RESOURCES
Managing Cyber Risk with CTEM and Beyond
The great philosopher Hegel famously said "truth is the whole." This means that to truly understand something, we must see it in relation to everything it connects to—its history, relationships, contradictions, and place within the larger system. This dialectic applies perfectly to cybersecurity. Every vulnerability, indicator of compromise, indicator of a possible attack preparation, digital asset, prevention or detection gap and their possible connections with each other have some degree of weight in the whole, or in the truth. But how do we define that "truth" in such a complex digital and threat environment? Where do we start from, and how do we proceed?
Defining imminent and overall cyber risk an organisation carries is not a simple task, but Gartner's Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) concept provides a solid framework for this purpose. CTEM is a systematic and cyclical approach to identifying, prioritising, and continuously validating an organisation's exposure to cyber threats across the expanding attack surface. It goes beyond traditional vulnerability management by incorporating external threat intelligence, attack surface monitoring, and validation of security controls - creating a holistic view where each element relates to and influences the "whole". CTEM helps organisations understand their true security posture by considering:
- The complete attack surface across on-premises, cloud, and third-party environments
- Active threats and adversary tactics targeting the organisation
- Effectiveness of existing security controls and gaps in defence
- Business context and potential impact of exposures
Applying a CTEM framework-based programme enables organisations to make more informed decisions about risk mitigation and resource allocation, ensuring that security efforts are focused on the most critical exposures that pose actual risk to the business.
Challenges in Operationalising a CTEM-Based Exposure Management Programme
Whilst CTEM provides a robust framework, implementing an effective exposure management programme presents several key challenges. Firstly, it demands the integration of multiple specialised technologies working in harmony. Orchestrating these CTEM components requires careful planning and expertise—success depends on having skilled cybersecurity professionals who can implement, maintain, and optimise these systems. Secondly, organisations must continuously reassess and adjust priorities as cyber risks evolve for each digital asset. Thirdly, modern attack surfaces such as SaaS Security and Shadow brings additional threats that require sophisticated cloud access controls and monitoring systems.
Another important consideration is how CTEM integrates with broader cybersecurity efforts and operations. Security investments across SOC, MDR, and SecOps functions must strategically align with CTEM framework insights. Organizations should avoid allocating cybersecurity resources to attack surfaces that pose minimal risk, while concentrating investments on areas where concrete threats and vulnerabilities have been identified. This risk-based approach ensures optimal use of security budgets and maximises the effectiveness of defensive measures.
Finally, there is the financial burden of implementing a CTEM based exposure management program. Capital expenditure on each technology poses a significant challenge, especially for SMEs, often making investment unaffordable.
Cynode Ultima: End-to-End Managed Threat Exposure Management
To address these challenges, we proudly present the Ultima Threat Exposure Management Platform. Building on the CTEM framework while extending its coverage, Ultima leverages advanced components including comprehensive threat intelligence, dark web monitoring, attack surface management, vulnerability prioritisation, prevention validation, log & detection validation, security awareness training, and SaaS security and Shadow IT monitoring.
Cynode Ultima goes beyond simply including these solutions - it integrates them with sophisticated playbooks to maximize their effectiveness. Through our security analytics engine, even subtle indicators that might seem insignificant in isolation can reveal critical patterns of malicious activity when viewed holistically. Our clients enjoy the full power of Ultima without requiring substantial capital expenditure, while continuously strengthening their security posture.
Learn more about Cynode Ultima by contacting us at https://cynode.com/get-in-touch
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Store What You Need, Analyse What You Must
In this blog, we explore why modern security operations must rethink their approach to telemetry collection and retention. With cloud-native platforms introducing real-time cost and performance tradeoffs, the legacy “collect everything” mindset is no longer sustainable. Instead, we present a strategy rooted in selective collection and tiered retention, where each log source serves a defined purpose — from detection to enrichment, investigation, or compliance. By aligning storage decisions to actual operational value, organizations can reduce cost, improve detection clarity, and streamline investigations without sacrificing visibility. This blog offers practical guidance on building a purpose-driven telemetry pipeline that scales efficiently, performs reliably, and supports smarter security outcomes.
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Modern SIEM Efficiency Starts at Ingestion: How Microsoft Sentinel’s Data Collection Rules (DCRs) Shape Detection Value
In this blog post, we explore the vital role of selective data collection in modern security operations and examine how Microsoft Azure Sentinel addresses this challenge using its powerful Data Collection Rules (DCRs). Whilst the discussion centres on Sentinel-specific examples, the insights presented are highly relevant for any organisation looking to enhance SIEM efficiency. Whether you're a security architect aiming to streamline detection or an MSSP customer focused on reducing data ingestion and operational costs, adopting a signal-driven logging strategy can yield substantial benefits. By being deliberate in what data is collected, organisations can lower overhead, sharpen threat detection, and ensure cost-effective log management.
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Understanding Group Managed Service Accounts (gMSAs): Advantages Over Traditional Service Accounts
Nearly all breaches in the last decade were preventable. While intrusions, defence evasions, and human error can occur, good cybersecurity practices can stop threat actors from progressing along the kill chain before achieving their goals. We've been sharing best practices through Tips & Tricks LinkedIn posts to help our followers build cyber-resilient networks. Our VP of Product, Cumhur Hatipoglu, has written a new blog diving deeper into Group Managed Service Accounts (gMSAs)—one of our recent Tips & Tricks topics. This Microsoft feature provides enhanced protection against attack techniques including credential theft, dumping, lateral movement, and privilege escalation. Your detection and response teams and service providers should focus on handling sophisticated attacks that bypass internal defences—not the preventable ones.
