What does "incident response" specifically refer to?

Incident response specifically refers to managing and mitigating security incidents that occur. It encompasses the processes, procedures, and actions taken by an organization to prepare for, detect, analyze, and respond to security breaches or threats. The goal of incident response is to effectively handle the situation to minimize damage and recover as quickly as possible, while also safeguarding the organization’s assets and data.

This process includes planning and developing specific strategies to address potential incidents, coordinating response efforts among various stakeholders, and ensuring that the organization is capable of responding to and recovering from incidents efficiently. By focusing on the management and mitigation aspect, incident response ensures a structured approach rather than a reactive or haphazard one, which is crucial for maintaining security in a constantly evolving threat landscape.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of incident response. Ignoring safety protocols and reacting without planning fail to recognize the importance of preparation and proactive measures, while documenting past incidents, though valuable for learning and improvement, does not constitute the active process of responding to current incidents.