Building Cyber Resilience through Structured Security Incident Response Exercises

Introduction

In today’s digital landscape, security incidents are an inevitable challenge for organizations that rely on digital information, systems, and services. The question is no longer whether a security incident will occur but rather when it will happen. To safeguard critical assets and maintain operational continuity, organizations must proactively prepare for these events through comprehensive planning and practice.

To function effectively, organizations depend on timely and accurate information, secure network connections, and reliable communication systems. Regular evaluation of their capabilities to detect, respond to, and recover from security incidents is essential—at a minimum, this should occur annually. Such practices are integral to regulatory compliance programs, including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and NIST SP 800-171 standards.

Security incidents take various forms, from phishing and ransomware attacks to denial-of-service events and data breaches. It is crucial for organizations to assess the potential impact of each scenario on critical systems and data, as any disruption can harm operational processes, damage reputations, and strain financial stability.

This guide outlines a comprehensive security incident response exercise program, detailing best practices for planning, executing, and evaluating exercises. By following these practices, organizations can enhance their preparedness for security incidents, improving their response capabilities and overall resilience.

Additionally, this guide serves as a foundational document for meeting compliance requirements under NIST SP 800-171 (Requirement 03.06.03) and aligns with recommendations outlined in NIST Special Publication 800-84. However, it does not replace the annual requirement to conduct security incident response tests and exercises. Instead, it provides structured procedures to support effective preparation and implementation of these essential exercises.

Goals and Objectives of Security Incident Response Exercises

Organizations conduct security incident response tabletop exercises at least once a year to improve their readiness for potential security incidents. These exercises simulate various cyber attack scenarios, providing valuable insights into the organization’s ability to manage a security incident effectively.

The primary goals of security incident response exercises include:

1) Practicing Security Incident Response Plans

Security incident response exercises put existing security incident response plans into action, allowing teams to become familiar with protocols and procedures in a controlled environment. Practicing these plans helps team members build confidence and enhances their response efficiency.

2) Identifying Deficiencies

Security incident response exercises allow organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of their current security incident response plans. By identifying deficiencies, organizations can address gaps in processes, resources, or training that may hinder their ability to respond effectively to real security incidents.

3) Clarifying Roles and Responsibilities

During security incident response exercises, team members gain a clear understanding of their specific roles and responsibilities within the security incident response framework. This clarity ensures that everyone is prepared to fulfill their tasks and act decisively during an actual security incident.

4) Evaluating Resource Capabilities

Security incident response exercises provide an opportunity to assess the adequacy of resources—including personnel, tools, and technologies—for managing security incidents. This evaluation helps organizations determine if they need additional resources to meet their security objectives.

5) Practicing Decision-Making Processes

Security incident response exercises allow teams to practice decision-making in a simulated environment. This hands-on experience builds confidence and enhances their ability to make critical decisions during actual security incidents.

By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, organizations can strengthen their security incident response capabilities, ensuring they are well-prepared to protect their critical assets and maintain resilience against evolving cyber threats.        

Pre-Planning for a Security Incident Response Exercise

The pre-planning phase of a security incident response exercise begins with a thorough review of the organization’s Security Incident Response Plan (SIRP) and associated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This review helps assess the organization’s readiness to handle security incidents by addressing the following key questions:

• How well does the current SIRP align with industry best practices and compliance requirements, such as CMMC and NIST SP 800-171?
• What types of security incidents could impact the organization, including threats such as phishing, ransomware, malware, denial-of-service attacks, and data breaches?
• How will the organization evaluate its capabilities to detect and respond to these potential security incidents?

After establishing a clear objective for the exercise, the organization should estimate the resources, time, and costs required. Developing a formal concept document or proposal is essential to secure stakeholder approval. This document should outline the following components:

1) Need and Purpose

Clearly state the rationale for conducting the exercise. Emphasize its alignment with compliance requirements, such as CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 (Requirement 03.06.03), and its role in strengthening the organization’s security incident response capabilities.

2) Goals and Objectives

Define specific, measurable goals and objectives for the exercise. Ensure these objectives are realistic, achievable, and aligned with the organization’s security incident response priorities.

3) Content and Logistics

Detail the exercise content, including scenarios, processes to be evaluated, and logistical considerations. Outline the location, participant roles, and timelines to ensure smooth coordination.

4) Budget and Risk Management

Outline the expected budget and identify potential risks associated with the exercise. Include strategies to mitigate these risks, ensuring that the exercise remains within budget and achieves its intended outcomes.

