Indicators of compromise (IOCs) are used to describe what?

Indicators of compromise (IOCs) refer to specific evidence or signs that suggest a potential breach or unauthorized access to a system. This includes various types of data points, such as unique patterns of behavior, files, or network activity that can be correlated with a security incident.

In this context, the correct answer highlights the signs that point to unauthorized users having accessed a system. This can include unusual login patterns, unfamiliar IP addresses, or the presence of malware, all of which serve as key indicators used by forensic analysts and cybersecurity professionals to diagnose potential security incidents and assess the integrity of information systems.

By examining these indicators, organizations can better respond to intrusions, mitigate damages, and improve their security posture. Other options are more generalized or pertain to different aspects of system performance and monitoring that do not specifically indicate unauthorized access.