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Investing in Dark Web Monitoring: A Practical Guide
Should you invest in a Dark Web Monitoring service? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think—it really depends. Whilst Dark Web Monitoring is undoubtedly valuable, where does it rank in your list of priorities? For instance, if you have a limited budget, should you invest in Dark Web Monitoring or a Security Awareness Programme? The answers to such questions vary for each organisation, but there are some general principles that can guide your decision-making process.
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The Persistent Threat of Business Email Compromise
Business Email Compromise is a sophisticated type of email and identity based attack that doesn't rely on malware or malicious links. Instead, it leverages social engineering tactics to manipulate human trust and judgement. This makes BEC attacks particularly challenging to detect and prevent, even for organisations with robust protection infrastructures and cyber security awareness programmes.
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The Risks of Increasing SaaS Use
Organisations increasingly rely on cloud applications, with small enterprises using over 20 SaaS apps per user and large companies exceeding 250 per company. This growth introduces significant cyber security risks, including unauthorised access and Shadow IT, where unsanctioned apps are used without oversight. To mitigate these risks, companies need advanced monitoring solutions like Cynode’s MDR for Cloud Apps Shadow IT, which offers visibility, consent policy enforcement, and threat detection across SaaS platforms, ensuring security and compliance.
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Interview with Senior Cyber Advisor Per-Olov Kask
Delve into the fascinating career journey of a seasoned cyber security professional who has dedicated over three decades to the ever-evolving IT and cyber security landscape. Starting as an IT technician in 1993, our expert quickly rose through the ranks to become a country IT manager, driven by a passion for combating emerging cyber threats. In 2022, this journey led to an impactful role at Cynode as a Senior Cyber Advisor. Join us as we explore his experiences, insights, and the innovative approaches that make Cynode a leader in the cyber security field.
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Regular EDR Policy Tuning
The cyber security world has recently focused on EDR technology due to its significant impact across industries. This post explores the evolution from early antivirus software to EDR platforms. Key milestones include the introduction of commercial antivirus software in 1987, the emergence of heuristic and behavioural detection methods in the early 2000s, and the development of Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV) in 2010. EDR solutions, emerging around 2013, are crucial for detecting, investigating, and mitigating security threats but require regular policy updates and meticulous tuning for optimal performance.
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Mastering Log Management: Enhancing SIEM and SOC Efficacy
Efficient log management is critical for SIEM and SOC efficacy. Challenges include log agent malfunctions, configuration errors, and network issues. This blog explores four log problem categories, from detection failures to incomplete logs, and introduces innovative solutions for proactive threat detection and response. Learn how Cynode's integrated threat simulation and log validation processes ensure optimal log coverage and enhanced security monitoring. Stay ahead of cyber threats with robust log management practices.
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Understanding WebApp Exposure
WebApp Exposure Monitoring involves regular assessments and updates to perimeter defence platforms like WAF policies, ensuring alignment with the latest threat intelligence. Having a proactive stance to WebApp attacks is crucial as cyber threats incredibly fast, often outpacing traditional security defences. The process of continuously monitoring web applications allows organisations to more readily detect anomalies and respond to threats in real-time, minimising the risk of data breaches and other cyber incidents.
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Introduction to Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs)
Businesses increasingly struggle with cyber security management, especially with limited resources. Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) like Cynode offer comprehensive, efficient solutions, managing everything from security infrastructure to incident response, often using cloud services for cost efficiency. This article explores the benefits and services MSSPs provide, underscoring their importance in modern cyber security strategies.
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Improving SIEM Efficacy as the Market Evolves
As the SIEM market evolves with new mergers and partnerships, Cynode supports practitioners to ensure no security event is missed, offering comprehensive services from threat-centric log and rule validation to complete SIEM management.
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Welcome Konrad Falk as Our New Senior Cyber Advisor & Architect!
Konrad brings extensive experience in Cyber Security and IT, with a background in programming, networking, and security. Passionate about securing companies and educating others, he values the trust of our leadership and is eager to manage security incidents and tackle evolving threats hands-on.
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“Trust me, I was an engineer” – Björn Nilsson
We are pleased to announce Björn Nilsson as the new Head of Security Operations Sweden at Cynode. His extensive experience in cyber security and IT infrastructure marks a significant milestone in enhancing our capabilities. Björn brings a wealth of expertise from various critical roles within the industry.
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Cynode Boosts Team with Gustav Bivstedt's Technical Expertise
Cynode hires Gustav Bivstedt as a Cyber Advisor to enhance our Cyber Advisory and Assurance Services. His expertise strengthens our technical capacity and supports business growth, including new offerings in security testing, cyber maturity assessments, and proactive risk management with Cyber Threat Intelligence.
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Meet our "VP of Product" Cumhur Hatipoglu
As Cynode’s CMO, I am constantly impressed by our team's innovation and engagement. Cumhur Hatipoglu, our new VP of Product, enhances our mission to innovate in cyber security and MDR services. His approach integrates NIST CSF and best security practices to ensure our solutions meet clients' evolving needs.
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Hacking and Cyber Warfare Go Hand in Hand
Sweden, amidst its NATO application and tensions with Russia and Turkey, has experienced a rise in political cyber-attacks. Groups such as Anonymous have targeted governmental infrastructures, leading to data leaks. Escalation of cyber-crime and nation-state backed cyber warfare necessitates global enhancement of defense measures.
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EU updates NIS Directive. Are you compliant?
The European Union introduced the NIS 2 Directive to improve the cyber security of critical infrastructure systems within its member states and to ensure that digital service providers and operators of essential services have adequate security measures in place to secure their networks and data.
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Rise of Cyber Due Diligence in M&A Processes
Sweden's post-pandemic economic recovery has spurred M&As. Cynode emphasises integrating cyber due diligence to address vulnerabilities, protect essential information, and optimise security spending, enhancing the security posture before, during and after M&As.