Title

AWS re:Invent 2023 - Lessons from the SOC: Analyzing and remediating cloud attack paths (SEC315)

Summary

Lonnie Best, manager of detection response services at Rapid7, shared insights from the SOC on analyzing and remediating cloud attack paths.
Rapid7 is known for the Metasploit framework, vulnerability management, and other security services, including managed detection and response (MDR).
A real-world incident was discussed where a threat actor used an AWS environment as a playground, creating IAM users, performing reconnaissance, and setting up phishing infrastructure.
The initial access method by the threat actor was unknown due to premature remediation by the customer, which led to data loss.
The threat actor's activities were mapped to the MITRE ATT&CK matrix, including initial access, discovery, credential access, execution, persistence, and impact.
Rapid7's attack path analysis tool in the Insight Cloud platform was highlighted, which helps visualize attack pathways and improve investigation and remediation processes.
Research by Rapid7 shows that mature cloud programs are seven times more likely to contain breaches quickly and manage cloud hardening effectively.
Security orchestration and automation (SOAR) can enhance the effectiveness and speed of remediation.
A case of crypto mining was presented, where automation and a tagging policy helped a customer save significant costs by quickly shutting down unauthorized EC2 instances.
Rapid7's Cloud Risk Complete offer was mentioned as a solution for cloud security, with an invitation to visit their booth for demos and discussions.

The importance of monitoring and analyzing CloudTrail logs and other AWS log sources is critical for early detection of unauthorized activities.
The incident underscores the risks associated with hard-coded credentials and the necessity of secure credential management.
The use of MFA is emphasized, but the incident also highlights that MFA alone is not sufficient if other security measures fail.
The MITRE ATT&CK matrix serves as a useful framework for categorizing and understanding the tactics and techniques used by threat actors in cloud environments.
Visual tools like attack path analysis can significantly aid in understanding complex attack vectors and improving security posture.
The research presented suggests that investment in cloud security maturity can lead to more effective and efficient incident response and containment.
The use of SOAR technologies can streamline the response process, reducing the time and resources needed to address security incidents.
The crypto mining example illustrates the potential cost savings and benefits of implementing automated security policies and mature security practices.
The talk highlights the ongoing need for organizations to balance rapid incident remediation with the collection of sufficient forensic data to understand and prevent future breaches.