312-85 Exam Dumps : Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA)

Passive DNS monitoring involves collecting data about DNS queries and responses without actively querying DNS servers, thereby not altering or interfering with DNS traffic. This technique allows analysts to track changes in DNS records and observe patterns that may indicate malicious activity. In the scenario described, Enrique is employing passive DNS monitoring by using a recursive DNS server to log the responses received from name servers, storing these logs in a central database for analysis. This approach is effective for identifying malicious domains, mapping malware campaigns, and understanding threat actors' infrastructure without alerting them to the fact that they are being monitored. This method is distinct from active techniques such as DNS interrogation or zone transfers, which involve sending queries to DNS servers, and dynamic DNS, which refers to the automatic updating of DNS records.

The key factor that enables a structured and automated process for investigating attacks, processing intelligence, and integrating it with internal controls is Workflow.

In a Threat Intelligence Platform (TIP), the workflow defines a structured sequence of steps or processes that analysts follow to collect, process, analyze, and act on intelligence data. It ensures that:

Intelligence is processed consistently and efficiently.

Alerts, investigations, and responses follow predefined automation rules.

Internal controls are linked with threat feeds for faster detection and mitigation.

A well-designed workflow also supports investigation automation, report generation, and integration with other security systems such as SIEM, SOAR, and EDR tools.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Scoring: Refers to prioritizing or rating intelligence based on risk or severity but does not automate investigations.

B. Search: Involves querying the intelligence database for specific data but lacks structured investigation processes.

D. Open: Indicates an open architecture or API support, not workflow automation or process structuring.

Conclusion:

The correct factor that ensures structured, automated investigations in a Threat Intelligence Platform is Workflow.

Final Answer: C. Workflow

Explanation Reference (Based on CTIA Study Concepts):

CTIA defines workflow as a key element in threat intelligence platforms that organizes and automates intelligence-driven investigations across multiple security controls.

In the Threat Hunting Maturity Model (HMM), Level 2: Procedural represents an organization that has developed a structured but partially manual threat-hunting capability.

At this stage, organizations:

Use threat intelligence from open and closed sources to guide hunts.

Search for anomalies or suspicious activity across their network.

Employ open-source tools and basic scripts for analysis.

Depend on analysts following documented procedures rather than automated systems.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

Level 1: Minimal: Organization relies solely on reactive security measures and lacks dedicated hunting capabilities.

Level 3: Innovative: Introduces automation and advanced analytics to support hunts.

Level 4: Leading: Represents full maturity with proactive, automated, intelligence-driven hunting integrated across all defenses.

Conclusion:

The organization described is operating at Level 2: Procedural in the Threat Hunting Maturity Model.

Final Answer: A. Level 2: Procedural

Explanation Reference (Based on CTIA Study Concepts):

According to CTIA’s framework on “Threat Hunting Maturity Levels,” Level 2 involves intelligence-driven, manual hunting using open-source tools and structured procedures.