Introduction
ISO 27035 incident investigation is a structured approach designed to help organisations detect, analyse & learn from Information Security Incidents. It focuses on understanding not only what happened but also why it happened by uncovering root causes & systemic weaknesses. This Framework enables organisations to improve their Information Security Management System [ISMS] by applying corrective measures & strengthening preventive controls.
ISO 27035 comprises three (3) parts that guide the entire incident management lifecycle-from detection to post-incident learning. It provides a standardised methodology that aligns with ISO 27001 & complements Frameworks such as NIST SP 800-61. By following ISO 27035, organisations can reduce recurrence of incidents, enhance Stakeholder confidence & demonstrate compliance with international Best Practices.
Understanding ISO 27035 Incident Investigation
The ISO 27035 incident investigation process defines how to systematically manage & investigate Security Incidents within an organisation. It helps teams differentiate between minor events & significant breaches requiring in-depth investigation.
Part One (1) of ISO 27035 establishes principles & processes, while Part Two (2) provides guidelines for planning & preparing an Incident Response. Part Three (3) offers detailed techniques for conducting investigations, identifying causes & improving overall resilience.
The Importance of Incident Investigation in Information Security
Incident investigation is a critical component of a mature ISMS. Without it, organisations Risk addressing symptoms rather than causes. The ISO 27035 incident investigation methodology ensures that all incidents are recorded, analysed & used to enhance future defences.
Through this approach, teams can identify Vulnerabilities in systems, processes or human behaviour that may have contributed to an incident. Over time, continuous application of ISO 27035 improves response capability & builds organisational knowledge.
Core Phases of ISO 27035 Incident Investigation
An ISO 27035 incident investigation typically follows five (5) key phases:
- Detection & Reporting: Identifying & logging potential incidents.
- Assessment & Decision: Evaluating severity, scope & potential impact.
- Response: Containing & Mitigating Threats.
- Investigation & Analysis: Determining causes, analysing Evidence & recording findings.
- Lessons Learned: Implementing improvements & updating Security Policies.
Each phase ensures that incidents are managed systematically, with clear roles, responsibilities & documentation.
Identifying Root Causes & Systemic Gaps
The most valuable output of ISO 27035 incident investigation is uncovering root causes. Root cause analysis (RCA) goes beyond immediate triggers to identify underlying factors such as procedural gaps, insufficient training or inadequate controls.
Techniques like the “Five Whys” or “Fishbone Diagram” are commonly applied to map contributing elements. By addressing these root causes, organisations prevent recurrence & strengthen their ISMS foundation.
In many cases, systemic gaps such as poor asset management or lack of incident categorisation emerge as key findings. Correcting these areas enhances long-term resilience.
Tools & Techniques Used in ISO 27035 Incident Investigation
A range of tools can support ISO 27035 incident investigation, including:
- Log Analysis Platforms (e.g., SIEM solutions) for identifying anomalies
- Digital Forensics Tools for gathering & preserving Evidence
- Threat Intelligence Feeds for contextual awareness
- Incident Tracking Systems for recording & managing case progress
When these tools are integrated with ISO 27035 procedures, investigations become more reliable, traceable & defensible.
Challenges & Limitations of ISO 27035
Despite its advantages, ISO 27035 incident investigation faces several challenges. These include resource constraints, lack of skilled personnel & inconsistent data logging practices. Some organisations also struggle to maintain post-incident documentation or measure long-term improvements.
However, these limitations can be mitigated through training, automation & executive support. Implementing a culture of transparency ensures that lessons are not only documented but also acted upon.
Benefits of Implementing ISO 27035 Incident Investigation
Adopting ISO 27035 incident investigation brings measurable benefits:
- Enhanced Preparedness: Teams respond faster & more accurately.
- Compliance Assurance: Supports ISO 27001 control A.16 requirements.
- Improved Decision-Making: Evidence-based insights guide Corrective Actions.
- Knowledge Retention: Incident data becomes a learning asset.
- Stakeholder Confidence: Demonstrates a proactive security posture.
By institutionalising ISO 27035, organisations build both technical & cultural resilience against future incidents.
Takeaways
- ISO 27035 provides a structured & repeatable method for managing Security Incidents.
- Root cause analysis is central to preventing recurrence.
- Continuous Improvement depends on learning from every investigation.
- Integrating ISO 27035 with an ISMS strengthens Governance & accountability.
FAQ
What is ISO 27035 incident investigation?
It is a structured method for identifying, analysing & learning from Information Security Incidents to improve organisational security.
How does ISO 27035 relate to ISO 27001?
ISO 27035 supports ISO 27001 by providing practical steps for managing & investigating Security Incidents under control A.16.
What are the key benefits of applying ISO 27035?
Key benefits include improved Incident Response, better documentation, compliance & reduced recurrence of similar incidents.
What are common challenges in ISO 27035 implementation?
Challenges include lack of training, resource limitations & incomplete data capture during incident handling.
How does ISO 27035 support root cause analysis?
It provides structured methods for tracing underlying causes through Evidence-based analysis, enabling long-term corrective measures.
Which tools can support ISO 27035 incident investigation?
Tools such as SIEM, forensics software & case management platforms support investigation, Evidence collection & reporting.
Why is documentation important in ISO 27035?
Documentation ensures accountability, traceability & knowledge sharing across teams for future incident prevention.
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