What action should be taken when a cyber incident is detected?

When a cyber incident is detected, implementing the organization's incident response plan immediately is crucial for effectively containing and assessing the threat. This plan outlines the steps that need to be taken to manage and mitigate the impact of the incident. It typically includes procedures for identifying and classifying the threat, determining its origin, and deploying containment strategies to prevent further damage.

Prompt action helps to limit the severity of the incident, protects sensitive data, and facilitates quicker recovery. Additionally, a well-designed incident response plan often includes roles and responsibilities for team members, ensuring that everyone knows their tasks and can act swiftly without confusion. This organized approach minimizes the potential for chaos and increases the chances of a successful resolution.

Other options may delay critical actions or lead to unnecessary complications. For example, notifying the media before assessing the situation can escalate the risk by spreading misinformation and panic. Shutting down all operations can lead to significant business disruption and may not be necessary if a targeted containment strategy is in place. Waiting for a third-party review could result in lost time, during which the threat might escalate, worsening the overall impact on the organization.