CTEM (Continuous Threat Exposure Management)

If we think of the world of cybersecurity as a chessboard, it becomes imperative to anticipate what the opponent will attack after each move. However, the opponent here is not a single person, but hundreds or even thousands of hackers, malware and advanced threats. CTEM (Continuous Threat Exposure Management) guides you through the digital chessboard. It helps you anticipate potential threats and allows you to plan your security strategy several steps ahead.

CTEM is a five-stage cybersecurity approach that helps organizations manage vulnerabilities and potential threats more effectively, including a process of identifying and remediating potential problem areas before attackers find vulnerabilities in the system.

5 Stages of the CTEM Approach

Scoping: Organizations identify key attack surfaces by identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities specific to their environment. This stage is like recognizing the game board and pieces in chess. It is similar to determining which areas to defend at the beginning of the game.

Discovery: Like observing the possible moves of the opponent in chess, in CTEM, organizations conduct an active research and analysis process to identify potential vulnerabilities in their systems and assets. Thus, threat vectors are identified.

Prioritization: Discovered vulnerabilities are prioritized according to security and business objectives. This process is performed using automated tools and determines which vulnerabilities require more urgent intervention. For example, it's like prioritizing moves that threaten your king or queen in chess.

Verification: This is the evaluation phase using various technologies to test whether security measures are effective. By conducting regular assessments and audits, organizations can ensure that their defenses are up to date and able to deal with potential threats. This phase can be seen as the equivalent of testing defense strategies in chess.

Mobilization: Involves the implementation of the security controls and processes developed. Potential threats are effectively managed and the organization strengthens its defenses. Placing your pieces in the right positions to repel attacks is critical in the game.

The main advantages of CTEM are:

Identifies potential vulnerabilities and threats before attackers do, enabling preventive measures to be taken.

Helps organizations continuously monitor their security posture and keep track of weak points and developments.

Ensures the most effective use of resources by prioritizing discovered vulnerabilities according to their risk level.

Helps organizations become more resilient against cyber-attacks by strengthening their overall security posture.

In summary, CTEM's comprehensive five-step process strengthens organizations' security posture by identifying potential vulnerabilities and threats early. Thanks to continuous monitoring and prioritization, resources are used more efficiently. It strengthens organizations' security infrastructures and allows them to be better prepared for future threats.