As cyber threats continue to evolve, especially in sector-specific contexts, it becomes imperative for analysts to stay ahead of sophisticated threats. The course will enable participants to integrate skills acquired from OSINT and social media intelligence (SOCMINT) to identify and act upon emerging cyber threats swiftly.

The course also introduces the importance of critical internal and external stakeholder interactions, highlighting information gathering from organization insiders such as IT personnel, and articulating findings to senior leadership.

Effective documentation and reporting are critical skills for any All-Source Analyst, and this course places a strong emphasis on these areas. Participants will learn to compile their findings into clear, actionable intelligence reports. Additionally, they will develop custom methodologies, creating robust processes for intelligence collection and analysis that can be applied across different scenarios and operations.

Upon completing this course, participants will emerge with advanced capabilities in:

• Identify reliable sources of information across various online platforms.
• Acquire effective data collection and analysis techniques from social media.
• Analyze diverse document formats to extract useful intelligence efficiently.
• Master techniques for revealing concealed data within multimedia files.
• Utilize geo-location tools to ascertain physical locations of digital subjects or events.
• Synthesize information from multiple threat feeds to enhance intelligence analysis.
• Develop and present intelligence findings in professional, actionable reports tailored to audience needs.

MCSI is one of the most respected and trusted names in cyber security education and training. Our certifications teach critical skills, knowledge and abilities needed to advance a career in cyber security. Our courses are comprehensive and up-to-date, and our instructors are experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping students learn. MCSI provides the real-world skills and knowledge you need to protect any organization from cyber threats.

• Lab Setup and Virtualization
• Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Fundamentals

  Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Fundamentals are crucial for All Source Analysts as they provide essential skills in collecting and analyzing publicly available information from diverse online sources. OSINT enhances intelligence-gathering capabilities, enabling analysts to uncover valuable insights, identify emerging threats, and understand broader trends relevant to their intelligence assessments.

  OSINT Sock Puppets

  Understanding OSINT sock puppets is important for all source analysts to identify and analyze deceptive online personas used for intelligence gathering.

  Creating Custom Social Media Scrapers

  Developing custom social media scrapers is relevant for all source analysts to collect and analyze data from various social media platforms for intelligence purposes.

  Creating Procedures

  Establishing procedures is crucial for all source analysts to ensure systematic and consistent approaches to information gathering, analysis, and reporting.

  Creating Mindmaps

  Developing mindmaps helps all source analysts visualize and organize complex relationships and data sources, facilitating comprehensive analysis and intelligence synthesis.

  Finding Compromised User Passwords on the Web

  Locating compromised user passwords on the web is relevant for all source analysts to assess potential security risks and gather intelligence on compromised credentials.

  Retrieving User Information from Public Documents

  Extracting user information from public documents is important for all source analysts to gather intelligence from publicly available sources for analysis and reporting.

  Finding Data Breaches

  Identifying data breaches is crucial for all source analysts to monitor and assess potential security threats and vulnerabilities impacting individuals and organizations.

• Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) Concepts and Operations

  Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) concepts and operations are essential for All Source Analysts to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate cyber threats. By applying CTI principles, analysts can anticipate emerging threats, enhance incident response capabilities, and contribute to the overall cybersecurity posture of organizations.

  Threat Intelligence Lifecycle

  Understanding the threat intelligence lifecycle is essential for effective Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) operations, enabling analysts to gather, analyze, and apply intelligence insights strategically.

  Threat Modelling

  Applying threat modeling techniques helps CTI analysts to assess and prioritize threats, enhancing their ability to anticipate and counter potential cyber attacks.

  Footprinting Industries

  Industry footprinting is important for CTI analysts to understand sector-specific vulnerabilities and threat landscape, enabling proactive defense strategies.

  Mapping Organization Attack Surface

  Mapping an organization's attack surface is crucial for CTI operations, providing insights into potential entry points for cyber threats and vulnerabilities.

  Monitoring Network Traffic

  Continuous network traffic monitoring is essential for CTI analysts to detect and respond to suspicious activities and potential security breaches effectively.

  MISP (Malware Information Sharing Platform & Threat Sharing)

  Utilizing MISP facilitates information sharing among CTI analysts and organizations, enhancing collaboration and intelligence dissemination to counter cyber threats.