Securing official approval and support for the exercise is critical to its success. Careful planning and preparation lead to valuable insights, helping the organization evaluate its skills and preparedness to identify and address security incidents promptly. A well-defined aim and set of objectives will guide the planning team, structuring the exercise for maximum effectiveness.        

Planning and Developing a Security Incident Response Exercise

Once the organization secures official approval for the security incident response exercise, the planning and development process begins. This phase includes several critical steps to ensure the exercise meets its intended goals and strengthens the organization’s security incident response capabilities.

Establishing the Planning Team

A dedicated planning team is essential for coordinating the exercise’s format, content, logistics, and evaluation. This team ensures that the exercise remains relevant, realistic, and achievable while aligning with the organization’s operational environment. Key responsibilities of the planning team include:

• Developing the exercise framework and timeline.
• Coordinating with stakeholders and participants to ensure alignment with objectives.
• Ensuring the exercise content and format meet the defined goals for improving security incident response.

Defining the Exercise Scope

The exercise scope establishes the boundaries and focus of the security incident response exercise. Key considerations for scope definition include:

• Processes to Be Included: Identify relevant SOPs, security incident response plans, and protocols that participants will use during the exercise.
• Processes to Be Excluded: Clearly define any areas or processes that will not be covered to maintain focus and avoid unnecessary complexity.

By aligning the scope with the exercise’s objectives, the planning team ensures the exercise remains relevant to the organization’s operational context.

Clarifying the Exercise Aim and Objectives

The exercise’s aim and objectives serve as guiding elements:

• Aim: The aim provides a high-level description of the desired outcome, reflecting the organization’s specific needs in preparing for security incidents.
• Objectives: Objectives are specific, measurable tasks that participants must achieve during the exercise. These objectives should directly support the aim and allow the organization to evaluate participants’ performance effectively.

Realistic and aligned objectives help guide participants and reinforce the exercise’s relevance to the organization’s security incident response needs.

Choosing the Exercise Format

Security incident response exercises typically follow one of two formats:

• Tabletop Exercises: In this format, participants discuss a hypothetical security incident and explore responses based on the security incident response plan. This format encourages in-depth discussions and collaborative decision-making.
• Active Exercises: Active exercises require participants to respond operationally to a simulated security incident in a controlled environment. This format provides a practical test of response capabilities, including communication, security incident analysis, and resource coordination.

The planning team should choose a format that aligns with the organization’s objectives, available resources, and desired level of realism.        

Security Incident Response Scenario Design

The design of a security incident response scenario is a critical component of the exercise. A well-crafted scenario presents participants with a realistic, structured case study that allows them to practice their security incident response strategies and decision-making skills.

Selecting a Relevant Scenario

To maximize effectiveness, the planning team should select a security threat scenario that aligns with the organization’s operational environment and specific risks. Possible scenarios may include:

• Phishing Attacks This scenario simulates a phishing attempt, evaluating the organization’s ability to detect and respond to social engineering threats.
• Ransomware Security Incidents This scenario involves a ransomware attack that compromises critical systems, testing the organization’s recovery plans, resource coordination, and communication strategies.
• Data Breaches This scenario presents a situation where unauthorized access to sensitive data occurs, allowing the organization to assess its detection, response, and reporting processes for security incidents involving data exposure.

The selected scenario should align with the exercise’s overall aim and objectives, ensuring that participants can apply relevant knowledge and skills effectively.

Structuring the Scenario

A well-structured scenario gradually reveals information, allowing participants to make decisions in real-time. This approach enhances realism, encouraging participants to think critically under pressure.

• General Overview Begin with a comprehensive introduction to the exercise’s topics and their relevance to participants’ roles. To maintain suspense and focus, avoid disclosing specific details of the security incident in the initial overview.
• Progressive Disclosure Introduce the hypothetical security incident incrementally throughout the exercise. These staged developments, known as "injects," provide new information or challenges that participants must address as the scenario unfolds. This progression mirrors the escalation and dynamic nature of real-life security incidents.

Ensuring Realism and Relevance

To keep participants engaged, the scenario must be both realistic and relevant to the organization’s current operational context. The planning team should design the scenario to challenge participants while allowing them to apply established security incident response protocols and procedures.

Incorporating feedback from previous exercises and aligning the scenario with lessons learned can further enhance its impact. Tailoring the scenario to reflect the organization’s specific security landscape and operational priorities ensures its effectiveness and relevance, leading to a more valuable exercise experience.        

