From Reactive to Predictive: A Framework for Integrating Threat Intelligence with SIEM for Proactive Threat Hunting
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55640/Keywords:
Proactive Cyber Defense, Threat Hunting, Threat IntelligenceAbstract
Purpose: Traditional Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, while foundational to security operations, primarily function in a reactive capacity, generating high volumes of alerts with limited contextual data. This reactive posture is often insufficient against sophisticated, persistent cyber threats. This paper addresses this critical gap by proposing a novel framework for augmenting SIEM with Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) to enable a predictive and proactive cyber defense strategy centered on threat hunting.
Methodology: This research synthesizes existing literature on SIEM, CTI, and threat hunting to develop the Intelligence-Augmented SIEM (IA-SIEM) framework. The proposed methodology is conceptual, centered on a dynamic Threat Knowledge Graph that is continuously enriched by external intelligence and internal logs. This enriched data fuels a two-phase process: (1) Predictive Threat Modeling, which uses the graph to generate and prioritize hunting hypotheses; and (2) Guided Threat Hunting, which provides analysts with a structured workflow to investigate these hypotheses and feeds findings back into the system. The framework’s efficacy is conceptualized through a case study simulating an Advanced Persistent Threat (APT).
Findings: Application of the IA-SIEM framework is projected to yield significant improvements over traditional security models. Key results include a marked reduction in Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR), a substantial decrease in alert fatigue and false positives, and an enhanced capability to proactively identify and neutralize previously undetectable, low-and-slow attack behaviors. The framework facilitates a shift from indicator-based alerting to intelligence-driven, hypothesis-led investigations.
Conclusion: The IA-SIEM framework offers a structured, actionable pathway for organizations to evolve their cyber defense capabilities from a reactive to a predictive posture. By systematically integrating threat intelligence at the core of the detection and response process, security teams can transition to proactive threat hunting, enabling them to anticipate and neutralize threats before significant impact occurs.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Alistair C. Finch (Author)
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