Modus operandi, often abbreviated as MO, refers to the characteristic method or pattern that a criminal group or individual uses to carry out cyberattacks or other illicit activities. In cybersecurity, analyzing a threat actor's modus operandi helps professionals identify, predict, and respond to potential threats by recognizing recurring techniques, tools, and procedures. This pattern can include specific malware, phishing strategies, social engineering tactics, or any consistent approach used during an attack. Understanding the MO assists in attributing attacks to certain groups and strengthening defense mechanisms against future incidents.