Which step of the cyber kill chain involves seeking information about weaknesses with people and technology at the target organization?

The step of the cyber kill chain that involves seeking information about weaknesses within the target organization, particularly concerning people and technology, is reconnaissance. This phase is crucial for attackers, as it involves gathering intelligence that can be used to identify vulnerabilities in systems, processes, and human behavior that could be exploited later on.

During reconnaissance, attackers may utilize various methods, such as social engineering, scanning, and researching publicly available information, to build a profile of the target. This helps them understand potential entry points and weaknesses that can be leveraged in subsequent stages of an attack. The data collected during this phase allows attackers to tailor their strategies to maximize the chances of success in later stages, such as weaponization and exploitation.

By emphasizing the importance of reconnaissance, cybersecurity professionals can develop stronger defenses by identifying and mitigating potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. This proactive approach is essential in modern cybersecurity practices to protect against sophisticated attacks.