Preconditions for Effective Security Incident Response Exercises

To ensure the success of security incident response exercises, organizations must establish several key preconditions. These preconditions create an environment that supports effective learning and skill development, maximizing the value of the exercise.

Engaging an Experienced Moderator

An experienced moderator is essential for leading tabletop security incident response exercises. The moderator guides the discussion, introduces the scenario incrementally, and encourages active participation from all team members. Key responsibilities of the moderator include:

• Presenting the security incident response scenario using a structured and clear narrative.
• Maintaining the flow of discussions and ensuring participants remain focused on the exercise objectives.
• Encouraging collaboration and active participation among team members.
• Summarizing key insights and contributions to reinforce learning outcomes.

Forming an Experienced Control Team

For active security incident response exercises, an experienced control team is vital. This team simulates real-world conditions by introducing various scenario effects throughout the exercise. Key responsibilities of the control team include:

• Implementing exercise injects in a timely manner to create realistic challenges.
• Guiding participants in their roles and responsibilities while ensuring adherence to exercise objectives.
• Overseeing multiple teams and locations to coordinate activities, preserving the integrity and flow of the exercise.

Allocating Sufficient Time

Adequate time is crucial for conducting security incident response exercises effectively. Participants need ample time to engage fully with the scenario, collaborate on decision-making, and participate in debriefing sessions. Recommended timeframes include:

• Tabletop Exercises These typically last from half a day to a full day, depending on the complexity of the scenario.
• Active Exercises These exercises may extend from two to three days, with more complex scenarios potentially lasting one to two weeks.

Selecting an Appropriate Location

The location for the security incident response exercise should accommodate the needs of all participants and the moderator. It should provide:

• Sufficient space for discussions, breakout sessions, and collaborative activities.
• Access to necessary materials, equipment, and multimedia resources to support the exercise.

Ensuring Diverse Participation

To maximize the exercise’s value, include a diverse range of staff with various skills. The participant group should reflect the organization’s security incident response needs and objectives, incorporating individuals from different departments. A diverse group fosters a comprehensive understanding of security incident response processes and promotes effective collaboration.

Conducting the Security Incident Response Exercise

Conducting a security incident response exercise involves presenting participants with a realistic scenario, allowing them to practice response strategies in a controlled environment. The following steps outline how to execute the exercise effectively.

Presenting the Scenario

On the day of the exercise, the moderator introduces the selected security incident response scenario to participants. This introduction should be engaging and informative, setting the context without revealing specific details about the security incident to maintain suspense.

• Engagement The moderator encourages participants to actively consider their roles and responsibilities as the scenario unfolds, fostering engagement and a proactive approach.
• Realism By simulating real-world conditions, the moderator emphasizes the urgency and complexity of managing security incidents. This approach helps participants understand the practical challenges of security incident response.

Facilitating Participant Interaction

As the exercise progresses, the moderator actively facilitates discussions and interactions among participants to reinforce collaboration and critical thinking. This process includes:

• Encouraging team members to share insights on how to address the evolving security incident scenario.
• Guiding discussions to keep participants focused on the exercise objectives and desired outcomes.
• Asking probing questions that stimulate analytical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.

Implementing Injects to Maintain Realism

Throughout the exercise, the moderator introduces special “injects” – developments within the security incident scenario that require participants to adapt their responses. These injects add complexity and realism to the scenario.

• Timeliness The moderator presents injects at strategic points in the exercise to maintain momentum and participant engagement.
• Relevance Each inject should challenge participants to apply established security incident response plans and procedures effectively, reinforcing the exercise’s objectives.

Collecting Data for Analysis

During the exercise, independent observers collect data on participant interactions, decision-making processes, and adherence to established security incident response protocols. This data is essential for evaluating performance and identifying areas for improvement.

• Observation Observers document how teams respond to various challenges, noting both successful responses and areas needing enhancement.
• Feedback Observers provide feedback to the planning team after the exercise, offering valuable insights into participant performance and the exercise’s overall effectiveness.

Conducting a Debriefing Session

At the conclusion of the exercise, a debriefing session provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on their experiences and discuss key takeaways. This session should include:

• Evaluation of Performance Participants assess their responses to the security incident scenario, identifying strengths and areas for improvement in their approach.
• Lessons Learned Collect insights on ways to enhance future security incident response exercises and improve overall readiness.

