Practical MITRE ATT&CK Framework for SOC Analysts
Real-world application of ATT&CK tactics in threat hunting and SIEM rule creation based on SOC experience.
Introduction
The MITRE ATT&CK framework is essential for any SOC analyst. In this post, I share practical applications from my experience at the National Center of Cyber Security.
Understanding the Matrix
ATT&CK organizes adversary behaviors into tactics (the “why”) and techniques (the “how”), providing a common language for threat intelligence.
Key Tactics
- Initial Access: How attackers get into your network
- Execution: How they run malicious code
- Persistence: How they maintain access
- Privilege Escalation: How they gain higher permissions
- Defense Evasion: How they avoid detection
Practical Detection Rules
Detecting PowerShell Abuse (T1059.001)
Monitor for suspicious PowerShell execution patterns including encoded commands, download cradles, and execution policy bypasses.
Detecting Credential Dumping (T1003)
Watch for access to LSASS process memory and SAM database extraction attempts.
Creating SIEM Rules
Map your SIEM detection rules to ATT&CK techniques for better coverage visibility and gap analysis.
Conclusion
ATT&CK transforms SOC operations from reactive to proactive, enabling systematic threat hunting and detection engineering.