Who Is Responsible for Following the Incident Response Procedure?

Who Is Responsible for the Incident Response Procedure?

The responsibility for executing the Incident Response Procedure typically falls on a dedicated team known as the Incident Response Team (IRT) or Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT). This team is specifically trained to handle cybersecurity incidents efficiently and systematically.

Key Members of the Incident Response Team

The composition of the IRT or CSIRT varies depending on the organization’s size and the nature of the incident, but generally includes:

• IT Professionals – Responsible for identifying and addressing technical vulnerabilities, restoring systems, and ensuring operational continuity.

• Cybersecurity Experts – Lead the technical investigation, threat analysis, and implementation of containment and eradication measures.

• Legal Representatives – Ensure that all actions comply with laws, regulations, and reporting requirements. They also help manage legal exposure or liability.

• Human Resources (HR) – Involved when an internal employee may be responsible or affected, especially in cases of insider threats or policy violations.

• Public Relations or Communications – Manage external communication, media inquiries, and protect the organization's reputation during and after the incident.

Collaborative Responsibility

While the core IRT or CSIRT manages the response process, collaboration with other departments is often essential for a comprehensive approach. Cross-functional coordination ensures all aspects of the incident—technical, legal, operational, and reputational—are addressed properly.