So you've been hacked, now what?

1. Verify that an incident has taken or is taking place.

2. Identify its scope and impact (is it a customer credit card database hack with data stolen or just defacement of a little used information portal).

3. Capture evidence of the attack and any ongoing activity (forensically image workstations or servers, take live analysis of compromised systems, collect logs for network infrastructure."

4. Stop any ongoing compromise.

5. Determine the extent of the damage and plan repair activity.

6. Determine the attack vector and plan remediation of defences.

7. Implement security updates to prevent re-compromise (apply patches, harden vulnerable server, improve firewall rules etc).

8. Implement repairs and restore service.

9. Analyse and investigate available evidence to determine attack timeline and confirm all compromised areas have been identified.

10. Compile evidence into report and pursue legal action.

Disclosure checklist (supplied by Prof John Walker of the ISACA):

If the breach has any actual, or potential to impact on Government Sensitive, or Marked Information Assets then call the relevant agency.

If Personal Information has been impacted which are subject to the controls under the Data Protection Act then consider the reporting channels.

If you have a Corporate Communications Division then consult with them so as to prepare for any potential of adverse reports, or press inquiries.

Always be aware of the relevant local, and International laws and legislations, and their impact on the situation. Report in accord under the guidance of your Corporate Communications Division.