Post-Exercise Evaluation and Documentation

After conducting a security incident response exercise, organizations must evaluate performance and document findings to strengthen their future readiness. This section outlines the essential steps involved in assessing the exercise and compiling necessary documentation.

Establishing Evaluation Criteria

Before the exercise, the planning team should define clear evaluation criteria based on the exercise’s objectives. These criteria guide observers in assessing participant performance and the effectiveness of the security incident response.

• Performance Metrics Develop measurable indicators, such as response times, decision-making effectiveness, and adherence to the security incident response plan. These metrics provide a structured basis for evaluating participants’ capabilities.
• Feedback Mechanisms Ensure observers have tools and templates for collecting structured data during the exercise, enabling consistent evaluations and reliable feedback.

Collecting Observational Data

During the exercise, independent observers should record data on participant interactions, decision-making processes, and compliance with security incident response protocols. This data is critical for identifying both strengths and areas requiring improvement.

• Note-Taking Observers document significant moments, highlighting successful responses and areas that need refinement.
• Surveys and Feedback Forms After the exercise, distribute surveys to participants to capture their perspectives on the exercise, including perceived challenges and successes.

Analyzing Exercise Results

Following data collection, the planning team analyzes results to identify trends, strengths, and weaknesses in the organization’s security incident response capabilities. This analysis informs improvements for future exercises and overall security strategies.

• Debriefing Sessions Conduct debriefing sessions with observers and participants to discuss findings and gather insights on the effectiveness of the security incident response.
• Actionable Insights Compile recommendations based on the analysis, focusing on strategies for enhancing processes, training, and resource allocation.

Compiling the Exercise Report

The final step is to compile an exercise report that documents the evaluation results, lessons learned, and recommendations for improvement. This report should include:

1. Executive Summary Provide a high-level overview of the exercise, covering objectives, key findings, and overall assessment.
2. Detailed Analysis Include a comprehensive review of participant performance, using specific metrics aligned with the defined evaluation criteria.
3. Recommendations Outline clear and actionable recommendations for refining the security incident response plan and enhancing future exercises.

The exercise report serves as an essential reference for organizational leadership and contributes to the continuous improvement of security incident response capabilities.        

Conclusion

In an era where security incidents are an unavoidable reality, robust security incident response capabilities have become essential for organizations. Conducting regular security incident response exercises equips organizations to prepare effectively for potential threats, safeguard critical assets, and maintain operational continuity.

By following the best practices outlined in this guide, organizations can strengthen their security incident response strategies to align with compliance requirements such as CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 (Requirement 03.06.03). These exercises enable organizations to test and refine their security incident response plans, promoting collaboration, communication, and confidence among team members.

Through thorough planning, execution, and evaluation of security incident response exercises, organizations can identify gaps in their preparedness and make informed decisions to enhance their security posture. Continuous improvement and a commitment to learning from each exercise strengthen resilience against future security incidents, ultimately protecting the organization’s reputation and financial stability.

Adopting a proactive approach to security incident response ensures that organizations not only meet regulatory demands but also remain equipped to address an evolving landscape of cyber threats.        

References and Further Reading

For organizations looking to develop and refine their security incident response testing practices, the following resources provide comprehensive guidelines, frameworks, and real-world examples:

NIST SP 800-61: Computer Security Incident Handling Guide

This guide outlines a foundational framework for managing security incidents, including best practices for detection, analysis, containment, and recovery. Organizations can leverage this resource to enhance their security incident response plans and refine their approach to security incident management.

NIST SP 800-84: Guidelines for Test and Exercise Programs for IT Plans and Capabilities

Providing essential guidance on designing and conducting test and exercise programs for IT systems, NIST SP 800-84 covers various security incident response test types, including checklist reviews, tabletop exercises, and full-scale simulations. It helps organizations establish a structured, repeatable approach to testing their response capabilities.

Cyber Management Alliance: Cyber Crisis Tabletop Exercise

Available at cm-alliance.com, this resource offers a structured approach to conducting tabletop exercises focused on cybersecurity. It provides a framework for creating realistic crisis scenarios, engaging stakeholders, and identifying improvement areas within an organization’s security incident response capabilities.

Cyber Management Alliance: Cyber Tabletop Masterclass - How to Plan, Produce, and Conduct Cyber Drill Exercises

This masterclass, available at cm-alliance.com, provides comprehensive training on planning, producing, and executing cyber drill exercises. Covering everything from scenario development to evaluation, it equips teams with practical skills for effective security incident response testing aligned with CMMC requirements.

