Leidos has unveiled a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool designed to assist federal cybersecurity teams in managing and responding to cyber alerts. The system, known as UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation, introduces a novel approach to automating investigative processes while maintaining human oversight and documentation of all actions taken.
Automated Investigation with Human Oversight
The AI tool operates by deploying autonomous agents that continuously monitor and analyze security alerts. These agents are capable of gathering contextual data from various sources, synthesizing findings into actionable insights, and presenting recommendations for human review. The system allows organizations to define the extent of its authority—whether it is limited to investigative tasks or permitted to suggest responses or execute actions within predefined boundaries.
Operational Flexibility Through Configuration
One of the key features of UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation is its configurability. Customers can tailor the tool’s permissions to align with their specific operational needs and governance frameworks. This flexibility ensures that agencies retain control over how much autonomy the AI system has, which is crucial for maintaining compliance and minimizing risk in sensitive environments.
Record-Keeping and Transparency
The tool emphasizes transparency by maintaining a detailed record of all activities it performs, including the data sources it examines, the conclusions it draws, and any actions it proposes or executes. This feature is particularly valuable for audit trails and regulatory compliance, ensuring that every step of the investigation process is documented and traceable.
Interoperability with Existing Security Systems
Leidos has designed UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation to integrate seamlessly with existing security infrastructure. The tool can connect with a range of systems already in use by federal agencies, allowing for a smooth transition without the need for extensive overhauls or replacements. This interoperability is essential for organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture without disrupting current workflows.
Deployment Tailored to Organizational Needs
The implementation of UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation is customized to each customer’s technology stack and governance requirements. This tailored approach ensures that the tool can be deployed effectively across diverse environments, from small agencies to large federal departments with complex IT infrastructures.
Part of a Broader Cybersecurity Suite
The AI tool is part of Leidos’ UpHold Effect platform, which also includes cloud protection services, threat hunting capabilities, and cyber deception technologies. This integrated approach enables agencies to address cybersecurity threats from multiple angles, combining automation with human expertise for more comprehensive defense strategies.
Procurement Considerations for Federal Agencies
For federal security teams considering the adoption of UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation, several procurement factors must be evaluated. These include the compatibility of the tool with existing systems, the level of customization required to meet specific operational needs, and the availability of support and training resources. Agencies should also assess how well the tool aligns with their cybersecurity policies and regulatory requirements.
Future Implications for Cybersecurity Automation
The introduction of UpHold Effect Agentic SOC Automation marks a significant step forward in the automation of cyber threat response. As AI technologies continue to evolve, the ability to balance automated decision-making with human oversight will become increasingly important for maintaining secure and compliant operations across federal agencies.