What Is the MITRE ATT&CK Framework?

The MITRE ATT&CK framework has become an essential knowledge base in cybersecurity as a structured way to understand and respond to the latest cyber threats. This comprehensive framework can help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity strategies by providing a detailed understanding of adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures.

In this post, we explore the definition of “MITRE ATT&CK”, the core components of this framework, and how it can help you fortify your organization’s cybersecurity. 

What is the MITRE ATT&CK framework?

The adversarial tactics, techniques, and common knowledge (ATT&CK) framework was introduced in 2013 by MITRE, a non-profit organization that aims to support the public interest by addressing significant national challenges. Based on real-world observations, the framework provides detailed descriptions of tactics, techniques, and procedures used by cyber attackers. 

Initially, the ATT&CK framework focused only on Windows-based threats. However, over time MITRE continuously expanded it to provide valuable insights for all major platforms. Now, the framework also covers mobile threats and can be subdivided into three matrices associated with different subject matters.

Why is the MITRE ATT&CK framework important?

The MITRE ATT&CK framework enables organizations to understand cyber attackers from the inside out. The framework covers various adversary behaviors, explaining numerous tactics and techniques based on real-world observations of malicious activities. 

The MITRE ATT&CK framework can help you build more resilient security systems, improve detection and response strategies, and ensure your organization can handle modern cyber threats.

MITRE continuously solicits feedback and contributions from cybersecurity practitioners worldwide, ensuring that the framework remains up-to-date and reflects the latest adversarial tactics. 

Core components of the MITRE ATT&CK framework

The MITRE ATT&CK framework comprises three main components: tactics, techniques, and procedures.

Tactics

These construe the why of an attack, representing the goals that cybercriminals want to achieve during adversary actions. MITRE attack tactics are organized into stages that outline the typical sequence of actions attackers may take. Each tactic defines a particular objective in the MITRE attack chain, illustrating what the attacker aims to accomplish at each stage. 

For instance, within the Enterprise matrix, there are 14 tactics that cyberattackers use:

Techniques

Techniques describe the how of an attack, specifying the methods cybercriminals use to apply each tactic and achieve their objectives. Techniques can be further subdivided into sub-techniques. For example, email fishing attacks are one technique that could be used when applying the “initial access” tactic.

Procedures

Procedures show examples of how cybercriminals may employ certain techniques in their malicious operations. Based on real-world attacks, they demonstrate how specific techniques were implemented step-by-step. 

These procedures provide a thorough explanation of each method, helping security officers understand the practical application of the techniques and take appropriate preventive measures.

Key use cases of MITRE ATT&CK framework

You can utilize the MITRE ATT&CK framework for:

Security gap analysis. The ATT&CK framework can be employed to simulate real-world techniques used by cybercriminals, thus getting a realistic assessment of your defenses. Based on the results of your assessments, you can take appropriate measures to mitigate security gaps and refine your overall cybersecurity strategy.

Threat prevention. The MITRE ATT&CK framework can make you aware of the malicious tactics most relevant to your industry, letting you take targeted preventive security measures. For example, if credential stuffing is a common threat in your industry, you can develop alerts specifically for these behaviors.

Incident response. Since the framework provides a detailed matrix of adversary tactics and techniques, it can help you anticipate adversary behavior. The framework aids in identifying the methods used during an attack, enabling you to detect, mitigate, and remediate threats more efficiently. 

Security awareness training. The MITRE ATT&CK framework is excellent for educating your cybersecurity team about existing adversary tactics and techniques. By using the framework as your reference point for discussing cyber threats and mitigation strategies, you can enhance your training and awareness programs.

To sum up, the MITRE ATT&CK framework is a powerful tool for understanding and minimizing cyber threats. You can leverage this framework to fortify your cybersecurity measures, better protect your sensitive data, and ensure you are well-prepared for the evolving cyber threats. 

Syteca is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform that complements the MITRE ATT&CK framework. With advanced identity and privileged access management functionalities, Syteca is capable of defending against many adversarial techniques. Syteca’s granular tools for user activity monitoring grant you full visibility into your network, while real-time incident response allows you to put a halt to suspicious actions and disable compromised accounts on the spot.