Cyber Security SOC Analyst

Abstract

In today\'s rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations face an increasing number of cyber threats that jeopardize their sensitive data, operations, and reputation. A Cyber Security Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst plays a critical role in detecting, analyzing, and mitigating cyber threats in real-time. This role involves continuous monitoring of security alerts, incident response, threat intelligence analysis, and ensuring compliance with security policies and frameworks. SOC Analysts leverage advanced security tools such as SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint protection solutions to safeguard organizational assets. Their expertise in log analysis, network traffic monitoring, and threat hunting helps in identifying vulnerabilities and minimizing the risk of cyberattacks. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the role of a SOC Analyst remains pivotal in strengthening an organization’s cybersecurity posture and resilience.

Introduction

Summary:

A Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst is a key cybersecurity professional tasked with monitoring, detecting, and responding to threats within an organization's IT environment. Their work is essential for protecting data, preventing cyberattacks, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They use tools like SIEM, IDS/IPS, and EDR to monitor and manage cyber threats.

Related Work in Banking Security:

In the banking sector, SOCs are vital due to high cyber risk. Prior research focuses on threat intelligence, AI-based detection, real-time monitoring, and regulatory compliance (e.g., PCI DSS, GDPR). Challenges include APTs, insider threats, and evolving attack vectors. Emphasis is placed on automation, machine learning, and behavioral analytics.

Methodology:

The study integrates FortiSIEM, email, and phone communications for incident detection and response. Alerts are prioritized (low via email, high via calls). The methodology includes log analysis, threat containment, and compliance tracking, enhancing coordination and response efficiency.

Implementation Steps:

A structured approach includes:

1. SIEM (FortiSIEM) – For log correlation and threat detection.

2. IDS/IPS – For traffic monitoring and anomaly detection.

3. EDR/XDR – For endpoint-level security and automated response.

4. Threat Intelligence & Hunting – Using tools like MISP and YARA.

5. Incident Response – Managed with platforms like TheHive.

6. Compliance & Reporting – With tools like Nessus and Splunk dashboards.

Key Features of a robust SOC include real-time monitoring, incident response, compliance, automation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Evaluation Metrics:

• MTTD (Mean Time to Detect)

• MTTR (Mean Time to Respond)

• False Positive Rate

• Threat Containment Rate

• SOC Visibility

These metrics help assess the SOC’s performance in detecting and handling cyber threats effectively.

Conclusion

A well-structured Security Operations Center (SOC) is essential for detecting, analyzing, and responding to cyber threats in real-time. By integrating SIEM tools like FortiSIEM, IDS/IPS, threat intelligence, and incident response protocols, SOC analysts can effectively mitigate risks and enhance an organization’s security posture. Regular evaluation through KPIs, maturity models, and red/blue team exercises ensures continuous improvement. With cyber threats evolving rapidly, maintaining a proactive SOC is critical to safeguarding banking and financial institutions from potential cyberattacks.. Futureimprovementswillfocuson: 1) AI and Machine Learning Integration – Enhancing threat detection through automated anomaly detection and predictive analytics. 2) Zero Trust Architecture – Implementing stricter access controls to minimize insider threats and unauthorized access. 3) Cloud Security Expansion – Strengthening SOC capabilities for multi-cloud environments as financial institutions adopt cloud technologies. 4) Automation with SOAR – Increasing the use of Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) to reduce manual efforts and improve response times. 5) Improved Threat Hunting – Advancing proactive security strategies to detect hidden threats before they cause harm. 6) Compliance Adaptation – Keeping up with evolving regulatory requirements such as GDPR, PCI DSS, and upcoming global cybersecurity standards.

References

[1] Stallings, W., & Brown, L. (2018). Computer Security: Principles and Practice (4th ed.). Pearson.Covers fundamental security concepts, including SOC operations, SIEM, and threat intelligence. [2] NIST (2020). Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. National Institute of Standards and Technology.Provides guidelines on cybersecurity frameworks used in SOC evaluations. [3] MITRE ATT&CK Framework. (https://attack.mitre.org/)A widely used knowledge base of adversary tactics and techniques for SOC analysts. [4] Fortinet (2022). FortiSIEM: Next-Gen Security Information and Event Management. Fortinet Whitepaper.Explains how FortiSIEM helps in log management, real-time threat detection, and SOC operations. [5] Gartner (2021). Market Guide for Security Information and Event Management (SIEM). [6] Provides insights into the latest SIEM trends, including tools used in modern SOCs.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Vandan Beladiya, Mihir Sontakke. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.