigate these risks.
Conclusion
In an era where the external attack surface is continually expanding, companies need a proactive and informed approach to cybersecurity. Leveraging open-source intelligence for external attack surface management not only reveals a whole new view of potential vulnerabilities but also enables organisations to anticipate, adapt, and respond to emerging threats appropriately and efficiently. By integrating OSINT into their cybersecurity strategy, organisations can fortify their defences and maintain a resilient security posture in the face of evolving cyber risks. Here at DarkInvader, we provide OSINT and External Attack Surface Management. Open Source Intelligence Gathering is one of the keys to our multi-layered approach. Get in touch with us today to give you peace of mind.
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