Outline and discuss the factors that influence threat information quality

Several factors influence the quality of threat information, which affects an organization's ability to effectively defend its computer networks.

• Timeliness: The currency of threat information is important. Outdated data on vulnerabilities or attack methods may not reflect the current threat landscape, leading to delayed or ineffective responses. For instance, real-time threat management systems aim to provide up-to-date intelligence for prompt defensive actions.
• Accuracy: Threat information must be correct and free from errors. Inaccurate details about a threat, such as its severity or affected systems, can lead to misallocation of security resources or the implementation of ineffective countermeasures. For example, a correct advisory from a reputable source provides reliable information for response.
• Completeness: High-quality threat information provides a full picture of the threat. This includes details about attack vectors, indicators of compromise, and potential impacts. Incomplete information hinders a thorough understanding and effective mitigation strategy, such as missing specific TCP and UDP ports an attack might target.
• Relevance: The applicability of threat information to a specific network environment or organizational assets is crucial. Generic threat intelligence, while informative, may not be as actionable as information tailored to the systems and vulnerabilities an organization possesses. For instance, information on insider threats is highly relevant to organizations concerned with internal risks.
• Context: Threat information needs sufficient context for it to be understood and acted upon. This involves understanding the 'who,' 'what,' 'where,' 'when,' 'why,' and 'how' of a threat. For example, understanding the propagation mechanism of a worm like 'Code Red' provides critical context for containment.
• Credibility of Source: The trustworthiness of the source providing the threat information affects its perceived quality and reliability. Information from established and authoritative bodies, like national security lists or reputable security research organizations, is generally more dependable.