  Request for Information (RFI) Template

  Developing RFI templates assists CTI analysts in gathering specific intelligence, supporting focused information requests to enhance threat analysis and response.

  Strategically Hypothesizing Threat Actors

  Strategically hypothesizing threat actors helps CTI analysts anticipate adversary behaviors, enabling proactive threat mitigation and intelligence-driven defense.

  Develop a Threat Intelligence Report

  Crafting comprehensive threat intelligence reports is vital for CTI analysts to communicate actionable insights and inform decision-making processes effectively.

  Develop a Threat Actor Card

  Creating threat actor cards assists CTI analysts in profiling threat actors, enhancing understanding and attribution of cyber threats for targeted defense strategies.

  IOC Handling (Indicators of Compromise)

  Effectively handling IOCs is crucial for CTI analysts to identify and respond to active cyber threats, mitigating risks and protecting organizational assets.

• Information Gathering and Analysis

  Information gathering and analysis are crucial for All Source Analysts to gather actionable intelligence and understand the threat landscape, enabling proactive threat mitigation and informed decision-making. It allows analysts to identify vulnerabilities, anticipate adversary tactics, and enhance overall cybersecurity posture by leveraging comprehensive insights derived from diverse data sources.

  Building Advanced Search Engine Queries

  Building advanced search engine queries is vital for All Source Analysts to uncover hidden data and gather targeted information from online sources efficiently.

  Finding Hidden Information Using Search Engines

  Using search engines to find hidden information is crucial for All Source Analysts to discover concealed data and glean insights from various online platforms.

  Finding GPS Coordinates for Locations

  Locating GPS coordinates is important for All Source Analysts to pinpoint specific locations and extract geographical data for analysis.

  Decoding Barcodes

  Decoding barcodes is relevant for All Source Analysts to retrieve information embedded in barcodes, facilitating data collection and analysis.

  Finding Sensitive Information Through Deep Web

  Extracting sensitive information from the deep web is relevant for All Source Analysts to access hidden data sources and gather comprehensive intelligence.

  Finding Compromised User Information

  Identifying compromised user information is important for All Source Analysts to assess security risks and potential threats associated with data breaches.

This course teaches the specific Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Tasks (KSATs) aligned with the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DCWF) as outlined in DoD 8140. By focusing on these critical competencies, the course ensures that you develop the essential capabilities required for various cybersecurity roles within the Department of Defense. This alignment not only guarantees that the training is relevant and comprehensive but also that it prepares you to meet the specific operational needs and standards of the DoD cyber workforce.

