Security Incident Response Flow - Activity Diagram
This activity diagram illustrates a simplified security incident response workflow that demonstrates the core phases of cybersecurity incident handling from detection through resolution, focusing on essential decision points and response actions.
Response Overview
Core Process:
- Detection: Automated monitoring systems identify potential security events
- Validation: Determine if alerts represent actual security incidents
- Investigation: Analyze the incident to assess scope and severity
- Response: Execute appropriate containment and recovery actions
- Documentation: Record findings and improve security measures
Key Decision Points
Incident Validation:
- Real Incident: Confirmed security threats requiring investigation and response
- False Positive: Benign activities that can be closed without further action
- Early Detection: Quick filtering prevents unnecessary resource allocation
Severity Assessment:
- High Severity: Critical incidents requiring immediate containment and recovery
- Standard Severity: Normal incidents handled through standard response procedures
- Risk-Based Response: Appropriate response intensity based on impact assessment
Response Actions
Investigation Phase:
- Event Analysis: Examine the nature and scope of the security event
- Evidence Collection: Gather relevant data for analysis and documentation
- Impact Assessment: Determine the potential or actual business impact
High Severity Response:
- Contain Threat: Immediate actions to prevent further damage or spread
- Remove Threat: Eliminate malicious elements from affected systems
- Restore Systems: Return systems to secure operational status
Standard Response:
- Routine Procedures: Follow established protocols for common incident types
- Controlled Resolution: Methodical approach to incident resolution
Documentation and Learning
Incident Documentation:
- Record Findings: Capture incident details, response actions, and outcomes
- Evidence Preservation: Maintain records for analysis and compliance
Security Improvement:
- Update Security: Enhance security measures based on lessons learned
- Process Refinement: Improve detection and response capabilities
- Continuous Enhancement: Use incident insights to strengthen defenses
Response Phases
The workflow demonstrates the five essential phases of incident response:
- Detection: Identifying potential security events
- Investigation: Analyzing and validating incidents
- Containment: Stopping ongoing threats
- Recovery: Restoring normal operations
- Learning: Improving future response capabilities
This streamlined incident response process provides a clear framework for handling security events efficiently while ensuring appropriate response intensity based on incident severity and maintaining continuous security improvement.