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In cybersecurity, the acronym IOC stands for "Indicator of Compromise." This term refers to specific artifacts observed on a network or in operating system files that indicate a potential breach or malicious activity. IOCs can include a variety of data points such as hash values for known malware files, IP addresses linked to malicious activities, file paths, or unusual patterns of behavior that are associated with cyber threats. By identifying and analyzing IOCs, cybersecurity professionals can detect breaches, respond to incidents, and strengthen defenses against further attacks.

This concept is essential for threat detection and incident response, as it allows security teams to quickly identify and act upon signs of compromise, mitigating potential damage to the organization. The understanding of IOCs is a fundamental aspect of proactive cybersecurity measures and plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of systems and data.