• knowledge

  ID	Description
  22	Knowledge of computer networking concepts and protocols, and network security methodologies.
  87	Knowledge of network traffic analysis methods.
  108	Knowledge of risk management processes (e.g., methods for assessing and mitigating risk).
  264	Knowledge of basic physical computer components and architectures, including the functions of various components and peripherals (e.g., CPUs, Network Interface Cards, data storage).
  1158	Knowledge of cybersecurity principles.
  1159	Knowledge of cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
  3106	Knowledge of a wide range of basic communications media concepts and terminology (e.g., computer and telephone networks, satellite, cable, wireless).
  3107	Knowledge of a wide range of concepts associated with websites (e.g., website types, administration, functions, software systems, etc.).
  3129	Knowledge of attack methods and techniques (DDoS, brute force, spoofing, etc.).
  3137	Knowledge of basic malicious activity concepts (e.g., foot printing, scanning and enumeration).
  3154	Knowledge of classification and control markings standards, policies and procedures.
  3177	Knowledge of common computer/network infections (virus, Trojan, etc.) and methods of infection (ports, attachments, etc.).
  3188	Knowledge of computer networking fundamentals (i.e., basic computer components of a network, types of networks, etc.).
  3262	Knowledge of evolving/emerging communications technologies.
  3274	Knowledge of fundamental cyber operations concepts, terminology/lexicon (i.e., environment preparation, cyber attack, cyber defense), principles, capabilities, limitations, and effects.
  3292	Knowledge of how modern digital and telephony networks impact cyber operations.
  3293	Knowledge of how modern wireless communications systems impact cyber operations.
  3298	Knowledge of how to extract, analyze, and use metadata.
  3335	Knowledge of intelligence disciplines.
  3342	Knowledge of intelligence support to planning, execution, and assessment.
  3374	Knowledge of malware.
  3431	Knowledge of OSI model and underlying network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP).
  3441	Knowledge of physical and logical network devices and infrastructure to include hubs, switches, routers, firewalls, etc.
  3539	Knowledge of telecommunications fundamentals.
  3543	Knowledge of the basic structure, architecture, and design of modern communication networks.
  3545	Knowledge of the basics of network security (e.g., encryption, firewalls, authentication, honey pots, perimeter protection).
  3561	Knowledge of the common networking and routing protocols(e.g. TCP/IP), services (e.g., web, mail, DNS), and how they interact to provide network communications.
  3582	Knowledge of the intelligence frameworks, processes, and related systems.
  3584	Knowledge of intelligence preparation of the environment and similar processes.
  3630	Knowledge of the ways in which targets or threats use the Internet.
  3651	Knowledge of what constitutes a “threat” to a network.
  3659	Knowledge of wireless technologies (e.g., cellular, satellite, GSM) to include the basic structure, architecture, and design of modern wireless communications systems.
  6900	Knowledge of specific operational impacts of cybersecurity lapses.
  52	Knowledge of human-computer interaction principles.
  3095	Knowledge of internet network addressing (IP addresses, classless inter-domain routing, TCP/UDP port numbering).
  3098	Knowledge of virtualization products (Vmware, Virtual PC).
  3205	Knowledge of current computer-based intrusion sets.
  3253	Knowledge of encryption algorithms and cyber capabilities/tools (e.g., SSL, PGP).
  3271	Knowledge of internal and external partner cyber operations capabilities and tools.
  3277	Knowledge of general SCADA system components.
  3286	Knowledge of host-based security products and how they affect exploitation and vulnerability.
  3291	Knowledge of how internet applications work (SMTP email, web-based email, chat clients, VOIP).
  3334	Knowledge of intelligence confidence levels.
  3343	Knowledge of cyber intelligence/information collection capabilities and repositories.
  3358	Knowledge of organizational hierarchy and cyber decision making processes.
  3419	Knowledge of organization or partner exploitation of digital networks.
  3446	Knowledge of analytical constructs and their use in assessing the operational environment.
  3460	Knowledge of internal tactics to anticipate and/or emulate threat capabilities and actions.
  3504	Knowledge of threat and/or target systems.
  3527	Knowledge of target development (i.e., concepts, roles, responsibilities, products, etc.).
  3528	Knowledge of specific target identifiers, and their usage.
  3533	Knowledge of target vetting and validation procedures.
  3587	Knowledge of targeting cycles.
  3615	Knowledge of the structure and intent of organization specific plans, guidance and authorizations.

• skills

  ID	Description
  3772	Skill in evaluating information for reliability, validity, and relevance.
  3794	Skill in identifying cyber threats which may jeopardize organization and/or partner interests.
  3844	Skill in preparing and presenting briefings.
  3851	Skill in providing understanding of target or threat systems through the identification and link analysis of physical, functional, or behavioral relationships.
  3876	Skill in writing, reviewing and editing cyber-related Intelligence/assessment products from multiple sources.
  3910	Skill in using Boolean operators to construct simple and complex queries.
  3920	Skill in using multiple analytic tools, databases, and techniques (e.g., Analyst’s Notebook, A-Space, Anchory, M3, divergent/convergent thinking, link charts, matrices, etc.).
  3921	Skill in using multiple search engines (e.g., Google, Yahoo, LexisNexis, DataStar) and tools in conducting open-source searches.
  3938	Skill in utilizing feedback in order to improve processes, products, and services.
  3691	Skill in assessing and/or estimating effects generated during and after cyber operations.
  3704	Skill in conducting non-attributable research.
  3724	Skill in defining and characterizing all pertinent aspects of the operational environment.
  3756	Skill in developing or recommending analytic approaches or solutions to problems and situations for which information is incomplete or for which no precedent exists.
  3788	Skill in identifying alternative analytical interpretations in order to minimize unanticipated outcomes.
  3893	Skill in tailoring analysis to the necessary levels (e.g., classification and organizational).
  3946	Skill in utilizing virtual collaborative workspaces and/or tools (e.g., IWS, VTCs, chat rooms, SharePoint).
  3953A	Skill in providing analysis to aid writing phased after action reports.

