Risk Identification Using Threat Diagrams

Abstract

This chapter presents Step 5 of the CORAS method, which is the risk identification. To identify risks, CORAS makes use of structured brainstorming. Structured brainstorming is a step-by-step walkthrough of the target of analysis and is carried out as a workshop led by the analysts. The main idea of structured brainstorming is that since the workshop participants represent different competences, backgrounds and interests, they will view the target from different perspectives and consequently identify more, and possibly other, risks than individuals or a more homogeneous group would have managed. The risk identification involves a systematic identification of threats, unwanted incidents, threat scenarios and vulnerabilities with respect to the identified assets. The activities are supported by the CORAS language, and the results are documented on-the-fly by means of CORAS threat diagrams.