What are some potential indicators of compromise (IoCs)?

Unusual network traffic and unexpected system changes are strong indicators of compromise (IoCs) because they typically signify that a system may have been infiltrated or manipulated by an unauthorized entity.

For example, a sudden spike in outbound traffic to an external IP address could indicate data exfiltration or a command-and-control communication channel that a cyber threat actor is using. Similarly, unexpected changes to system files, configurations, or settings can indicate that malware has been installed or that an attacker is seeking to gain persistence within the system. Monitoring for these anomalies is essential in detecting intrusions early and mitigating potential damage.

In contrast, increased system uptime could reflect reliable operations or an absence of problems, but it does not, by itself, indicate a compromise. Standard user account activity typically aligns with normal usage patterns and does not raise flags without other correlating factors. Frequent password changes, while an important security practice, do not in themselves demonstrate that a system has been compromised; they may suggest proactive behavior rather than an active security threat.