What is an important first step in responding to a security incident?

Documenting the incident is a crucial first step in responding to a security incident because it lays the foundation for all subsequent actions. Proper documentation ensures that there is a clear record of what happened, when it happened, and the context in which it occurred. This information is vital for conducting a thorough investigation, understanding the scope of the incident, and identifying any patterns or causes.

Having a detailed account enables security teams to analyze the incident more effectively and can also help in reviewing and improving the incident response process. Additionally, documentation may be required for compliance with regulations or organizational policies, and it can serve as important evidence if legal actions are pursued later on.

In contrast, while determining employee involvement, identifying financial losses, and reporting to law enforcement are all important aspects of managing a security incident, they typically follow the initial step of documenting what has occurred. Without a proper record of the incident, these subsequent actions may lack the necessary context or accuracy to be effective.