This guide provides valuable strategies for event logging and threat detection, ensuring enhanced security measures. This comprehensive guidance can benefit individuals in the cybersecurity field, IT management, OT operation, network administration, and network operation roles within medium- to large-scale organisations.
Event logging plays a vital role in ensuring the security and reliability of essential systems. It provides network visibility and aids in effectively responding to incidents.
it stresses the critical need for enterprises to clearly communicate and enforce an approved event logging policy, centralise log access for efficient correlation, ensure secure storage to maintain log integrity, and develop a well-defined strategy for communicating and detecting relevant threats.
Develop an enterprise-approved logging policy
It is crucial for organisations to implement a standardised logging policy throughout all their environments. A comprehensive policy should specify the specific events that require logging, set up efficient monitoring procedures for the logs, and establish the suitable timeframe for their retention.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) emphasises that “an effective event logging solution aims to send alerts to network defenders when critical software configuration changes are made or new software solutions are deployed”. It is crucial to closely monitor all critical activities and promptly address any irregularities.
Centralise log collection and correlation
Consolidating logs in a secure and easily accessible location enhances threat detection and incident response, leading to improved efficiency. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) emphasises that “centralised event logging enables network visibility, allowing organisations to detect and respond to cyber threats more efficiently.”
This approach enables a comprehensive analysis and quicker identification of potential hazards.
Maintain log integrity
To prevent any unauthorised access, tampering, or deletion, it is of utmost importance to ensure the security of event logs during transmission and storage. The implementation of encryption and access controls ensures data security.
The guidance emphasises that preserving the integrity of event logs is of the utmost importance and requires ensuring their security. Maintaining log integrity is key for conducting precise forensic analysis and meeting regulatory obligations.
Develop a detection strategy for relevant threats
Organisations must establish a comprehensive approach to identify and address potential risks, such as advanced persistent threats (APTs) and the use of techniques like living off the land (LOTL).
It is critical to utilise tools such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems for log analysis and anomaly detection. To enhance threat detection, the ACSC emphasises the importance of effectively detecting malicious activity, behavioural anomalies, and compromised networks, devices, or accounts.
More on cybersecurity: Securing the future: ANZ’s cybersecurity innovations and standards
This publication was created in collaboration with various international partners, including:
By following these recommended guidelines, organisations can strengthen their cybersecurity measures and guarantee the protection and durability of vital systems.
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