Industry Best Practices

The MITRE ATT&CK framework offers valuable insights into attack vectors and techniques used by cyber threat actors. Incorporating elements from this framework into security incident response testing enables organizations to create realistic, scenario-based exercises that improve their readiness for real-world security incidents.

Case Studies and Reports from Cybersecurity Organizations

Case studies and reports from reputable cybersecurity organizations like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) or the Center for Internet Security (CIS), provide real-world examples of security incidents and response strategies. Learning from these cases allows organizations to anticipate potential challenges and adapt proven practices to strengthen their own security incident response capabilities.

Annex

Annex A - Example Objectives for Security Incident Response Exercises

The following objectives provide a structured approach for enhancing security incident response exercises. By setting clear, measurable objectives, organizations can evaluate their preparedness and capabilities during simulated security incidents. These objectives are designed to guide exercise planning, ensure effective assessment, and foster continuous improvement in security incident response strategies.

Organizations can tailor these objectives to fit their specific operational contexts and compliance requirements, including those outlined in CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 (Requirement 03.06.03).

1. Evaluate Security Education Effectiveness Determine if participant training adequately prepared teams to respond to security incidents and recognize common threats.
2. Assess Reporting and Analysis Guides Verify that security incident reporting and analysis guides address potential gaps or deficiencies in current response plans.
3. Measure Threat Detection and Reaction Capabilities Assess participants' ability to detect security threats and respond according to established protocols during the exercise.
4. Analyze Impact Assessment and Recovery Readiness Evaluate participants' ability to assess operational impacts from security incidents and implement effective recovery actions.
5. Examine Scenario Planning and Execution Measure the effectiveness of scenario planning and execution, ensuring alignment with exercise objectives and operational context.
6. Test Inject Effectiveness in Meeting Learning Objectives Confirm that scenario injects effectively challenge participants and support learning goals, enhancing exercise realism.
7. Identify Weaknesses in Security Systems and Protocols Detect any vulnerabilities in security systems, operational policies, and response protocols, recommending corrective actions as needed.
8. Determine Requirements for Additional Security Capabilities Identify any additional resources, capabilities, or tools needed to support information systems and sustain operations in adverse conditions.
9. Address Trust Issues in IT Systems and Evaluate Workarounds Identify potential trust issues in IT systems, such as outdated software or dependencies, and develop effective workarounds.
10. Enhance Communication and Coordination within the Organization Strengthen participants’ understanding of security incident response processes and improve coordination across teams for cohesive response.
11. Evaluate Communication with External Partners Assess participants’ readiness to communicate with external partners, such as law enforcement, vendors, or regulatory bodies, to ensure effective information sharing and support.
12. Develop and Test IT System Recovery Contingency Plans Create and assess contingency plans for IT system recovery, ensuring preparedness for critical disruptions and sustained resilience.

Annex B - General Ransomware Security Incident Response Tabletop Exercise Package

This annex provides a template for a ransomware-focused security incident response tabletop exercise, guiding organizations in evaluating their preparedness and response capabilities.

Exercise Overview

• Exercise Name: Ransomware Security Incident Response Tabletop Exercise
• Exercise Date: [Insert Date]
• Time: [Insert Time]
• Location: [Insert Location or Virtual Link]
• Purpose: To evaluate the organization’s ransomware security incident response capabilities, communication processes, and decision-making in a simulated ransomware security incident.
• Scope: This exercise targets phases such as detection, containment, response, and recovery in a ransomware scenario, helping teams assess readiness and identify improvement areas.

Participants

• Players: Key personnel actively responding to the scenario (e.g., IT, Legal, Communications, Leadership teams).
• Observers: Individuals observing the exercise to provide feedback during the post-exercise review.
• Facilitator: The individual guiding the exercise, providing scenario updates, and leading discussions.

Exercise Objectives

1. Evaluate the organization’s ability to detect and respond to a ransomware security incident.
2. Assess internal and external communication protocols during a ransomware security incident.
3. Test decision-making and escalation procedures for ransomware demands.
4. Identify gaps in backup and recovery strategies.
5. Review post-security-incident activities to support continuous improvement.

Scenario Overview

A malicious actor targets the organization via phishing, gains unauthorized access, and installs ransomware on critical systems. The ransomware impacts operations and demands a ransom, testing the organization’s response and recovery plans.

