Newsletter Series: The Cybersecurity Kill Chain
Month 0: Understanding the Cybersecurity Kill Chain

Cyberattacks don’t happen all at once. They unfold in carefully planned steps, often unnoticed until it’s too late. That’s why cybersecurity professionals use a model called the Cybersecurity Kill Chain. Originally developed by Lockheed Martin, this framework breaks down an attack into distinct phases. By understanding each stage, businesses can better detect, defend against, and disrupt threats before they cause damage.

Why It Matters:
Cybercriminals follow a process. If you understand the process, you can break it. Every step in the kill chain represents an opportunity to block the attack.

The 7 Phases of the Kill Chain

  1. Reconnaissance - The attacker gathers intel.
  2. Weaponization - A malicious payload is crafted.
  3. Delivery - The payload is sent (e.g., via phishing email).
  4. Exploitation - The malware is triggered.
  5. Installation - Malware installs a foothold.
  6. Command & Control - Remote access is established.
  7. Actions On Objectives - The attacker completes their goal (e.g., stealing data).

 

Over the next several months, we’ll dive into each phase. The first month’s focus: Reconnaissance.

NetCenter Technologies
Empowering Businesses Through Cybersecurity