2024.10.04

Improving Security with Real Human Input

Because machine learning can't do it all on its own

SIEM platforms, intrusion detection systems, and behavioral analytics tools claim to flag unusual behavior patterns. However, without human insights, these systems often lack the context to differentiate between routine activities and potential threats. As a result, security teams must manually sort through alerts, which slows down response times, drains resources, and kills morale.

For example, an employee accessing sensitive files at an unusual hour might trigger an alert in an SIEM platform. Without input from the employee—who could be working late to meet a deadline or collaborating with an overseas team—this alert could lead to unnecessary investigations. Effective security requires real-time context that captures the intent behind activities, not just the actions themselves. That’s where Crowdalert comes in.

Adding Human Feedback for Accurate Threat Detection

Incorporating user feedback into security workflows provides insights that data alone can’t. Human input clarifies whether actions are intended or unexpected. When a user is prompted to verify unfamiliar activities, like logging in from a new location or requesting elevated permissions, this confirmation can quickly determine if further investigation is needed.

Crowdalert enhances this process by prompting users in real-time when unusual behavior is detected. When users verify or flag activities, this feedback helps prioritize and enrich alerts, enabling security teams to act swiftly and with informed judgment. This human-in-the-loop approach combines automated speed with the invaluable context of human insight, improving response accuracy and reducing the need for repeated manual checks.

Reducing Alert Fatigue in SecOps Teams

Excessive notifications can lead to alert fatigue, causing decision paralysis among security teams. Without prioritization or context—especially when team members are overwhelmed or burned out—genuine threats may go unnoticed. Human feedback helps filter out false positives and enriches alerts with critical details.

Crowdalert alleviates alert fatigue by allowing teams to prioritize threats effectively and focus on real risks instead of sifting through irrelevant notifications. By integrating user feedback into its real-time identity mapping, Crowdalert offers a comprehensive view of each user’s recent actions across systems. This optimized process allows teams to assess alerts accurately, directing their energy toward high-priority issues.

Combining Automation with Human Insights for Smarter Security

While algorithms can identify abnormal activities, understanding the true intent behind those actions often requires human insight. Security is not just about spotting anomalies. It’s also about interpreting user behavior to identify patterns that may signal which actions are intentional or suspicious. By blending data-driven detection with user feedback, organizations combine the best of machine learning with human judgment, leading to fewer missed threats and quicker responses.

This can be achieved through workflows that allow users to provide context when notified or through real-time prompts for quick verification. By incorporating user feedback, Crowdalert ensures that alerts carry the necessary context, saving time and enhancing accuracy.

Cultivating a Security-First Mindset

Engaging employees in the security process gives everyone a shared responsibility for safeguarding the organization. When users understand the importance of their input and the potential risks of their actions, they are more likely to report unusual activities and adhere to security best practices. Crowdalert facilitates this engagement by integrating with communication tools like Slack to notify users of suspicious activity. Quick feedback from users provides security teams with vital insights, improving overall decision-making.

Enhancing Security with a Balanced Approach

Blending automation with human insights enables organizations to adopt a more precise and resilient security strategy. By enhancing data-driven alerts with human feedback, security teams can respond faster, minimizing unnecessary alerts.

Data is powerful. However, real human input is crucial for identifying genuine threats and alleviating the burden on security teams. By combining automated detection with user insights, Crodwalert helps you achieve a more accurate and effective method for safeguarding your systems and protecting your data.