The cybersecurity landscape has long been focused on combating advanced threats such as zero-day vulnerabilities and supply chain attacks. However, the most consistent method of intrusion remains unchanged: the misuse of stolen credentials. Identity-based cyber attacks continue to be a primary means of gaining unauthorized access. Attackers utilize methods like credential stuffing from past data breaches, password spraying, and phishing to gain entry without the need for complex exploits.
How Identity-Based Attacks Operate
What makes defending against identity-based attacks challenging is their subtlety. When threat actors use valid credentials to log in, their actions blend into normal network activity, often going unnoticed. Once inside, they may extract more passwords, allowing lateral movement within the network, escalating their control. For ransomware operators, this method facilitates rapid encryption and extortion, while nation-states may establish long-term surveillance and data exfiltration.
The Role of AI in Advancing Attacks
While the basic structure of these attacks hasn’t significantly evolved, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has enhanced their execution speed and sophistication. AI enables attackers to automate credential testing on a larger scale, develop custom tools swiftly, and create more convincing phishing emails. This escalation places additional strain on cybersecurity defenses, which must now manage faster-spreading breaches that affect everything from identity systems to cloud platforms.
A Modern Approach to Incident Response
In response to these challenges, incident response strategies must adapt. The Dynamic Approach to Incident Response (DAIR) offers a flexible framework, allowing teams to tackle incidents more effectively than traditional methods. Unlike linear approaches, DAIR embraces the unpredictable nature of real-world attacks, encouraging a continuous cycle of investigation, containment, and threat eradication based on new information. This iterative process ensures a thorough response tailored to the dynamic nature of cyber threats.
Effective incident response hinges on clear communication among diverse teams, including SOC analysts, cloud engineers, and incident response leads. Coordination is crucial to ensuring that everyone has the accurate, real-time information needed for decision-making. Additionally, ongoing training and skill development are vital. Organizations that excel at managing identity-based attacks invest in practical, hands-on training, preparing their teams to recognize and counter the tactics used by adversaries.
This June, the SEC504 course at SANS Chicago 2026 will delve into these attack techniques and incident response methodologies. Participants will gain insights into the entire attack lifecycle, enhancing both their offensive understanding and defensive capabilities. For security professionals looking to advance their skills, this training provides a comprehensive foundation.
Note: This expert analysis is contributed by Jon Gorenflo, SANS Instructor for SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling. Stay updated with more exclusive content by following us on Google News, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
