Network eBPF logic¶
WHAT¶
An invasion detection tool like Jibril (Audit Record Generation and Utilization System) is designed to monitor and analyze network flows to detect potential security threats or unauthorized activities. It operates by capturing network traffic data across various layers of the OSI model—specifically Layer 2 (Data Link), Layer 3 (Network), Layer 4 (Transport), and Layer 7 (Application). By scrutinizing all network flows associated with any task executed over these layers, Jibril can identify patterns indicative of malicious activities.
HOW¶
Jibril functions by continuously capturing packet data transmitted over a network and converting these packets into flow records. These flow records are then analyzed against predefined security rules and patterns known to be malicious. The key processes involved include:
- Data Capture: Jibril uses packet-sniffing technologies to intercept all data packets traveling over the network.
- Flow Generation: Each captured packet is processed to extract relevant data, which is then aggregated into flows. A flow in this context represents a sequence of packets sharing common attributes (e.g., same source/destination IP, protocol type).
- Data Analysis: Flows are analyzed in real-time or near-real-time against a database of known threat signatures, suspicious patterns, and heuristic rules. This analysis can involve deep packet inspection at Layer 7 to inspect payloads for specific keywords or anomalies.
- Action Execution: If a flow matches any known criteria for malicious activity, Jibril can trigger alerts or directly block the traffic. Actions might include logging the event, notifying administrators, or integrating with other security measures like firewalls or intrusion prevention systems to mitigate the threat.
WHERE¶
Jibril operates within a network environment at strategic points where it can effectively monitor inbound and outbound traffic. This placement is typically at the demarcation points between different network segments such as the edges of corporate networks, data centers, or cloud environments. It is crucial that Jibril has visibility into all traffic entering or leaving these points to ensure comprehensive monitoring.
WHY¶
The primary motivation for using tools like Jibril for invasion detection is to protect information systems from unauthorized access, data breaches, service disruptions, and other security threats that could compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of networked resources.
- Proactive Security Posture: By monitoring all layers of network communication, Jibril can identify and respond to threats in real time before they cause significant damage.
- Compliance and Forensics: Many organizations are subject to regulatory requirements that mandate continuous monitoring of network traffic; tools like Jibril help in maintaining compliance with such regulations.
- Detailed Network Visibility: Analyzing traffic across multiple layers provides a detailed view of what is happening on the network, enabling more accurate detection of sophisticated attacks that might not be visible with less thorough monitoring techniques.
- Adaptability: Since Jibril analyzes patterns in network flows against a database of known issues as well as heuristic rules, it adapts over time as new threats emerge and existing ones evolve.
CONCLUSION¶
In summary, runtime invasion detection tools like Jibril are essential components in modern cybersecurity strategies due to their ability to provide detailed insights into potentially harmful activities across multiple layers of network protocols efficiently and effectively.