Exercise Modules

Module 1: Initial Detection and Notification

• Scenario Inject (Day 1): An employee opens a phishing email, enabling unauthorized access. IT detects unusual network activity.
• Key Actions: Initiate detection protocols and notify key personnel.
• Discussion Questions: What steps are taken to detect and confirm the security incident? Who initiates the response, and what communication follows?

Module 2: Containment and Impact Assessment

• Scenario Inject (Day 2): Ransomware encrypts files, affecting business operations.
• Key Actions: Engage containment protocols and assess operational impact.
• Discussion Questions: How does the organization contain ransomware? How are critical systems and data prioritized for protection?

Module 3: Escalation and External Communication

• Scenario Inject (Day 3): A ransom note demands payment within 48 hours.
• Key Actions: Decide on ransom payment and coordinate with external entities.
• Discussion Questions:What factors guide the decision to pay the ransom?How is external communication managed?

Module 4: Recovery and Post-Security-Incident Review

• Scenario Inject (Day 4): IT isolates affected systems and initiates recovery.
• Key Actions: Restore data, validate systems, and conduct a review.
• Discussion Questions:How are systems validated before resuming operations?What improvements can be implemented?

Guidelines and Evaluation

• Exercise Guidelines: Operate in a no-fault environment, focusing on realistic responses aligned with current policies.
• Hotwash and After-Action Review: Conduct a post-exercise hotwash to capture insights on the ransomware security incident response, noting strengths and areas for improvement.
• Post-Exercise Report: Summarize findings, highlight strengths, and develop a plan for addressing identified gaps.

Example Table for Session Flow

Annex C - Glossary

This glossary defines key terms related to security incident response exercises, providing a shared understanding for all participants.

After-Action Report (AAR)

A document that summarizes the results of a security incident response exercise, including lessons learned, evaluation of performance, and recommended improvements.

Business Continuity Plan (BCP)

A strategic plan outlining processes and procedures to ensure the continuation of essential business functions during and after a security incident.

Control Team

The group responsible for coordinating and simulating real-world conditions during an active security incident response exercise. The control team introduces scenario developments, monitors participant performance, and ensures the exercise remains realistic and aligned with objectives.

Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)

Information about cyber threats that helps organizations understand, prevent, and respond to security incidents. CTI is often integrated into security incident response exercises to assess preparedness.

Injects

Pre-planned scenario elements introduced during a security incident response exercise to simulate developments in the security incident. Injects challenge participants to adapt their responses and apply established security incident response protocols, enhancing the exercise’s realism.

Moderator

An experienced individual who facilitates tabletop security incident response exercises. The moderator guides discussions, presents the scenario, encourages collaboration, and ensures participants focus on achieving the exercise objectives.

Phishing Attack

A type of social engineering attack that uses deceptive emails or messages to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious software. Security incident response exercises often simulate phishing attacks to assess an organization’s ability to detect and respond to such threats.

Playbook

A step-by-step guide outlining specific response actions for different types of security incidents. Playbooks help standardize responses and are used during exercises to practice response protocols.

Ransomware

A type of malicious software that encrypts data or locks systems until a ransom is paid. Ransomware attacks are frequently used in security incident response exercises to test an organization’s recovery strategies, communication protocols, and coordination efforts.

Security Incident

Any event that compromises the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of information systems, data, or networks. Security incidents range from malware infections to unauthorized access and are central to security incident response exercises.

Security Incident Response

The process by which an organization detects, analyzes, contains, and recovers from security incidents. Effective security incident response relies on clear procedures and trained personnel to minimize damage and restore normal operations.

Security Incident Response Plan (SIRP)

A formal document outlining roles, responsibilities, and procedures for identifying, responding to, and recovering from security incidents. The SIRP provides a structured approach to managing security incidents and serves as a foundation for security incident response exercises.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for executing specific tasks within the security incident response framework. SOPs guide personnel in implementing the security incident response plan and are essential references during security incident response exercises.

Tabletop Exercise

A discussion-based security incident response exercise in which participants analyze a hypothetical security incident scenario and explore potential responses. Tabletop exercises emphasize collaborative decision-making and allow participants to practice security incident response procedures without real-world consequences.

Threat Hunting

A proactive practice of searching for signs of security incidents or vulnerabilities within an organization's systems. Threat hunting can be integrated into security incident response exercises to evaluate detection capabilities.