Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM [1] [2]) is a strategic framework that enables organizations to continuously assess and manage cyber risks in response to the sophisticated and pervasive cyber-attacks prevalent in today’s threat landscape. This approach extends beyond traditional vulnerability management by focusing on understanding and mitigating exposures across the entire attack surface.
## Description
Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) is a strategic framework designed to help organizations continuously assess and manage cyber risk in response to the sophisticated and pervasive cyber-attacks prevalent in today’s threat landscape. This approach goes beyond traditional vulnerability management (VM) programs by focusing on understanding and mitigating exposures across the entire attack surface rather than merely identifying vulnerabilities. CTEM, as defined by Gartner [2], encompasses five stages: Scoping, Discovery [1], Prioritization [1], Validation [1], and Mobilization [1].
In the Scoping stage [1], organizations identify critical assets essential to their operations [1], often involving collaboration with various stakeholders [1]. Tools such as spreadsheets [1], Configuration Management Databases (CMDBs) [1], Software Asset Management (SAM) [1], Hardware Asset Management (HAM) [1], and Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) are utilized to support this process [1].
The Discovery stage emphasizes identifying assets and vulnerabilities within the organization’s ecosystem [1]. Vulnerability scanning tools are employed to detect known vulnerabilities (CVEs) and assess potential risks [1]. In cloud environments [1], Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) tools are used to identify misconfigurations and vulnerabilities [1], ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the attack surface.
Prioritization is crucial for ensuring that security teams focus on the most impactful threats [1]. Traditional vulnerability management solutions often rely on CVSS scores [1], which may lack business context [1]. To enhance prioritization [1], attack path mapping and external threat intelligence platforms provide insights into how attackers can exploit vulnerabilities and the real-time status of threats [1], allowing organizations to adapt to the dynamic nature of cyber threats.
Validation verifies whether identified vulnerabilities can be exploited [1], employing methods such as penetration testing and Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) tools [1]. These approaches assess the effectiveness of security controls and validate attack paths without disrupting production systems [1], ensuring that organizations are prepared for potential breaches.
Mobilization enhances collaboration between security and IT operations teams [1], utilizing tools like ticketing systems (e.g. [1], Jira [1], Freshworks) to streamline the remediation process [1]. Clear playbooks for common vulnerabilities and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions help centralize data and facilitate rapid response to threats [1].
XM Cyber offers a unified approach to CTEM [1], integrating all stages into a cohesive platform [1]. This integration simplifies implementation [1], allowing organizations to map critical business processes to IT assets [1], discover vulnerabilities across environments [1], prioritize exposures based on risk [1], validate exploitability [1], and improve remediation efforts [1]. The platform enhances communication between SecOps and IT Ops [1], fostering a responsive security posture that adapts to evolving threats and the complexities of modern IT environments.
## Conclusion
CTEM provides a comprehensive framework for organizations to proactively manage cyber risks by continuously assessing and addressing vulnerabilities across their entire attack surface. By integrating tools and processes across its five stages, CTEM not only mitigates current threats but also prepares organizations for future challenges. As cyber threats continue to evolve, adopting a CTEM approach will be crucial for maintaining a robust and adaptive security posture.
References
[1] https://thehackernews.com/2024/10/how-to-get-going-with-ctem-when-you.html
[2] https://www.cyberreport.io/news/modernizing-your-vm-program-with-rapid7-exposure-command-a-path-to-effective-continuous-threat-exposure-management?article=98811
