Cyber Security Incident Responder Onboarding Checklist

Cyber Security Incident Responder Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Cyber Security Incident Responder starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Technology onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Cyber Security Incident Responder, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Cyber Security Incident Responder onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Cyber Security Incident Responder Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new Cyber Security Incident Responder should be provided with a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures related to cybersecurity. This includes understanding the acceptable use of technology resources, incident reporting protocols, and any specific guidelines relevant to the industry. The Human Resources department or a designated cybersecurity manager typically performs this task.

2. Familiarization with the company’s network infrastructure: The Cyber Security Incident Responder needs to become familiar with the company’s network infrastructure, including the layout, architecture, and key components. This task involves understanding the network topology, identifying critical assets, and learning about any existing security controls in place. The IT department or network administrators usually assist in providing this information.

3. Review of incident response plans and playbooks: The new hire should review the company’s incident response plans and playbooks, which outline the step-by-step procedures to be followed during a cybersecurity incident. This task involves understanding the different types of incidents, escalation procedures, communication channels, and the roles and responsibilities of various team members. The cybersecurity team or incident response team lead typically oversees this task.

4. Training on security tools and technologies: The Cyber Security Incident Responder should receive training on the various security tools and technologies used within the company. This includes understanding how to operate and configure intrusion detection systems, firewalls, antivirus software, and other relevant tools. The IT department or the cybersecurity team provides this training, often in collaboration with vendors or external experts.

5. Shadowing experienced incident responders: To gain practical experience and learn from seasoned professionals, the new hire should shadow experienced incident responders during real or simulated incidents. This task involves observing and assisting in the investigation, containment, eradication, and recovery phases of cybersecurity incidents. The cybersecurity team or incident response team lead typically coordinates this task.

6. Collaboration with other teams: The Cyber Security Incident Responder should collaborate with other teams within the company, such as IT, legal, human resources, and communications, to ensure a coordinated response to incidents. This task involves understanding the roles and responsibilities of each team, establishing communication channels, and participating in cross-functional meetings. The cybersecurity team or incident response team lead facilitates this collaboration.

7. Continuous learning and professional development: The new hire should be encouraged to engage in continuous learning and professional development activities to stay updated with the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and technologies. This task involves attending relevant conferences, webinars, and training sessions, as well as obtaining industry certifications. The company’s cybersecurity team or the employee’s direct supervisor supports and encourages this task.

8. Documentation and reporting: The Cyber Security Incident Responder should maintain accurate and detailed documentation of all incidents, including the timeline, actions taken, and lessons learned. This task involves creating incident reports, updating incident response playbooks, and sharing knowledge with the wider cybersecurity team. The cybersecurity team or incident response team lead oversees this task.

9. Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements: The new hire should familiarize themselves with the legal and regulatory requirements relevant to the company’s industry and ensure compliance during incident response activities. This task involves understanding data protection laws, industry-specific regulations, and any contractual obligations related to cybersecurity. The legal or compliance department, in collaboration with the cybersecurity team, assists in ensuring compliance.

10. Building relationships with external stakeholders: The Cyber Security Incident Responder should establish and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, such as law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity vendors, and industry peers. This task involves attending industry events, participating in information sharing forums, and collaborating with external parties during incident response activities. The cybersecurity team or incident response team lead facilitates this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Cyber Security Incident Responder checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Cyber Security Incident Responder up to speed and working well in your Technology team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.