• abilities

  ID	Description
  3001	Ability to accurately and completely source all data used in intelligence, assessment and/or planning products.
  3002	Ability to focus research efforts to meet the customer’s decision-making needs.
  3019	Ability to clearly articulate intelligence requirements into well-formulated research questions and data tracking variables for inquiry tracking purposes.
  3022	Ability to communicate complex information, concepts, or ideas in a confident and well-organized manner through verbal, written, and/or visual means.
  3041	Ability to effectively collaborate via virtual teams.
  3042	Ability to evaluate information for reliability, validity, and relevance.
  3043	Ability to evaluate, analyze, and synthesize large quantities of data (which may be fragmented and contradictory) into high quality, fused targeting/intelligence products.
  3047	Ability to function effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  3048	Ability to function in a collaborative environment, seeking continuous consultation with other analysts and experts—both internal and external to the organization—in order to leverage analytical and technical expertise.
  3052	Ability to identify intelligence gaps.
  3073	Ability to recognize and mitigate cognitive biases which may affect analysis.
  3077	Ability to think critically.
  3081	Ability to utilize multiple intelligence sources across all intelligence disciplines.
  3039	Ability to develop or recommend analytic approaches or solutions to problems and situations for which information is incomplete or for which no precedent exists.
  3044	Ability to exercise judgment when policies are not well-defined.
  3074	Ability to recognize and mitigate deception in reporting and analysis.
  3078A	Ability to think like threat actors.
  3079	Ability to understand objectives and effects.

• tasks

  ID	Description
  2028	Answer requests for information.
  2060A	Maintain a common intelligence picture.
  2075	Brief threat and/or target current situations.
  2115	Conduct in-depth research and analysis.
  2429	Generate requests for information.
  2434	Identify threat tactics, and methodologies.
  2603	Monitor operational environment and report on adversarial activities which fulfill leadership’s priority information requirements.
  2771	Provide timely notice of imminent or hostile intentions or activities which may impact organization objectives, resources, or capabilities.
  2059	Provide expertise to course of action development.
  2060	Provide subject matter expertise to the development of a common operational picture.
  2061	Provide subject matter expertise to the development of cyber operations specific indicators.
  2063	Assist in the coordination, validation, and management of all-source collection requirements, plans, and/or activities.
  2068	Assist in the identification of intelligence collection shortfalls.
  2087	Collaborate with intelligence analysts/targeting organizations involved in related areas.
  2195	Maintain awareness of internal and external cyber organization structures, strengths, and employments of staffing and technology.
  2288	Develop information requirements necessary for answering priority information requests.
  2356	Engage customers to understand customers’ intelligence needs and wants.
  2379	Evaluate threat decision-making processes.
  2379A	Identify threat vulnerabilities.
  2441	Identify and evaluate threat critical capabilities, requirements, and vulnerabilities.
  2446	Identify and submit intelligence requirements for the purposes of designating priority information requirements.
  2459	Identify intelligence gaps and shortfalls.
  2593	Monitor and report changes in threat dispositions, activities, tactics, capabilities, objectives, etc. as related to designated cyber operations warning problem sets.
  2594	Monitor and report on validated threat activities.
  2602	Monitor open source websites for hostile content directed towards organizational or partner interests.
  2617	Produce timely, fused, all-source cyber operations intelligence and/or indications and warnings intelligence products (e.g., threat assessments, briefings, intelligence studies, country studies).
  2621	Provide SME and support to planning/developmental forums and working groups as appropriate.
  2730	Provide analyses and support for effectiveness assessment.
  2735	Provide current intelligence support to critical internal/external stakeholders as appropriate.
  2738	Provide evaluation and feedback necessary for improving intelligence production, intelligence reporting, collection requirements, and operations.
  2745	Provide information and assessments for the purposes of informing leadership and customers; developing and refining objectives; supporting operation planning and execution; and assessing the effects of operations.
  2747	Provide input and assist in post-action effectiveness assessments.
  2748	Provide input and assist in the development of plans and guidance.
  2754	Provide intelligence analysis and support to designated exercises, planning activities, and time sensitive operations.
  2767	Provide target recommendations which meet leadership objectives.
  2789	Report intelligence-derived significant network events and intrusions.
  2881	Work closely with planners, intelligence analysts, and collection managers to ensure intelligence requirements and collection plans are accurate and up-to-date.