Unmasking hidden threats: Rethinking standard DFIR approaches

In today’s dynamic cybersecurity landscape, traditional digital forensics and incident response (DFIR) methods often fall short in fully uncovering the scope of cyber threats. This is due not only to the complexity of modern attacks but also to the environments under investigation. This presentation examines the limitations of conventional DFIR, sharing real-world cases where standard techniques failed to reveal the full extent of malicious activity, and detailing the approaches used to expose the true risks. Adversaries now employ increasingly advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), requiring more adaptable investigative strategies. We’re advocating for a shift toward flexible DFIR practices that go beyond traditional constraints, enabling practitioners to identify hidden threats and challenge ingrained assumptions within organizations. Our goal is to equip security professionals with confidence in challenging assumptions and better meet the challenges of modern cyber threats.