Incident Response: What Happens After a Cyberattack?
Cyberattacks are no longer a matter of “if”—they’re a matter of when. From small businesses to large enterprises, any organization connected to the internet is at risk. That’s why incident response has become a vital part of cybersecurity. This structured approach outlines how an organization reacts to, contains, and recovers from a security breach.
What is Incident Response?
Incident response (IR) refers to the set of procedures an organization follows when a cybersecurity incident occurs. This includes:
- Identifying the breach
- Containing the threat
- Eradicating the root cause
- Recovering compromised systems
- Documenting lessons learned
The goal is to minimize damage, restore operations quickly, and prevent future incidents.
Common Cybersecurity Incidents
Some of the most frequent incidents include:
- Ransomware attacks
- Phishing scams leading to credential theft
- Malware infections
- Data breaches exposing sensitive information
An unprepared response can cost companies millions and cause long-term reputational harm.
The Incident Response Lifecycle
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), IR typically follows this 6-phase cycle:
- Preparation – Develop response plans, assign teams
- Identification – Detect and confirm the breach
- Containment – Limit damage and isolate systems
- Eradication – Remove the threat
- Recovery – Restore normal operations
- Lessons Learned – Analyze and document the incident
Cybersecurity Careers in IR
Incident responders are among the most sought-after professionals in cybersecurity. Common roles include:
- Incident Response Analyst
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Technician
- Digital Forensics Expert
- Threat Intelligence Analyst
These roles demand technical expertise, quick thinking, and strong communication skills.
Learn IR at ICT Schools
The Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity at ICT Schools includes dedicated training in incident response and forensics. Students work with real-world simulations and industry tools to prepare for careers in both public and private sectors. You’ll graduate knowing how to respond quickly and effectively to protect data, systems, and people.
