What is Incident Handling?
Incident Handling refers to the process of detecting, analyzing, and responding to IT security incidents. It includes all activities necessary to effectively respond to unexpected security issues, minimize damage, and restore the system.
Typical Steps in Incident Handling
1. Detection
The identification of a security incident is the first and critical step. This can be done through alerts from security systems, reports from users, or through network monitoring.
2. Analysis
Once an incident is detected, a thorough analysis is required to determine the scope and severity of the incident. This involves collecting data and examining logs and system components.
3. Containment
During this phase, measures are taken to bring the incident under control and prevent further damage. This includes isolating affected systems or locking compromised user accounts.
4. Remediation
The remediation phase aims to return the system to a secure state. This might involve applying patches, removing malicious code, or resetting passwords.
5. Recovery
In this phase, efforts are made to resume normal operations and restore affected services. It is crucial to ensure that no vulnerabilities remain that could be exploited again in the future.
6. Documentation and Post-Incident Review
Documenting every aspect of the incident and the measures taken is essential. This information is valuable for updating incident response plans and training employee teams.
Protective Measures to Improve Incident Handling
✔ Development of a detailed incident response plan
✔ Regular training for teams and relevant employees
✔ Establishment of a reliable monitoring and alert system
✔ Conducting regular security exercises (Incident Drills)
Why is Incident Handling Important?
Incident handling is critical to minimizing the impact of security incidents and ensuring a quick recovery. Effective handling prevents data loss, reduces downtime, and protects the company's brand image.
Related Terms
📌 Emergency Management
📌 Cyber Incident Response
📌 Continuity Planning
