What identifies a successful execution of a cyber attack using compromised hosts to gain further access?

Indicators of compromise play a crucial role in identifying the successful execution of a cyber attack, as they refer to the artifacts or evidence left behind by malicious activities on compromised hosts. These indicators can include unusual file changes, unexpected network traffic patterns, or the presence of known malware signatures, among others.

When analysts or security teams detect these indicators, they can determine whether a host has been compromised and how the attacker may have gained access or expanded their foothold within the network. By analyzing these indicators, organizations can respond effectively by implementing remediation actions, strengthening their defenses, and preventing future incidents.

While command and control centers are involved in the ongoing communication between compromised hosts and the attackers, they do not provide insight into the presence of a compromise on an individual host. Network segmentation helps limit the spread of attacks but does not directly identify compromises. Intrusion detection systems can alert to potential threats but rely on the presence of indicators to function effectively; therefore, they are part of the defense mechanisms rather than the identification of successfully exploited vulnerabilities.