AI Prompts Cheatsheet for Incident Response

📱 Mobile Security Tips

Sarah Chen — iOS Security Specialist

Why AI Changes the Game for Incident Response

In the fast-paced realm of cybersecurity, swift and effective incident response is crucial. AI, particularly large language models like ChatGPT and Claude, can significantly enhance incident response capabilities by offering analysis, generating reports, and even simulating attacks. By leveraging AI tools, security teams can improve their response time and accuracy, leading to more effective security operations.

Before You Start: How to Set Context Properly

Setting context is key when using AI tools to ensure relevant responses. Clearly define the scope of your query and provide sufficient background information. This not only guides the AI but also enhances the quality of the output.

Core Prompts Cheatsheet

“Provide a step-by-step incident response plan for a ransomware attack targeting a corporation, including immediate actions and long-term strategies.”

What it does: This prompt outlines structured steps to tackle ransomware attacks.

When to use it: In the face of a ransomware incident or as part of a preparedness exercise.

How to customize it: Adjust the context by specifying the industry or organization size.

“Summarize the main findings of a recent data breach incident report and suggest actionable improvements with respect to cybersecurity policies.”

What it does: This prompt summarizes a breach incident report while providing suggestions for policy enhancements.

When to use it: After a breach has occurred, to analyze past incidents.

How to customize it: Include the specific incident or report link to get tailored insights.

“Generate a list of potential indicators of compromise (IOCs) from a given dataset of network logs related to a suspected breach.”

What it does: Extracts possible IOCs from network logs for deeper analysis.

When to use it: When analyzing network logs for signs of compromise.

How to customize it: Provide specific details about the logs or IOCs you are investigating.

“Outline a communication plan for responding to an incident that includes key stakeholders and message templates.”

What it does: This prompt helps create a structured communication roadmap during incidents.

When to use it: Before or during a critical incident to ensure clear messaging.

How to customize it: Insert the names of your organization and stakeholders for precision.

“Simulate a phishing attack scenario and create a checklist of best practices to train employees on detecting phishing attempts.”

What it does: Generates a phishing simulation and training material to help improve employee awareness.

When to use it: To prepare training sessions related to social engineering tactics.

How to customize it: Specify the workforce type or industry for relevant training tactics.

Weak vs Strong Prompt Examples

❌ Weak: “Tell me about an incident response plan.”
âś… Strong: “Provide a detailed incident response plan for a DDoS attack on an e-commerce website including preparation, detection, and recovery steps.”

Advanced Prompt Techniques

Incorporating advanced techniques can enhance the effectiveness of your prompts:

  • Role Prompting: Frame the prompt as a specific role (e.g., “You are a seasoned cybersecurity analyst. Explain…”).
  • Chain-of-Thought: Encourage step-by-step reasoning (e.g., “Why is X a critical part of incident recovery? Explain your reasoning.”).
  • Few-Shot Examples: Provide few examples within the prompt to guide the AI’s response format.
  • Output Formatting: Specify the desired output type (e.g., “List in bullet points” or “Create a report format”).

Claude vs ChatGPT: Which Works Better For This

Both Claude and ChatGPT perform well, but they have unique attributes:

  • ChatGPT: Often excels in generating detailed narratives, making it suitable for crafting reports and plans.
  • Claude: Works efficiently with concise prompts and is great for quick answers and structured outputs.

Depending on the need—whether depth or brevity—one may be more suitable than the other.

Tips for Getting Consistent Results

  • Be Specific: The more precise your prompt, the better the response.
  • Iterative Refinement: Adjust and clarify prompts based on initial responses to fine-tune results.
  • Set Context: Provide necessary background information to anchor the AI’s understanding.

Quick Reference: All Prompts in One Place

  • “Provide a step-by-step incident response plan for a ransomware attack targeting a corporation, including immediate actions and long-term strategies.”
  • “Summarize the main findings of a recent data breach incident report and suggest actionable improvements with respect to cybersecurity policies.”
  • “Generate a list of potential indicators of compromise (IOCs) from a given dataset of network logs related to a suspected breach.”
  • “Outline a communication plan for responding to an incident that includes key stakeholders and message templates.”
  • “Simulate a phishing attack scenario and create a checklist of best practices to train employees on detecting phishing attempts.”