UN Launches UNIDIR Cyber-Attack Framework to Simplify Cyber Attack Analysis

The United Nations (UN) has launched a new cybersecurity assessment tool called the UNIDIR Intrusion Path framework, designed to help governments and non-technical stakeholders better understand cyber-attacks. This framework is part of a broader effort to support global peace and stability in the digital world.

Developed by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), the Intrusion Path framework complements well-known models such as the MITRE ATT&CK framework and the Cyber Kill Chain. It provides a simplified view of how cyber threats move through different parts of an IT network. The aim is to make complex cybersecurity concepts easier to grasp, especially for diplomats, policymakers, and others who may not have a technical background

Simplifying Cybersecurity for Better Cyber Diplomacy

With cyber-attacks becoming more frequent and more dangerous, the UN believes that better tools are needed to help countries respond effectively. In a statement, the UN said:

“As malicious activities in the ICT environment increase and pose growing threats to international peace and stability, it is essential to equip policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders with tools to understand, inform, and act for a more transparent, stable, and peaceful digital space. We hope that the UNIDIR Intrusion Path will contribute to this end.”

The framework breaks down the network into three key layers to visualize where threats can appear and how defenses can be applied. These layers are:

1. Outside the Perimeter

2. On the Perimeter

3. Inside the Perimeter

Each layer highlights the potential actions of cyber attackers as well as the possible defense measures that can be taken by cybersecurity teams.

Three Layers of the UNIDIR Intrusion Path

1. Outside the Perimeter
This layer refers to systems, websites, and data sources that lie beyond an organization’s control. Examples include public websites, social media platforms, and even the dark web. Hackers often use these spaces for reconnaissance, to gather information about their targets before launching an attack.

2. On the Perimeter
This is the boundary between the internal network and the outside world. It includes security tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and email filters. It’s the first line of defense and is often targeted by attackers trying to break into a network.

3. Inside the Perimeter
Once attackers breach the perimeter, they enter the internal network. This layer contains sensitive data, devices, and operational systems that are critical to the organization. If attackers reach this stage, they can cause serious harm, such as stealing confidential information or disrupting operations.

The UNIDIR Intrusion Path model outlines how cybercriminals operate across each of these layers and offers recommendations on how defenders can monitor and respond effectively.

How the Framework Helps with Modern Threats

The Intrusion Path framework has already been used in recent UN research published in December 2024. The study focused on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the behavior of both attackers and defenders. AI is being used to automate attacks, find system weaknesses, and bypass security tools. On the other hand, defenders are also using AI to detect threats faster and respond more efficiently.

By using the Intrusion Path model, researchers were able to better understand how these technologies influence cyber-attacks at different network layers. This makes the framework a valuable tool for both current and future cyber threat analysis.