What is the appropriate response to a denial of service attack?

Reporting a denial of service attack as a cyber incident is the appropriate response because such attacks can have significant implications for the security and availability of systems. By officially acknowledging the attack, it allows for a coordinated response, facilitates communication with necessary stakeholders, and ensures that the incident is carefully investigated to understand its impact and prevent future occurrences.

Denial of service attacks can disrupt services, potentially jeopardizing safety operations and access to critical systems used by marine safety personnel. By reporting the incident, it ensures that a comprehensive analysis is conducted, which can lead to improved defenses and resilience in the face of future attacks. Additionally, documenting the incident may also help fulfill regulatory or organizational requirements for reporting cybersecurity issues.

Handling the situation internally without reporting could conceal the severity of the attack and lead to unaddressed vulnerabilities. Similarly, considering it a minor issue or ignoring it altogether risks overlooking potential long-term effects on operations, including the possibility of repeat incidents or more extensive damage.